Apple’s Budget iPhone SE 4: Launch Could Happen Sooner Than Expected

Apple’s long-awaited iPhone SE 4 may hit the market sooner than anticipated. While earlier reports suggested an April release, a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hints that the tech giant could unveil its budget-friendly iPhone “as early as next week.”

What to Expect from the Launch

According to Gurman, Apple plans to announce the new iPhone SE via press releases on its website rather than hosting a full event, similar to how the budget-friendly iPad Mini 7 was recently launched. Once revealed, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to be available for purchase later in the month through Apple’s online store.

However, not all configurations will be immediately available. Gurman notes that specific models, including a 256GB red version, could face delays and may not hit the market until March.

A Fresh Design and Upgraded Features

The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the iPhone SE 3, released back in 2022. Borrowing its design from the iPhone 14, the new model is expected to feature Face ID instead of Touch ID. It is also likely to support the Apple Intelligence AI suite, bringing advanced functionality to the budget iPhone lineup.

Other upgrades include a 6.1-inch LTPS OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, an A18 chip, and 8GB of RAM—the same specs found in the standard iPhone 16. Camera-wise, the SE 4 is rumored to include a 48MP rear sensor and a 12MP selfie camera.

One of the most anticipated changes is the introduction of Apple’s first in-house cellular modem, marking a move away from Qualcomm modems.

Pricing and Availability

The iPhone SE 4 is expected to come with a slight price hike compared to the previous model, which launched at $429. Gurman estimates the new device could start at roughly $500, positioning it as a strong competitor to some of the best budget Android phones on the market.

With its fresh design, performance upgrades, and competitive pricing, the iPhone SE 4 is set to be a compelling option for fans of affordable Apple devices. Stay tuned for more updates as the official announcement approaches!

For a detailed breakdown of what to expect, check out Bloomberg’s full report.