New iPhone SE 4 Leak Points to March 2025 Launch with Apple’s First Custom 5G Modem

Apple's upcoming iPhone SE 4 is inching closer and closer as the company gears up to redefine its budget lineup. According to recent reports, the fourth-generation iPhone SE is confirmed to launch in March 2025, marking a major step forward in design, performance, and connectivity.

Here's everything we know so far.

Launch Timeline Confirmed by Industry Analysts

Barclays analyst Tom O'Malley has confirmed through a research note, as reported by MacRumors, that the iPhone SE 4 will debut toward the end of Q1 2025. This timeline aligns with Apple's tradition of launching SE models in the spring, following the release of the iPhone SE 3 in March 2022.

O'Malley's insights stem from a visit to key electronics suppliers and manufacturers in Asia, reinforcing earlier speculations about the device's launch window.

First iPhone with Apple's Custom 5G Modem

A standout feature of the iPhone SE 4 is its inclusion of Apple's proprietary 5G modem, codenamed "Centauri." Built on a TSMC node, the modem marks Apple's move to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm. This shift is significant as the company aims to transition its entire lineup to in-house modem technology gradually, starting with the SE 4.

Expected Specifications

The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to be a major upgrade over its predecessor, adopting a design inspired by the iPhone 14. This modern aesthetic is expected to include a 6.1-inch LTPS OLED display with minimal bezels and a resolution of 2,532 x 1,170 pixels at 460 PPI. The display is protected by Apple's Ceramic Shield, ensuring durability.

Key hardware improvements include the Apple A18 chipset, the same processor found in the iPhone 16 lineup, paired with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM. This combination not only boosts performance but also ensures compatibility with Apple Intelligence, Apple's suite of AI-driven features.

For photography, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature a 48MP primary camera and a 12MP selfie camera, offering significant improvements over previous models.

The iPhone SE 4 is expected to support 20W USB-PD wired charging, alongside 15W wireless charging via Qi2 and MagSafe. With an IP68 rating, the device is designed to withstand water and dust, enhancing its durability.

Transition to Face ID

Another notable change is the move from Touch ID to Face ID, signaling a departure from the iconic Home Button. This update aligns the SE series with Apple's flagship devices, further modernizing the budget lineup.

Broader Implications of the SE 4

The launch of the iPhone SE 4 is more than just a hardware update. It marks a pivotal moment for Apple as the company begins integrating its custom 5G modem technology into its devices. The SE 4 is also poised to become the most affordable iPhone with features like AI integration, making it a gateway for users to access Apple's tech at a lower price point.

As the launch approaches, more details are expected to emerge, setting the stage for what could be Apple's most significant SE release to date.