Apple refreshes its mainline iPhones yearly, but fans of the entry-level iPhone SE range don’t get such preferential treatment. The most recent update to Apple’s cheapest smartphone came in early 2022; what was impressive for the price back then is looking less so in late 2024.
But SE fans rejoice: the latest reports suggest we’ll see a 4th-generation iPhone SE debut early in 2025, with Apple supposedly already ramping up production.
With a three-year gap since the previous generation, next year will almost certainly see the biggest-ever leap for the iPhone SE range. All rumors point towards it combining elements of more recent iPhones: it’s expected to recycle the design of the iPhone 14, notch and all, while adding the A18 chip from the just-released iPhone 16. Crucially, that would allow it to run Apple Intelligence features, opening up a top-end feature to the masses.
It’s also reported to include newer features like Face ID, USB-C, and a 48MP camera, made possible by compromises elsewhere. You won’t find multiple cameras, powerful speakers, or Apple’s best display technology here.
This is all expected to clock in in at an expected price point somewhere close to $500. Hardly “budget” level, but considerably cheaper than the mainline iPhones, and more powerful than Android devices in the same price bracket.
The downside for many fans of the current iPhone SE will be the death of the smaller form factor. If the new model borrows the iPhone 14’s design and its 6.1-inch display, that means it’ll be considerably bigger than the previous generation, which was based on iPhone 8 and its 4.7-inch display with bezels top and bottom. It’s also the death of Touch ID for those who prefer it to Face ID.
Still, it all sounds like a decent compromise to us that will satisfy plenty of users who don’t need the latest, greatest, and most expensive iPhones. Keep an eye out for an Apple event early next year for the full scoop.