The highly anticipated launch of the Apple iPhone 16 is set to occur in just one month. The extensive list of potential features, which includes Apple Intelligence, has sparked significant excitement among many for this forthcoming device. However, some consumers are more eager for the release of a different iPhone model, particularly the fourth-generation iPhone SE, which is rumored to be in development and expected to launch in March 2025. Apple typically releases new products between mid-March and mid-April, encompassing iPhone SE models, new iPads, MacBooks, and Macs, with the flagship iPhones usually debuting in September. The first SE model was released on March 21, 2017, followed by the second generation on April 15, 2020, and the third generation on March 8, 2022. While there were expectations within the Apple community for a new iPhone SE in 2024, this has not yet come to fruition.
A recent report in Forbes underscores Apple's intention to integrate AI features into its new devices. The company plans to release a limited version of its generative AI software in September to support the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, with more comprehensive generative AI features for smartphones slated to debut in Q1 2025, coinciding with the expected launch of the iPhone SE 4. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, in his latest Power On newsletter, Apple is gearing up to launch the iPhone SE 4 at the beginning of 2025. Gurman suggests that the new iPhone SE will likely mirror the iPhone 14 but will boast a sharper OLED display that spans the entire device. Although pricing details remain undisclosed, if Apple can maintain the price under $500, the iPhone SE 4 could emerge as a leading budget smartphone.
Furthermore, Gurman indicates that the iPhone SE 4 will likely integrate some form of Apple Intelligence, offering a significant advantage as most current iPhones do not support Apple’s latest AI features. This implies that the SE 4 may feature at least 8GB of RAM and the A17 chip found in the iPhone 15. Rumors also suggest potential enhancements for the iPhone SE 4 compared to its predecessor, including a 48 MP main camera, a significant upgrade from the SE 3's 12 MP camera. Additionally, the new model may adopt a USB-C port instead of the Lightning connector and could include a solid-state Action button akin to the one on the iPhone 15 Pro. Given that SE models are generally less expensive than the flagship series, iPhone enthusiasts looking for a more budget-friendly option may be in for a pleasant surprise early next year.
