Apple’s “affordable” iPhone series may be about to make a comeback. There are reports that Apple is developing a new iPhone SE model, codenamed iPhone SE 4. The report reveals that this new device will bring major changes mostly to the design relative to the previous generation. Tech website, 91mobiles obtained a CAD rendering of the model. The renders show that the fourth-generation iPhone SE, often referred to as the iPhone SE 4, is set to bring a significant design overhaul. They show that it comes with the aesthetics of the iPhone 14. Let us now take a look at the recent CAD renders to get a glimpse of the anticipated changes and upgrades that this new model will offer.
Design Features
The CAD renders showcase a departure from the traditional design of the current iPhone SE. It features a 6.1-inch all-screen display with a notch housing the TrueDepth camera array for Face ID authentication. This marks a shift from the previous model’s 4.7-inch display with Touch ID. The new design also includes flat sides and a USB-C port instead of the Lightning port. This aligns more closely with the design language of the iPhone 14.
Also, the previous iPhone SE models used the old iPhone design with a physical Home button. However, this time, Apple seems to be intending to make a change. According to CAD renderings provided by industry sources, it can be confirmed that the iPhone SE 4 has an all-screen display. This means that there will be no Home Screen button on this device.
The CAD renders also show that the iPhone SE 4 will adopt a notch screen design similar to the iPhone 13/14 series and be equipped with a Face ID facial recognition function. As for the rear camera, this model continues the single-camera solution of the previous model.
Physical Dimensions
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to measure approximately 147mm tall, 71.5mm wide, and 7.7mm thick, making it almost identical in size to the iPhone 14. These dimensions indicate a larger form factor compared to its predecessor to accommodate the larger 6.1-inch display. This also corroborates a MacRumors report last year, which mentioned that the iPhone SE 4 may be equipped with a physical Action button (which cannot be confirmed from the renders) and a USB Type-C interface.
Camera and Button Configuration
On the back of the device, there is a single camera cutout alongside a flash sensor, emphasizing simplicity in design. Additionally, rumours suggest that the iPhone SE 4 may feature an Action button, similar to what we have on the iPhone 15 Pro models. This button allows users to select from various tasks upon pressing it. However, from the renders, we can see that the camera sensor seems to be a bit thick. If this is the case, then it may be hard for this device to lay flat on a table because of the thick camera hump. This is only a render to give an idea of what the phone will look like. Apple will likely work on the thickness of the camera module.
Notable Changes
One significant change highlighted in the CAD renders is the absence of the iconic Home Button on the front of the device. Instead, users will rely on Face ID for authentication, aligning it with Apple’s latest design trends seen in models like the iPhone 14.
Release Expectations
While specific details about the release date remain uncertain, reports indicate that Apple might not unveil the iPhone SE 4 until 2025. This delay could be strategic to avoid direct competition with Apple’s higher-priced models like the iPhone 16 series. However, there is also a possibility that this device will launch alongside the iPhone 16 series at Apple’s conference this fall. We expect the iPhone 16 series to be a relatively routine upgrade. Thus, adding an affordable model may help stimulate sales in developing countries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone SE 4 should bring a fresh and modern design language to Apple’s lineup, offering users an enhanced visual experience and aligning more closely with flagship models like the iPhone 14. With its larger display, updated features like Face ID authentication, and potential inclusion of an Action button, this new iteration of the iPhone SE promises to deliver both aesthetic appeal and functionality for users seeking a balance between affordability and performance.
The anticipated release of the iPhone SE 4 marks a significant evolution in Apple’s “affordable” iPhone series. The CAD renders reveal a departure from the traditional design of its predecessors, showcasing a sleek all-screen display with other features reminiscent of the iPhone 14’s aesthetics.
Notable changes include the absence of the iconic Home Button, signalling a shift towards Face ID technology for authentication. The inclusion of a single-camera solution on the rear emphasizes simplicity in design, while rumours of an Action button add the potential for enhanced user interaction.
While specific details regarding the release date remain uncertain, reports suggest a possible unveiling in 2025, strategically timed to avoid direct competition with higher-priced models like the iPhone 16 series. However, the option of launching alongside the iPhone 16 series remains open, potentially stimulating sales in developing markets with its affordability.
Overall, the iPhone SE 4 represents Apple’s commitment to innovation and accessibility, offering users a blend of modern design and functionality at a more accessible price point. As anticipation builds, consumers eagerly await further details on this promising addition to Apple’s iPhone lineup. What do you think about the upcoming iPhone SE 4? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below
