Apple’s next affordable phone has been shown off by a leaker, and there’s no sign of the Dynamic Island.
The iPhone SE series has long been Apple’s go-to solution for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality, and the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4 appears poised to continue that tradition. Over the weekend, we got what might be our clearest look yet at Apple’s next budget-friendly smartphone, thanks to a series of photos and a short video shared by well-known leaker Majin Bu. While earlier rumors hinted at the inclusion of the Dynamic Island design found on newer iPhones, these leaks suggest Apple may be sticking with its older notched display. Let’s dive into what we’ve learned.
The Leak: What We’ve Seen So Far
Majin Bu’s video and photos show what is either a genuine iPhone SE 4 unit or a highly detailed dummy model. The device is showcased in bright daylight, giving us a clear look at its features. The leaks reveal two color options: black and white, both sporting the classic minimalist design Apple is known for. True to the SE lineup’s DNA, the phone includes a single rear camera.
One notable upgrade, however, is the presence of a USB-C port — a first for the iPhone SE line and a change that aligns with EU regulations mandating the universal port for all devices sold in the region. This could be a welcome addition for users frustrated with the outdated Lightning port.
Notch Design: A Surprise Move
Perhaps the most surprising detail from these leaks is the iPhone SE 4’s display design. Many anticipated the SE 4 to adopt the Dynamic Island feature introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, but the leaked photos and video suggest otherwise. The device appears to retain a notched display, similar to the standard iPhone 14. The selfie camera’s positioning slightly off-center is a dead giveaway of this design choice. Majin Bu has also confirmed in replies to his post that the notch is indeed present.
This revelation contrasts with earlier reports from reputable leaker Evan Blass, who had tipped the SE 4 to include the Dynamic Island. While some may find this decision disappointing, it’s worth noting that keeping the notch could help Apple maintain the SE’s affordability by reusing existing designs and components.
OLED Display and Other Expected Features
Aside from the physical design, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature several significant upgrades under the hood. For starters, this will reportedly be the first SE model to switch from an LCD to an OLED display, delivering improved color accuracy and contrast. Additionally, rumors suggest the device will include enough RAM to support advanced Apple Intelligence features, such as machine learning and augmented reality applications.
Previous Leaks Align
This isn’t the first time we’ve gotten a glimpse of the iPhone SE 4. Just two weeks ago, leaker Sonny Dickson shared photos of similar dummy units that he later put up for sale. While those images were less detailed, they align closely with Majin Bu’s more recent leaks, lending credibility to the current design predictions.
Launch Timeline
Industry insiders suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will likely be unveiled in March or April of 2025, following Apple’s established pattern for SE launches. For context, the third-generation iPhone SE debuted in March 2022, so a spring launch for the SE 4 seems fitting. With just a few months to go, excitement is building as more leaks and rumors trickle in.
What This Means for the SE Lineup
The iPhone SE 4’s combination of a notched display, OLED screen, USB-C port, and potential performance upgrades signals a significant evolution for the series. While it may not adopt all the bells and whistles of Apple’s flagship models, the SE’s charm has always been in delivering a premium Apple experience at a lower price point. The inclusion of modern features like USB-C and OLED could make the SE 4 an appealing option for those who want a reliable iPhone without breaking the bank.
As we await an official announcement from Apple, these leaks give us plenty to speculate about. Will the iPhone SE 4 exceed expectations, or will it leave fans wanting more? Stay tuned as the countdown to the next generation of Apple’s most affordable iPhone continues.
