I Revisited the iPhone SE in 2025 and the SE 4 May Be an Even Bigger Hit

In 2025, revisiting the iPhone SE reveals a compelling case for why its successor—the anticipated iPhone SE 4—could be Apple’s biggest budget smartphone hit to date. Despite launching years earlier, the current model continues to attract millions of users seeking iOS performance at an accessible price point 1. With rumors pointing to a complete redesign, advanced internals including A18 chip integration, and potential support for 5G and Face ID, the iPhone SE 4 is poised to deliver flagship-level capabilities without the premium cost 2. This article dives deep into the legacy of the iPhone SE line, analyzes user experience in 2025, explores expected upgrades in the SE 4, and evaluates its market positioning against competitors and internal Apple strategies.

The Enduring Appeal of the iPhone SE Line

Since its debut in 2016, the iPhone SE series has served as Apple’s strategic entry point into the global smartphone market. The original iPhone SE offered iPhone 5s-like design with iPhone 6s internals, appealing to users who preferred compact devices and lower prices 3. In 2020 and 2022, updated versions retained the home button and Touch ID while incorporating increasingly powerful processors—A13 and A15 chips respectively—ensuring long-term software support and strong performance even by 2025 standards 4.

One key reason for the iPhone SE’s sustained popularity is its balance between hardware longevity and affordability. Priced starting at $429, it remains one of the cheapest iPhones capable of receiving full iOS updates for up to six years after release 5. This makes it especially attractive in emerging markets such as India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia, where purchasing power parity heavily influences buying decisions 6.

Additionally, many existing iPhone users opt for the SE as a secondary device due to its small size and durability. Its IP67 rating, stereo speakers, and solid build quality make it resilient for travel or outdoor use. While camera performance lags behind Pro models, the single 12MP rear sensor still delivers sharp daylight photos and supports Portrait Mode via computational photography—a testament to Apple’s optimization prowess 7.

User Experience with the iPhone SE in 2025: Still Relevant?

Using the iPhone SE (2022) in early 2025 confirms that Apple’s focus on performance over form pays dividends. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip—also used in the iPhone 13 series—it handles multitasking, gaming, and augmented reality apps with ease 8. Benchmark tests show it outperforms numerous mid-range Android phones released in 2024, particularly in single-core CPU tasks and app launch speed.

However, several limitations become apparent in daily use. The 4.7-inch LCD display feels outdated compared to modern OLED screens, lacking vibrancy and contrast. Brightness levels are adequate but struggle under direct sunlight. Moreover, the thick bezels and absence of Face ID mean frequent fingerprint authentication, which can be inconsistent when hands are wet or gloved.

Battery life is modest, offering about 10–12 hours of mixed usage—enough for average users but insufficient for heavy consumers of video or navigation. Charging remains slow, limited to 20W wired only, with no MagSafe support. Wireless charging works but lacks alignment magnets, making it less convenient than newer iPhones.

Despite these drawbacks, iOS 18 runs smoothly across all core functions. Features like StandBy mode, enhanced Siri intelligence, and on-device AI processing work seamlessly thanks to the efficient neural engine in the A15 chip 9. For users prioritizing ecosystem integration, iMessage, iCloud, AirPods connectivity, and Handoff remain major advantages over Android alternatives.

Expected Upgrades in the iPhone SE 4: What We Know So Far

Rumors and supply chain reports suggest the iPhone SE 4 will mark a radical departure from previous designs. According to Bloomberg, Apple plans to adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, eliminating the Home button and Touch ID in favor of Face ID and a larger 6.1-inch OLED display 2. This shift would align the SE more closely with current iPhone ergonomics, improving both usability and resale value.

The new model is expected to feature the A18 chip built on TSMC’s 3nm process, delivering improved efficiency and AI capabilities critical for iOS 19’s machine learning features 10. Early benchmarks project a 15–20% increase in CPU performance and up to 30% better GPU efficiency compared to the A17 Pro, enabling smoother gameplay and faster photo editing.

Other anticipated improvements include:

• Dual-camera system (wide + ultra-wide), finally bringing expanded photography options to the SE line
• USB-C port compliance with EU regulations, replacing Lightning 11
• Increased base storage option of 128GB (up from 64GB)
• Possible inclusion of Action Button functionality repurposed from mute switch
• Support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster wireless connectivity

Analysts believe the SE 4 could launch at $499, maintaining Apple’s sub-$500 strategy while accommodating higher component costs 12. If true, this pricing would position it competitively against Google’s Pixel 8a and Samsung’s Galaxy S24 FE.

Feature	iPhone SE (2022)	Expected iPhone SE 4 (2025)
Display	4.7" Retina HD LCD	6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED
Chipset	A15 Bionic	A18 Bionic (3nm)
Biometrics	Touch ID	Face ID
Rear Cameras	Single 12MP wide	Dual: 12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wide
Front Camera	7MP TrueDepth	12MP TrueDepth
Charging	Lightspeed + Qi wireless	USB-C + MagSafe-compatible wireless
Starting Price	$429	$499 (expected)

Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape

The success of the iPhone SE 4 will depend not just on specs but on how well it fits within Apple’s broader product strategy and consumer expectations. Currently, Apple dominates the premium smartphone segment but holds limited share in the sub-$500 category globally. The SE series helps bridge that gap, especially as inflation pressures force more buyers toward value-oriented choices 13.

In regions like India, local brands such as Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung offer aggressive competition with feature-rich Android phones under $300. However, Apple counters with superior software support, tighter security, and stronger brand loyalty. A recent survey found that 68% of iPhone SE owners plan to stay within the Apple ecosystem for their next upgrade, citing seamless integration as the top reason 14.

Compared to Android rivals, the SE 4’s likely combination of Face ID, OLED screen, USB-C, and A18 chip gives it a significant edge in perceived quality and future-proofing. Google’s Pixel 8a offers excellent camera performance and guaranteed seven-year updates but uses a mid-tier Tensor G3 chip that underperforms in benchmarks 15. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 FE provides high-end specs but starts at $599, overlapping with the base iPhone 15.

Apple may also leverage the SE 4 to drive services growth. Lower-income users acquiring their first iPhone often begin using Apple Music, iCloud+, and Apple Fitness+, contributing to recurring revenue streams. Analysts estimate that each new iPhone user generates an additional $120 annually in service income over three years 16.

Potential Challenges and Risks for the SE 4

While the outlook is optimistic, Apple faces several challenges in executing the SE 4 vision. First, increasing the starting price to $499 risks alienating budget-conscious customers who view $400–$450 as the acceptable threshold for affordable iPhones. Any further increases could push demand back toward older models or refurbished units.

Second, removing Touch ID entirely may frustrate users in cold climates or those wearing masks, where Face ID historically struggles. Although Apple has improved masked-face recognition since the pandemic, reliability remains inconsistent across demographics 17. Providing a fallback biometric method—or reintroducing Touch ID under the display—could mitigate this issue, but there’s no evidence Apple is pursuing either.

Third, manufacturing complexity increases with OLED panels, Face ID modules, and USB-C components, potentially impacting yield rates and supply availability at launch. Apple’s reliance on external suppliers like LG Display for OLEDs and Luxshare for assembly introduces logistical vulnerabilities, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting East Asian supply chains 18.

Lastly, environmental concerns around planned obsolescence and e-waste persist. While Apple claims carbon neutrality goals for all products by 2030, the accelerated refresh cycle of the SE line—potentially every two years—raises questions about sustainability 19. Encouraging trade-ins and recycling through programs like Apple GiveBack helps, but systemic industry change is needed.

Should You Buy the Current iPhone SE or Wait for the SE 4?

For consumers deciding now, the answer depends on urgency, budget, and long-term needs. The iPhone SE (2022) remains an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable iOS performance at the lowest possible cost. It will continue receiving iOS updates through at least 2028, ensuring compatibility with future apps and services 20. Existing owners experiencing slowdowns or battery degradation should consider replacement, ideally through Apple’s certified refurbishment program to reduce environmental impact.

However, if your purchase isn’t urgent and you value modern conveniences like Face ID, better displays, and improved cameras, waiting for the SE 4 makes sense. Expected launches in March or April 2025 give buyers a clear timeline. Pre-orders are likely to fill quickly given pent-up demand for an updated design.

Buyers upgrading from iPhones older than the iPhone 8 will notice dramatic improvements in speed, camera quality, and battery life regardless of which SE they choose. Those coming from Android should prepare for a different interface paradigm but will benefit from tight integration across Apple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the iPhone SE 4 expected to launch?

The iPhone SE 4 is widely expected to launch in March or April 2025, continuing Apple’s tradition of spring releases for the SE line 2.

Will the iPhone SE 4 have Face ID and USB-C?

Yes, multiple credible sources indicate the SE 4 will include Face ID and transition from Lightning to USB-C, complying with European regulatory requirements 11.

Is the iPhone SE 4 worth waiting for instead of buying the current model?

If you prioritize modern features like an OLED display, Face ID, and longer software support, yes. However, if you need a phone immediately and want to save $70+, the 2022 SE remains highly capable 4.

What will be the starting price of the iPhone SE 4?

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts a starting price of $499, reflecting increased production costs due to OLED and Face ID adoption 12.

Will the iPhone SE 4 have a dual-camera system?

Rumors strongly suggest the inclusion of a dual-camera setup featuring wide and ultra-wide lenses, marking a major upgrade from the current single rear camera 21.