Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4, set to release in Spring 2025, represents a bold fusion of high-end technology in a compact form. Borrowing the design language of the iPhone 14, it incorporates the advanced camera system of the iPhone 15 and the cutting-edge A18 chip from the iPhone 16. This SE model is poised to redefine expectations for mid-tier smartphones, bringing OLED displays and Face ID to the series for the first time.
Design and Display: OLED and Face ID Breakthroughs
The iPhone SE 4 marks a significant evolution in design, closely resembling the iPhone 14 but introducing key upgrades. Most notably, the SE 4 is the first in the series to feature an OLED display, offering deeper blacks and sharper contrast compared to previous LCD models. With a resolution of 1170×2532 pixels, this display delivers a much richer viewing experience, elevating everything from video playback to general browsing.
Another major shift is the inclusion of Face ID, a feature that replaces the traditional Touch ID seen in previous SE models. This upgrade not only enhances security but also offers a more seamless user experience when unlocking the device or making payments. The Face ID integration signals Apple’s commitment to bringing premium features to its more affordable models, narrowing the gap between the SE line and flagship devices.
Despite these advances, the iPhone SE 4 does not adopt Apple’s Dynamic Island, maintaining the familiar notch design. Nevertheless, the combination of an OLED screen and Face ID introduces a level of sophistication that sets this model apart from its predecessors, appealing to both new and existing users looking for an affordable yet powerful smartphone option.
Camera Upgrade: iPhone 15’s 48MP Lens in the SE Series
Apple’s decision to equip the iPhone SE 4 with a 48MP camera, similar to that of the iPhone 15, elevates the photography capabilities of the SE series to a new level. The main camera not only supports 2x optical zoom but also brings the kind of high-resolution detail that was previously reserved for flagship models. This makes the iPhone SE 4 a compelling choice for users who prioritize photography but prefer a more compact device.
While the SE 4 lacks the ultra-wide lens found in the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, the primary lens is capable of delivering exceptional image quality. Thanks to Apple’s advanced image processing software, even shots taken with the standard lens will feature rich colors, excellent low-light performance, and enhanced depth perception. The inclusion of features like Smart HDR 4 and Deep Fusion further refine the photographic experience, ensuring that users can capture professional-level shots without needing to invest in a premium device.
On the front, the 12MP camera also sees significant improvement, making video calls and selfies clearer and more detailed. Though it may not have all the bells and whistles of the Pro series, the camera upgrade in the iPhone SE 4 is a massive leap forward for the SE line, positioning it as a strong competitor in its price range.
Processing Power: A18 Chip from iPhone 16
The iPhone SE 4 is powered by the A18 chip, the same processor used in the upcoming iPhone 16 series. This leap in processing power allows the SE 4 to handle the most demanding tasks with ease, from high-end gaming to complex multitasking. With 8GB of RAM supporting the A18 chip, users will experience faster app launches, smoother transitions, and an overall more responsive device.
What truly sets the A18 apart is its integration with Apple’s advanced AI capabilities. This chip enhances everything from Siri’s responsiveness to real-time photo editing, allowing for more efficient and intelligent user interactions. The improved AI also helps in managing battery life, optimizing background tasks, and ensuring that even power-intensive apps don’t drain the battery quickly.
In terms of performance, the SE 4 can easily compete with high-end smartphones, despite its more affordable price point. Whether it’s rendering graphics in mobile games or running augmented reality apps, the A18 chip ensures that the iPhone SE 4 delivers a flagship-level experience in a smaller, more budget-friendly package.
Apple’s 5G Modem: A Leap in Connectivity and Efficiency
The iPhone SE 4 will be the first to feature Apple’s own 5G modem, a development that promises to enhance both connectivity and efficiency. By moving away from Qualcomm’s modems, Apple has optimized the SE 4’s 5G performance to better integrate with its hardware and software. This results in faster download and upload speeds, as well as improved stability in areas with spotty coverage.
The new modem also boasts superior energy efficiency. This means users can enjoy the benefits of 5G — such as smoother streaming, faster browsing, and quicker app downloads — without the significant battery drain that typically accompanies 5G usage. For frequent travelers or remote workers who rely on stable, high-speed internet, this improvement in efficiency is a game-changer.
Moreover, the modem’s design enhances compatibility with various global 5G networks, making the iPhone SE 4 a versatile device for international users. With its ability to maintain a strong connection even in challenging network environments, the SE 4 stands out as one of the most reliable mid-tier smartphones for staying connected in the 5G era.