A new leak suggests that Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4, expected in March or April 2025, will introduce a significant design change, potentially incorporating the Dynamic Island feature found on higher-end models.
Apple’s iPhone SE 4 to feature Dynamic Island design change
Previously, it was believed that the iPhone SE 4th generation would feature a cut-out at the top of the display. However, leaker Evan Blass revealed images that appear to highlight the Dynamic Island, sparking surprise given the SE’s focus on affordability through simpler components and older designs.
The iPhone SE has historically been a budget-friendly option, often utilizing the latest processors housed in older designs. The shift to an entirely new design for the SE 4 seems to indicate a break from this trend. Reports suggest that this new model may be based on the iPhone 14, which lacks the Dynamic Island. It is confirmed that the new SE will include a USB-C port, a requirement for sales in the EU.
As the launch date approaches, Apple has maintained a level of secrecy regarding the SE 4’s final design. The device is expected to feature Face ID instead of Touch ID, and an OLED display rather than an LCD. Various sources have provided differing information, leading to speculation about its design.
Blass’s leak included an image of source code referencing the iPhone SE (4th Gen), which raises questions about the rumored alternative designation as “iPhone 16E.” This code may serve as a placeholder, making the final naming uncertain.
The alleged design of the new iPhone SE features a Dynamic Island in place of a traditional notch, a feature currently present on the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 collections. This has prompted conflicting reports regarding whether SE 4 will adopt the Dynamic Island or a notch design.
Rumored specifications for the iPhone SE 4 include a 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID, a USB-C port, a single 48-megapixel rear camera, a newer A-series chip, and 8GB of RAM to support Apple Intelligence. Additionally, it is expected to be equipped with the first Apple-designed 5G modem.
Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst of the Apple supply chain, predicts that the iPhone SE 4 will be released in either March or April 2025, aligning with the launch schedule of its predecessors.
The current iPhone SE closely resembles the iPhone 8 and includes features such as a Touch ID button and a Lightning port, which are considered outdated. The pricing for the existing model starts at $429, and a slight price increase is anticipated for the upcoming version.
The leak also hinted at new iPad Air and entry-level iPad 11 models, which do not seem to feature any significant design changes and are likely to be announced around the same time.
Image credits: Evan Blass (via MacRumors)