A new iPhone SE is on the way, and while Apple has yet to confirm details, leaks and rumors have painted a clear picture of what to expect. Following Apple’s usual naming conventions, it will likely be called the iPhone SE (4th generation) or iPhone SE (2025), though Apple typically markets these devices simply as iPhone SE without additional branding.
Unlike Apple’s flagship models, which are unveiled at high-profile events, the new iPhone SE is expected to arrive with little fanfare, possibly as early as next week. While an official announcement is still pending, recent leaks—including a fresh batch of renders from case manufacturer Spigen—have provided further confirmation of key details. These images reinforce long-standing speculation that the device will feature a display notch and a single rear camera, signaling a major design shift from its predecessor.
The leaked renders suggest a design that closely resembles the iPhone 14, complete with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display—a significant upgrade over the LCD screens of previous SE models. The notch at the top of the display appears to house Apple’s Face ID sensors, indicating that Touch ID may finally be phased out in the SE lineup.
Button placement remains largely unchanged, though one notable detail is the possible removal of the traditional Alert Slider, replaced instead by a standard button. While this detail is harder to confirm from images alone, it hints at Apple streamlining the SE’s design to align more closely with recent iPhone models.
Under the hood, the iPhone SE (4th Gen) is rumored to be powered by Apple’s A18 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM. This would make it one of the most powerful budget-friendly iPhones to date, capable of running Apple Intelligence features that are expected to play a major role in Apple’s ecosystem moving forward.
On the back, the phone is expected to feature a 48MP single rear camera, a notable step up from the 12MP sensor used in previous SE models. This upgrade could bring improved detail, better low-light performance, and enhanced computational photography.
One of the most intriguing rumors is that the new SE will be the first iPhone to feature an in-house Apple cellular modem, potentially marking the beginning of Apple’s transition away from Qualcomm’s modem technology. This move could have significant implications for future iPhones, as Apple continues to develop its proprietary wireless solutions.
Additionally, the SE is expected to feature a USB-C port, following Apple’s broader transition away from Lightning. This change aligns with recent EU regulations and brings the SE in line with the latest iPhone models.
Leaks suggest the iPhone SE (4th Gen) will start at $499,for those looking for a more affordable iPhone without sacrificing performance, the iPhone SE (4th Gen) could be the best budget-friendly option Apple has ever released.