iPhone SE4 or iPhone 16e? Here’s what Apple is likely to launch in 2025
Apple is rumored to launch a new budget iPhone in 2025 instead of the anticipated iPhone SE 4, likely named iPhone 16e. The device is expected to feature design and performance upgrades including the A18 series chip, the first in-house modem chip, and more.
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Rumors about a potential iPhone SE 4 have been swirling for months, with a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggesting a launch for late March or early April 2025. While these reports support the possibility of Apple releasing a new budget iPhone, some suggest that the Cupertino-based company may not launch the iPhone SE 4 at all, but instead introduce a device called the iPhone 16e Is.
According to a recent post by Majin Boo on X (formerly Twitter), the leaker revealed that the so-called iPhone SE 4 may launch as the iPhone 16e. This is in line with Apple’s possible plans to add the budget smartphone to its flagship iPhone 16 lineup, which includes the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max.
Majin Buu is not the only source indicating this name change. Just a few days ago, Chinese leaker Fixed Focus Digital shared similar insights on Weibo, adding weight to the claim and pointing to a strategic branding change.
However, it should be noted that Apple has not confirmed this name change, nor has the company given any hint about the upcoming launch. So, will it be the iPhone SE 4, the successor to the iPhone SE 3, or the renamed iPhone 16e? Only the official launch will confirm. Meanwhile, as far as specifications are concerned, several rumors and renders suggest that the new affordable iPhone will bring significant changes compared to its predecessor.
iPhone SE 4 design inspired by iPhone 14
Reports indicate that the iPhone SE 4—or the iPhone 16e—will feature a design refresh. The SE is expected to adopt a similar design to the iPhone XR or iPhone 14, except for the older iPhone 8-inspired look. It includes a 6.06-inch OLED display, which is a major upgrade from the 4.7-inch LCD screen found on the iPhone SE. 3. The shift to OLED will give users better colors and deeper contrasts.
Another major design change rumored for the iPhone SE 4 is the removal of the Touch ID home button. Instead, it is expected to feature Face ID, aligning it with Apple’s flagship devices and enhancing security. Apple may also slim down the bezels on the iPhone SE 4 for a much better user experience.
Powered by A18 series chip
Under the hood, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to run on Apple’s latest A18 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM – double that of its predecessor. This hardware upgrade promises not only a powerful performance boost but also support for Apple Intelligence features, including advanced AI and machine learning applications. The phone is also likely to include 128GB of base storage to meet the needs of the modern user.
Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to be the first Apple device to use the company’s in-house 5G modem, reducing reliance on Qualcomm Snapdragon modems.
big camera upgrade
The iPhone SE 4 is also expected to see significant camera upgrades. Rumors suggest it will have a 48-megapixel rear camera, which is a big improvement over the iPhone SE 3’s 12-megapixel camera. This advanced sensor combined with the Fusion Lens is expected to deliver high-quality images and improved 2x zoom capabilities. ,
Pricing and availability in India
Despite the upgrade, pricing rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 could launch in the US for around $500 (roughly Rs. 42,700), according to a report by a Korean outlet citing a Japanese carrier. This is in line with Apple’s strategy of keeping the device affordable while offering substantial improvements. For comparison, the iPhone SE 3 launched in India for Rs 43,900. Considering the general price difference between India and the US, the iPhone SE 4 price in India could range between Rs 49,900 to Rs 53,900.