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When contemplating whether to invest in an iPhone or wait for a new model, there are several aspects to take into account. On the one hand, there may be reasons to delay, such as potential price reductions for older models or the anticipation of a fresh release. However, despite the introduction of the iPhone 16, the situation has not fundamentally altered. While it offers some visual and hardware enhancements, many users still feel that it is a compromise. This is why people are eagerly awaiting the launch of the iPhone SE 4, which promises similar features at a more accessible price point. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a current device or wait for the upcoming one depends on individual preferences and priorities.
How much will the iPhone SE 4 cost?
The iPhone 16 is the most affordable Apple smartphone of the current generation, which is currently available for sale. It can be purchased at a price starting from $ 800 in the United States and Hong Kong. Not the most favorable price list, let’s face it. But we are talking about the most basic version, while the iPhone 16 Pluswith a 6.7-inch screen and an enlarged battery.
As for the iPhone SE 4, its release is expected in the first half of 2025. Most likely, the presentation will take place in April or May, if you rely on the dates of previous releases. And it will be one of the most high-profile upgrades of the line. The smartphone will not only get a new design with a screen in the entire front panel, but also Face ID, which has never been in the line before. But the main thing is the price of the new product, which will start from $ 499. In this case, the iPhone SE 4 will clearly win.
iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 16 design comparison
One of the main drawbacks of previous iPhone SE models was the outdated design with thick bezels at the top and bottom of the screen. The iPhone SE 4 is preparing to revolutionize this aspect. It is expected to be based on the design of the iPhone 14. In this case, it will have a 6.1-inch edge-to-edge display with minimal bezels, a TrueDepth camera with face recognition, and no Home button or fingerprint scanner.
The iPhone 16, in turn, is not much different from the iPhone 14 in appearance, but it has several advantages. The main one is Dynamic Island, which the iPhone SE 4 will be deprived of. The upcoming bulgetnik will probably retain the traditional cutout for the camera in the form of a visor. Obviously, this is a deliberate move by Apple not to make the iPhone 16 and SE 4 competitors to each other.
For exactly the same reason, the iPhone SE 4 will not receive all the new controls that the iPhone 16 has. Namely, the Action Button and Camera Control. The novelty will retain the usual toggle switch for silent mode, and it will not have a camera launch button at all. Frankly speaking, I would not call it a minus. For example, it is more convenient for me to use the toggle switch. But the design of the iPhone 16 looks clearly more attractive. Therefore, a plus for the flagship.
iPhone SE 4 Specifications
Much more interesting is that the iPhone SE 4 will be almost identical in key internal characteristics to the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. Traditionally, the SE line used the same processors as the flagship models. If this trend continues, the SE 4 will also get the latest A18 chip. This will not only provide high performance, but also open up access to Apple’s artificial intelligence features.
In addition, the new SE will support some or all of the Apple Intelligence features, which implies at least 8 GB of RAM — twice as much as the current SE. Another major improvement concerns the screen. It is expected that the SE 4 will get an OLED display instead of LCD, which will provide more accurate color reproduction, deep black color and perfect contrast. However, 120 Hz ProMotion support is likely to remain exclusive to Pro models. By this criterion, parity.
iPhone SE 4 Camera
Here, the iPhone 16 promises to keep the edge. It is equipped with a dual camera: the main one at 48 MP and an ultra-wide-angle one at 12 MP. Although there is no telephoto lens, the device is capable of 2x zoom thanks to pixelbinding technology. And the improved ultra-wide-angle camera also offers macro photography for the first time.
The SE, by contrast, has always had only one camera, and that tradition looks set to continue in the 2025 model year. The good news is that a 48 MP sensor is expected to be installed, which should enable 2X zoom. Yes, the new product will not have a macro mode, as well as the ability to expand the viewing angle. But I personally never use these svistoperedelkami, so I will not highlight the iPhone 16.
Which iPhone to buy in 2025
If all the rumors about the iPhone SE 4 are confirmed, we can get a device that is almost as good as the flagship models. Advanced features, an OLED screen and Apple Intelligence support, coupled with the long-term support that is common to all iPhones, can make the novelty one of the best offers on the market, and not just in the Apple line. Even with a single camera and not the newest design, it will be out of competition.
If Apple really decides to sell the iPhone SE 4 for $ 499, it will be a real bomb. First, because an iPhone is an iPhone. There is always an increased demand for them, regardless of the model and characteristics. And, secondly, new hardware at a price lower than the flagships is just super-profitable. The A18 processor and 8 GB of RAM will literally make the iPhone SE 4 several times better than the iPhone 15.
So should I wait for the iPhone SE 4 or buy the iPhone 16 now? In my opinion, if you are willing to wait a bit, and your goal is to save money, then it makes sense to wait until the release of the new state budget from Apple. After all, it will come to Russia at a price of no more than 55-60 thousand rubles. For this money, you can’t even buy an iPhone 15 today. And you don’t have to.
Another thing is, if you can’t wait any longer, and you need the most advanced smartphone without compromise, then your option is to take something from the flagships right now. However, the iPhone 16 in this case is unlikely to work. It is much more logical to take the iPhone 16 Pro or 16 Pro Max, but they will also cost much more. So think what’s best.
