Apple’s iPhone SE 4 is expected to launch in March 2025, with leaks indicating a price of under $500 in the US, marking a 16-17% increase from the iPhone SE 3 price of $429.
Pricing details and comparisons
Well-known tipster yeux1122 suggests the new iPhone SE 4 will start below $500 in the United States, aligning with previous rumors. The price bump represents an increase over the current model’s $429 starting point, although consumers may see a better value with a potential bump in storage from 64GB to 128GB.
The 128GB version of the iPhone SE 3 currently retails for $479, suggesting a minimal price increase if the iPhone SE 4 follows a similar pricing strategy. International pricing will vary, with an estimated starting price of over 800,000 won in South Korea compared to the existing price of 650,000 won for the SE 3.
Design and specifications
The iPhone SE 4 is anticipated to feature a modern look, adopting design elements from the iPhone 14, including Face ID rather than Touch ID. It is speculated to be fitted with the A18 chipset, 8GB of RAM, and a 6.06-inch OLED display.
Camera specifications are expected to include a 48MP main camera and a 12MP front-facing camera. This model will be capable of supporting Apple’s generative AI features, attracting budget-conscious buyers, older adults, and teens seeking their first smartphones.
Apple’s efforts to maintain competitive pricing for the iPhone SE 4 are aided by the integration of its own 5G modem, which reduces reliance on Qualcomm and associated licensing fees, as noted by several sources. By using in-house components, Apple aims to lower production costs while enhancing device performance.
The introduction of the custom modem codenamed Centauri is expected to optimize functionality across Apple devices. As the iPhone SE 4 is priced under $500, it offers significant value when compared to the iPhone 16, which starts at $799 in the US.
The iPhone SE 4’s anticipated pricing positions it between the SE 3 and the full-priced iPhone 16. Leaks suggest the target retail price will range from $499 to $549, depending on storage options. This pricing strategy seeks to maintain the SE series as an appealing choice for users looking for affordable smartphones without sacrificing modern capabilities.
Apple is expected to officially unveil the iPhone SE 4 in early 2025, alongside other products such as new MacBook Air models. The release will be closely monitored, particularly due to the introduction of Apple’s new modem technology and the overall consumer reception.
Featured image credit: Kerem Gülen/Ideogram
