The iPhone SE release date seems to be all the buzz these days. So, let’s get straight into the scoop on the iPhone SE 4 and the broader SE line.
Apple’s iPhone SE series has been all about giving users flagship power without the flagship price. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of iPhones—small, efficient, and packs a punch. This series has bridged the gap between affordability and top-tier performance, letting users tap into the best of Apple’s ecosystem without shelling out the big bucks. Each generation has delivered some significant upgrades while still keeping that price under control, and the iPhone SE 4 , rumored for 2025 , looks to follow this pattern.
In this post, we’re going to take a trip back through time to previous iPhone SE models, and then head on back to the future to see what just might be in store for the new iPhone SE 2024 or beyond? No matter what the true SE 4 release date is, we’re going to cut through the noise and get to the bottom of why the SE 4th Generation is going to probably be the coolest predecessor yet. Let’s get started:
TL;DR
The iPhone SE series offers flagship performance at a budget-friendly price point.
Each generation has brought significant upgrades in design, performance, and features.
The SE line plays a crucial role in Apple's market strategy, appealing to budget-conscious consumers and compact phone enthusiasts.
The anticipated iPhone SE 4 may feature a major design overhaul and cutting-edge technology.
The SE's evolution reflects Apple's commitment to long-term software support and ecosystem integration.
Historical Release Pattern
If you’ve followed the releases of the iPhone SE models, you’ll notice Apple doesn’t drop these every year. Unlike flagship models, they take time. It's like when a fighter steps back, waits, and then throws a calculated knockout punch. That’s what the SE lineup does. It comes out after a long pause, with each release incorporating some of Apple’s most advanced tech at a budget-friendly price.
The original iPhone SE hit in 2016, and according to GSMArena, it showcased its long-term support to receive updates up to iOS 15.8.1. The next iPhone SE that followed was the second-gen in 2020, and the third in 2022. Each of these releases coincided with major advancements in Apple’s tech. The big rumor? The next iPhone SE — possibly dropping in early 2025. The iPhone SE 2025 could feature the design of the iPhone 14 and rock USB-C. You’ve got to love that Apple keeps the SE spaced out enough to pack in meaningful updates.
First Generation (2016)
The OG iPhone SE was all about taking the beloved design of the iPhone 5s and stuffing it with the guts of the iPhone 6s. This was Apple’s way of giving fans of smaller phones the tech they craved. Basically, without the huge screens that were becoming the norm.
With the A9 chip under the hood and Touch ID, this device was a compact powerhouse that catered to those who wanted performance but didn’t need a phablet in their pocket. Plus, its 12MP camera with 4K video recording was a first at this price point.
Key Features
The iPhone SE was the perfect balance between affordability and functionality. With features like Apple Pay, 2GB of RAM for smooth multitasking, and Live Photos, it packed a lot of tech into a small frame.
You could say this was Apple’s first experiment with making a budget iPhone without sacrificing too much of what makes the iPhone great, and it worked.
Market Reception
When the iPhone SE launched at just $399, it was the most affordable iPhone ever, and it crushed expectations in markets that valued smaller devices. This wasn’t just a budget phone. It was more of a gateway into what Apple had to offer for a lot of users. Competitors definitely took notice, and it forced them to rethink their strategy for budget-friendly offerings.
Second Generation (2020)
Fast forward to the next iPhone SE on April 15, 2020, and Apple gave the iPhone SE a major glow-up by basing it on the iPhone 8 design. Bigger screen? Check. More powerful processor? Double check. When it comes to the next-gen of iPhone SE models, this thing had the A13 Bionic chip: the same processor that was in the iPhone 11, meaning you got all the speed of a flagship without the flagship price.
The second-gen SE also brought wireless charging and kept Touch ID for those who weren’t quite ready to jump to Face ID. It was the right move for Apple at the time, offering premium features like IP67 water resistance and True Tone Retina HD displays, which pushed it way beyond just a “budget” phone.
Design Changes
The 2020 SE stuck to a classic design, but with that aluminum and glass combo, it felt premium. And for the first time, you had IP67 dust and water resistance, something that added serious durability.
Apple stayed with the home button because, let’s be real, some folks love that button. It was all about keeping the user experience familiar but ramping up the performance.
Performance Upgrades
As noted by SimplyMac, the 2nd gen iPhone SE models featured an A13 chip, and with it, Apple brought Neural Engine capabilities, making AI-driven tasks smoother than ever. Think faster photo processing, better video capabilities, and seamless app performance. It also supported fast charging, letting you hit 50% battery in just 30 minutes.
Third Generation (2022) and Beyond
Then came the iPhone third-gen iPhone SE models. They might have looked the same, but inside, it was a different beast. Packing the A15 Bionic chip and bringing 5G to the SE lineup, it was a serious step up in terms of performance and future-proofing. The iPhone SE third gen gave us a taste of the iPhone 13, minus its price tag, and we were beginning to see a trend here. And with that said, everyone’s looking for what’s coming next with the SE 4 release date. So let’s take a trip down memory lane with a more in-depth look at these improvements to the third gen iPhone SE model:
2022 Model Improvements
The 2022 SE’s A15 Bionic chip meant a 26% boost in CPU performance over its predecessor, and the Neural Engine was twice as fast, pushing AI features like Deep Fusion to new levels. Battery life got a bump too, offering up to 15 hours of video playback, which was a solid improvement for anyone using their phone for streaming or gaming on the go.
5G Capability
And let’s not forget 5G. The SE 2022 supported sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks, so whether you were watching a 4K video or gaming online, speeds were off the charts. But Apple didn’t just throw 5G in there. With third gen iPhone SE models, they also introduced Smart Data mode to balance performance and battery life. It was all about optimizing that sweet spot between power and endurance.
Camera Enhancements
The camera on the 2022 SE took full advantage of computational photography, thanks to the A15 Bionic chip. Deep Fusion improved detail in low-light conditions, while Photographic Styles allowed you to tweak the look of your images in real time.
Sure, it didn’t have Night Mode, but software optimizations improved low-light shots, and Center Stage in FaceTime calls added a pro-level touch to these iPhone SE models.
And speaking of advantages like you get with those from the A15 Bionic Chip, you could also find some impressively Big Benefits when it comes to iPhone Protection too. No matter what model you have, be sure to check out our post on iPhone protection, whether it’s for iPhone 15, 16, or the next SE 4, it’s important to keep your device safe from scratches and this post proves why. But hey, back to these incredible 2022 advancements and the latest rumors which leads us to our next question: what’s in store for the next iPhone SE?
Fourth Generation Rumors (2025)
When it comes to whether it’s going to be the new iPhone SE 2024 or the iPhone SE 2025, it appears that the rumors tend to spread like wildfire.
According to rumors, the SE 4 release date could be gearing up to launch in March of 2025 and possibly feature a US-made chip from TSMC’s Fab 21 facility in Arizona.
What we have heard from recent reports is that the iPhone SE 4 is expected to take on the iPhone 14's overall design, which is a big shift for the SE series.
That’s right. The next iPhone SE could have that larger 6.1-inch OLED display, moving away from the older LCD panels, giving you better contrast, sharper visuals, and improved energy efficiency.
According to 9to5Mac, if the iPhone SE 4th generation looks like this, then it’s going to have a more immersive screen with a notched design, which likely means that Face ID is finally coming to the SE lineup, phasing out Touch ID and the iconic home button.
Rumors also suggest the SE 4 will pack Apple’s latest A18 chip, the same chip that’s powering the higher-end iPhone 16 Pro. This means the SE 4 won’t just be a budget phone—it’ll have the processing power of a flagship device, especially for AI tasks, machine learning, and computational photography.
Design Overhaul
The new SE’s rumored OLED display means better power efficiency and deeper blacks—something the SE line has needed for a while. This is a huge shift in aesthetics and function. With Face ID, we’re looking at an all-screen design, which significantly boosts the screen-to-body ratio, giving the SE a modern feel. The bigger form factor might also make room for a larger 3279mAh battery, improving one of the biggest complaints about previous SE models: battery life.
Processor Speculation
According to MacRumors, the A18 chip in the iPhone SE 4 will likely enable some serious upgrades in computational photography, AI-driven tasks, and energy efficiency, especially with 5G on board. We can also expect support for more advanced AR and machine learning applications, making the SE 4 a very capable mid-range device in 2025.
Comparison with Previous SE Models
In terms of how this stacks up against previous iPhone SE models, every generation has seen a big leap in processing power. The original SE had the A9 chip, and the second generation jumped to the A13 Bionic. The third-gen SE followed up with the A15 chip, and now, the SE 4 is expected to surpass even the regular iPhone 16 models in terms of raw performance. In short, this is going to be a serious upgrade for the SE lineup.
Form Factor Changes
Let’s get into the form factor evolution of the iPhone SE. The original iPhone SE kept it old school with a 4-inch display, perfect for people who preferred a smaller phone that fit comfortably in one hand. But as time went on, Apple started to shift the SE lineup to something a bit more modern. By the second and third generations, the SE got a size bump to 4.7 inches, which was a good balance between keeping the compact vibe but giving users more screen real estate.
Now, the next iPhone SE comes along, the SE 4. And from the rumors, we’re looking at a huge jump in size. With the SE 4’s 6.1-inch OLED display. If this happens with the SE 4th generation, that’s a significant upgrade. Apple’s pushing the SE into bigger territory, aligning it more with their flagship models like the iPhone 14. Even though the screen is growing, Apple is still focused on one-handed usability, with software features like Reachability making sure users can still handle the phone easily.
SE Generation |
Display Size |
Form Factor Inspiration |
1st Gen (2016) |
4.0 inches |
iPhone 5s |
2nd Gen (2020) |
4.7 inches |
iPhone 8 |
3rd Gen (2022) |
4.7 inches |
iPhone 8 |
4th Gen (2025)* |
6.1 inches* |
iPhone 14* |
*Based on current rumors
Screen Size Progression
The progression from the 4-inch display on the first-gen SE to the rumored 6.1-inch on the SE 4 isn’t just about making things bigger. It’s about adapting to how we use our phones now. That jump to 4.7 inches with the second and third-gen models allowed for a more modern 16:9 aspect ratio, which was perfect for watching videos and playing games.
But with 6.1 inches, you’re entering prime screen territory for more immersive gaming and content consumption, not to mention that OLED is going to make everything pop—better blacks, higher contrast, and improved battery life.
Even with this increase in size, Apple’s not abandoning the core SE philosophy of keeping things functional for one-handed operation. Software like Reachability is going to be key here, especially with that larger screen, making sure users don’t feel overwhelmed by the size increase.
Performance Improvements
When the original SE dropped, it came with the A9 chip, which was a massive upgrade compared to older models like the iPhone 5s. Fast forward to the second-gen SE with the A13 Bionic—now we’re talking some serious power for a budget-friendly device. This chip brought Neural Engine capabilities, unlocking advanced AI and computational photography.
The third-gen SE with the A15 Bionic kept pushing the performance boundary, narrowing the gap between the SE and Apple’s flagship devices.
Now, with the A18 chip rumored for the SE 4th generation, Apple’s not just keeping up—they’re aiming to leap ahead. This new processor could even outperform some of the older flagships, and it’s set to enable AI-driven features, better battery efficiency, and enhanced machine-learning tasks. In short, Apple’s making sure that the iPhone SE 4th has the muscle to compete with, and maybe even outperform, higher-end devices.
Chipset Advancements
Each of the iPhone SE models has seen some major improvements in processing power, and the SE 4 looks to be no different. The A9 chip in the original SE brought 70% faster CPU performance, a huge jump from the iPhone 5s. The second-gen’s A13 Bionic introduced advanced computational photography and powered some of Apple’s most cutting-edge AI features.
With the SE 4’s A18 chip, we’re looking at improved AI capabilities and energy efficiency that’ll not only give the SE insane performance but also a long-lasting battery life even with 5G. The SE’s consistent use of flagship processors means that Apple’s bringing top-tier performance to a more affordable price point.
iPhone SE's Role in Apple's Product Line
The iPhone SE plays a crucial role in Apple’s lineup. It’s the affordable gateway into the iOS ecosystem, giving users a way to get their hands on an iPhone without breaking the bank. It’s the bridge between the older models and the cutting-edge flagship devices, offering a taste of Apple’s best features at a more budget-friendly price.
Apple’s strategy with the SE line has been to maintain a presence in the mid-range smartphone market, and with the rumored SE 4, they’re continuing that tradition. This phone is going to give users access to flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag, making it an attractive option for both first-time iPhone buyers and those who want to upgrade without overspending.
Price Point Strategy
Apple’s been smart about how they price the SE. By keeping it affordable but still powerful, they attract price-sensitive consumers without making too many compromises on features. Every SE model has been designed to offer the key capabilities that users care about—like camera quality, battery life, and performance—without cramming in every bell and whistle from the flagship models.
This careful balance has allowed Apple to compete in markets where the average selling price is lower while maintaining a premium brand image. With the iPhone SE release date coming up, Apple is expected to keep that same balance with the SE 4, offering a solid feature set without pushing the price too high.
Technology Trickle-Down
One of the things Apple does best is taking flagship features and slowly trickling them down to the SE series. For example, features like water resistance and wireless charging showed up in the SE long after they were introduced in the higher-end models. The same goes for advanced camera features—often, you’ll see the SE adopt them a generation or two after the flagships.
This pattern is likely to continue with the SE 4th generation. We’re already seeing rumors of Face ID, OLED displays, and the A18 chip—features that were once exclusive to the flagship models, now making their way into the more affordable SE line.
Feature Adoption Timeline
Now, Apple’s iPhone SE series has always been a bit behind the curve when it comes to new features—but that’s by design. The way Apple works is, they introduce some high-end tech on their flagship devices, and then a couple of years later, it trickles down to the SE line. For example, Portrait mode photography, which first showed up on the iPhone 7 Plus, eventually found its way to the SE models after a generation or two.
Same goes for biometric authentication. We’ve been rocking Face ID on flagship iPhones since the iPhone X, but the SE still relies on Touch ID—at least until now.
As mentioned, there’s a big rumor that the next iPhone SE will be getting Face ID, which would be an incredible leap for the new iPhone SE 2025 and beyond.
When it comes to display technology, the SE has always lagged behind the flagship models. OLED displays? Forget about it—until now. According to AppleInsider, the rumored iPhone SE 4th generation OLED screen would finally bring that high-contrast, power-efficient tech into Apple’s budget phone. This shift usually takes a couple of generations, and it seems like the SE 4 is catching up big time.
Like much of the tech world, Rokform is readily looking forward to the iPhone SE release date, but as we await it, we’re sure that the most avid iPhone enthusiasts may already be rocking an iPhone or know someone who is, so be sure to check out our post on the top 10 best iPhone 16 cases and accessories. Because, honestly, when it comes to iPhone anything, what’s not to love?
Feature |
Flagship Introduction |
SE Adoption |
Time Lag |
Touch ID |
iPhone 5s (2013) |
SE 1st Gen (2016) |
3 years |
4K Video |
iPhone 6s (2015) |
SE 1st Gen (2016) |
1 year |
Wireless Charging |
iPhone 8 (2017) |
SE 2nd Gen (2020) |
3 years |
5G Connectivity |
iPhone 12 (2020) |
SE 3rd Gen (2022) |
2 years |
Market Impact and Consumer Reception
The iPhone SE line has always played a unique role in Apple’s strategy. It’s appealing to budget-conscious buyers who still want the quality that you get from Apple. With the iPhone SE 4 and its set release date in early 2025,
Apple may be bringing some serious upgrades to the table. With the possibility of that 6.1 inch OLED display and Face ID, the price could go up, and make it a little less friendly on the wallet than it used to be. Despite all this, it’s still expected to crush it in the markets where affordability meets performance, offering users flagship performances without that four-digit price tag.
Same goes for biometric authentication. We’ve been rocking Face ID on flagship iPhones since the iPhone X, but the SE still relies on Touch ID—at least until now.
As mentioned, there’s a big rumor that the next iPhone SE will be getting Face ID, which would be an incredible leap for the new iPhone SE 2025 and beyond.
When it comes to display technology, the SE has always lagged behind the flagship models. OLED displays? Forget about it—until now. According to AppleInsider, the rumored iPhone SE 4th generation OLED screen would finally bring that high-contrast, power-efficient tech into Apple’s budget phone. This shift usually takes a couple of generations, and it seems like the SE 4 is catching up big time.
Like much of the tech world, Rokform is readily looking forward to the iPhone SE release date, but as we await it, we’re sure that the most avid iPhone enthusiasts may already be rocking an iPhone or know someone who is, so be sure to check out our post on the top 10 best iPhone 16 cases and accessories. Because, honestly, when it comes to iPhone anything, what’s not to love?
Feature |
Flagship Introduction |
SE Adoption |
Time Lag |
Touch ID |
iPhone 5s (2013) |
SE 1st Gen (2016) |
3 years |
4K Video |
iPhone 6s (2015) |
SE 1st Gen (2016) |
1 year |
Wireless Charging |
iPhone 8 (2017) |
SE 2nd Gen (2020) |
3 years |
5G Connectivity |
iPhone 12 (2020) |
SE 3rd Gen (2022) |
2 years |
Learnings Recap
iPhone SE Release Date
The iPhone SE series has always been about power and value. Indubitably, from the very first iPhone SE release date, Apple showed us that they put performance above all else by equipping the lineup with flagship-level chips. All iPhone SE models got the same treatment, whether it was the A9 in the original or the A15 Bionic in the third-gen model. Camera tech in the SE evolved over the years, integrating computational photography features that pushed the device beyond its price range. With 5G connectivity added in recent models, the SE has kept pace with modern connectivity standards.
As rumors fly with the upcoming SE 4 release date, this really could be the biggest shift yet. From huge, 6.1 inch OLED screens to Face ID, there’s some potential in the air for some major iPhone SE 4 release changes, which could mean a bit of a change in the cost.
No matter when the next iPhone SE drops, at Rokform, we know what it’s like to have all that iPhone power in your hands. What do you do to protect it? That’s where our iPhone cases come in. No matter if you prefer our rugged or our crystal case, each style is built for people who need military-grade protection without sacrificing looks.
With MAGMAX™ technology and the RokLock™ twist lock, these cases are perfect for extreme conditions, whether you’re biking down a mountain or working in rough environments. We know that when you invest in an iPhone, you want to keep it safe, and we’ve got you covered with a variety of models.
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