Apple iPhone SE 4 May Be Renamed as iPhone 16e: Reports Suggest Key Upgrades and New Design
Apple is reportedly planning a major shift in branding for its upcoming iPhone SE 4which could launch as the iPhone 16e. According to a Weibo tipster known as ‘Fixed focus digital’the company is likely to drop the SE brandingsignaling a repositioning of its entry-level offering to align more closely with the flagship iPhone 16 lineup.
The device is expected to debut in March 2025 as part of the iPhone 16 seriesjoining the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This development follows three generations of SE-branded models launched in 2016, 2020, and 2022which served as affordable alternatives while maintaining powerful performance.
Key Features and Specifications: What We Know So Far
The iPhone SE 4/iPhone 16e is rumored to feature significant upgrades over its predecessor, bringing it closer in design and capability to the flagship lineup.
Display and Design
- Larger Screen: The iPhone 16e will reportedly feature a 6.06-inch displaya significant leap from the 4.7-inch screen on the iPhone SE 3.
- Full-Screen Design: The new model is expected to adopt a full-screen display with Face IDmarking a departure from the classic SE design with Touch ID.
- Standard 60Hz Refresh Rate: While not as high as the Pro models, this is in line with its positioning as a mid-range device.
Performance
- A18 Chipset: The iPhone 16e will be powered by Apple’s in-house A18 chipsetdelivering flagship-level performance and enhanced efficiency.
- First 5G Modem by Apple: It is also expected to be the first iPhone to feature Apple’s in-house 5G modemshowcasing the company’s advancements in network technology.
Camera Upgrades
- Rear Camera: A 48MP Sony Exmor IMX904 sensor is set to replace the 12MP camera on the SE 3, promising improved photo quality and detail.
- Front Camera: The selfie camera will reportedly be upgraded to 12MPcompared to the 7MP sensor on the previous model.
Battery and Charging
- Battery Capacity: The device is expected to pack a 3,279mAh batterya significant improvement over the 2,018mAh battery in the SE 3.
- Charging: It will support 20W wired fast chargingalong with Qi2 and MagSafe wireless chargingaligning with Apple’s broader ecosystem.
Durability
- IP68 Rating: The iPhone 16e is rumored to offer dust and water resistancebringing it on par with the flagship models.
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16e is expected to be priced between $499 (approx ₹42,220) and $549 (around ₹46,400)similar to its predecessor, which launched in India at ₹43,900 in March 2022. Given the larger screen, enhanced performance, and upgraded cameras, this pricing places the device as a value-for-money option in Apple’s ecosystem.
The phone will reportedly debut globally in March 2025alongside its launch in India.
Why Apple Might Drop the SE Branding
The rumored renaming of the iPhone SE 4 to iPhone 16e signals a strategic shift by Apple to integrate its entry-level devices into the main lineup. By eliminating the SE branding, Apple could better emphasize the device’s alignment with flagship models while still offering it as a mid-range alternative.
The iPhone 16e will likely target users looking for a premium smartphone experience without the higher price tag of Pro models.
Conclusion: A Mid-Range Device with Flagship Ambitions
With its rumored larger display, A18 chipset, improved camerasand first-ever 5G modemthe iPhone 16e is shaping up to be a compelling choice for buyers seeking Apple’s premium quality at a competitive price. Its inclusion in the iPhone 16 lineup could mark a new chapter in Apple’s approach to entry-level devices.
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