New iPhone SE 4 Expected to Arrive Soon
Apple is gearing up to unveil its latest budget-friendly smartphone, the iPhone SE 4, with a possible launch date of February 19. Apple CEO Tim Cook recently hinted at welcoming “the newest member of the family,” sparking speculation that the new iPhone SE will be introduced on that day.
While the announcement has generated excitement among Apple enthusiasts, reports suggest that the company is making significant design changes, leaving behind some popular features. The transition may disappoint certain consumers who have grown accustomed to these longstanding elements.
From removing the Home button to adopting USB-C charging, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to undergo major upgrades. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changing and how it might impact users.
Farewell to Touch ID and Compact Design
One of the most noticeable shifts in the iPhone SE 4 is the removal of the Home button and Touch ID. Unlike its predecessor, which retained the traditional fingerprint sensor, the new model is likely to feature Face ID. This aligns with Apple’s push towards a uniform design across its product lineup, resembling the iPhone 14 with a notch at the top of the display for facial recognition sensors and the front camera.
Although Face ID offers enhanced security and ease of use, many users still appreciate the simplicity of Touch ID, which allows unlocking without looking at the screen. While Apple has integrated fingerprint sensors into the power buttons of some iPads, it seems unlikely for the iPhone SE 4 to adopt this approach.
Another major shift is the screen size. The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature a 6.1-inch OLED display, marking a significant increase from the 4.7-inch LCD panel of the 2022 version. While larger screens have become the norm, some consumers prefer compact devices for easier one-handed use. Apple’s decision to move away from smaller screens follows the discontinuation of the iPhone mini series, reinforcing the trend toward larger displays.
USB-C Charging and Enhanced Performance
One upgrade that is expected to be widely welcomed is Apple’s transition from the Lightning port to USB-C for charging. This move, partially driven by European regulations, aligns Apple’s devices with the industry standard, making charging more convenient and reliable. Many users have reported durability issues with Lightning cables, making USB-C a more practical and long-lasting option.
Beyond design modifications, the iPhone SE 4 is anticipated to feature an A18 chip, the same processor expected in the upcoming iPhone 16 series. This upgrade promises smoother performance and potential support for Apple’s AI-driven features. Additionally, the device is rumored to house a 48MP main camera, a notable improvement over the 12MP sensor in the previous model. This enhancement should result in sharper images and better digital zoom capabilities.
Furthermore, Apple may introduce its own 5G modem for the first time, optimizing connectivity while improving battery efficiency. A larger battery is also expected, ensuring extended usage time.
With a three-year gap since the last iPhone SE, the upcoming model appears to be more than just a refresh—it’s a complete transformation. However, with significant changes come potential price increases. Reports indicate that the iPhone SE 4 might see a price jump from $429 to $499. While it remains to be seen how consumers will react to the removal of certain beloved features, Apple’s latest budget iPhone is undoubtedly a step toward modernization.
