Apple enthusiasts eagerly awaiting a more budget-friendly iPhone option may have their wishes granted. Recent reports indicate that the fourth-generation iPhone SE could launch as early as early 2025. This would mark a significant gap since the iPhone SE 3's release in 2022.

iPhone SE 4 Might Come By Next Year

According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple is planning to release the iPhone SE 4 in the first quarter of 2025, marking the first new SE model since the iPhone SE 3 debuted in 2022.

Gurman reports that the upcoming iPhone SE 4 will closely resemble the iPhone 14, featuring a sleek design and a more vibrant OLED display that spans the entire device. Although pricing details remain unknown, if Apple can keep the cost under $500, the iPhone SE 4 could become one of the best budget-friendly smartphones available.

Enhanced Performance with Apple Intelligence and A17 Chip

Since the Cupertino giant already announced that Apple Intelligence is coming on iOS 18.1, we are expecting to see it becoming available for the upcoming handsets including the iPhone SE 4.

The said smartphone will likely be compatible with Apple Intelligence, Apple's cutting-edge AI technology. This addition would set the iPhone SE 4 apart from its predecessors and make it a highly desirable option for those seeking advanced features at a lower price point.

To support Apple Intelligence, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to come equipped with at least 8GB of RAM and the powerful A17 chip, which was first introduced in the iPhone 15.

Apple Intelligence promises to bring a host of upgrades to any device capable of running it, and the iPhone SE 4 could be no exception. One of the most notable enhancements is an upgraded Siri that can engage in more natural, context-aware conversations and understand on-screen content.

Apple Intelligence introduces innovative image-generation tools, including Genmoji, a feature that allows users to create personalized emojis. However, it's worth noting that some AI-powered features may eventually require a subscription, possibly bundled within Apple's premium Apple One service.

Rumored Upgrades: Camera, Connectivity, and Action Button

Speculation surrounding the iPhone SE 4 also hints at several significant upgrades over the iPhone SE 3. One of the most talked-about enhancements is the possibility of a 48MP main camera, a substantial improvement from the 12MP camera found in the SE 3. Additionally, rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will transition from a Lightning connector to a USB-C port, aligning with Apple's recent move toward universal charging standards.

Another exciting potential feature, according to Tom's Guide, is the solid-state Action button, similar to what's found on the iPhone 15 Pro, which could offer new ways to interact with the device.

Balancing Features and Affordability

Affordable smartphones play a vital role in the mobile phone market by delivering essential features without breaking the bank. While the inclusion of Apple Intelligence in the iPhone SE 4 is an exciting development, Apple must ensure that this added functionality does not come with a steep price increase.

Maintaining a balance between affordability and advanced features will be crucial for the iPhone SE 4 to succeed in the competitive budget smartphone segment.

Regardless, if the iPhone SE 4 will be released by next year, many people would still prefer to see the hyped iPhone 17 Air. However, the latter needs to live up to its name if it wants to impress more customers in the next few months.