Apple Set to Launch iPhone SE 4 Today: Expected Features, Price, and Global Impact

Apple is set to unveil the iPhone SE 4 at its February 19 event, introducing a 6.1-inch OLED display, A18 chip, Face ID, a 48MP camera, and Apple Intelligence AI capabilities. The budget-friendly iPhone is expected to be priced at ₹50,000 in India, $499 in the USA, and AED 2,000 in Dubai, with pre-orders starting on February 21 and sales beginning on February 28. Positioned as a key growth driver in emerging markets, the iPhone SE 4 aims to address affordability concerns while supporting Apple’s expansion in regions like India and the UAE.

CONTENTS:

• Apple Set to Launch iPhone SE 4 at February 19 Event: Expected Features, Price, and Availability
• Apple CEO Tim Cook Teases New Product Launch on February 19
• From Classic to Cutting-Edge: The Evolution of the iPhone SE and What’s Next
• Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro to Feature Bold New Camera Design – Ultra-Thin ‘iPhone 17 Air’ Also in the Works!

Apple Set to Launch iPhone SE 4 Today: Expected Features, Price, and Global Impact

Apple is gearing up for a major product launch today, and analysts anticipate the announcement of a new iPhone SE 4 today —an affordable model that could help drive sales globally.

Last week, CEO Tim Cook hinted at the launch in a post on X, fueling speculation that the company is revamping the iPhone SE, which was first introduced in 2016 and last updated in 2022. Given that iPhone sales form a significant portion of Apple’s revenue, investors are eager for signs of growth, especially after the company reported a slight dip in first-quarter iPhone revenue to $69.1 billion—falling short of analyst expectations. Apple also faced an 11% decline in revenue from Greater China, where competition from brands like Huawei has intensified.

Affordability remains a challenge for Apple in certain markets, and the limited availability of Apple Intelligence—its AI-powered software—has dampened expectations of an upgrade boom. However, an updated iPhone SE 4 today could help address these concerns. The current SE, priced at $429, lacks the hardware to support Apple Intelligence, but Bloomberg reports that the new version will include this feature, potentially driving sales.

Analysts believe a refreshed iPhone SE 4 today could be a key growth driver, particularly in emerging markets. Evercore ISI analyst Amit Daryanani, who maintains an “Outperform” rating for Apple with a $260 price target, noted that the lower-cost model could expand Apple’s customer base. Apple itself has highlighted strong double-digit growth in emerging markets and plans to open additional stores in India and the UAE.

Daryanani estimates that the new iPhone SE could generate over $12 billion in revenue, given past trends and the growing demand for a budget-friendly iPhone.

The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be an exciting budget-friendly option for those looking to enter the Apple ecosystem. However, with the rumored ₹45,000 price tag and expected hardware compromises like a 60Hz display and an older notch design, it seems more like a device for those who prefer the compact form factor and iOS experience without spending flagship-level money.

The ecosystem push is also interesting—Apple’s seamless integration across devices is one of its biggest strengths. But I wonder if bundling an older M1 MacBook Air with an iPhone SE 4 is the best approach. With the M3 MacBook Air models already available, it might be better to invest in newer hardware for long-term usability.

Apple Set to Launch iPhone SE 4 at February 19 Event: Expected Features, Price, and Availability

Apple is set to unveil the highly anticipated iPhone SE 4 at its February 19 event, marking its first major product launch of 2025. Although Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the device, reports and leaks strongly suggest that the budget-friendly iPhone will be introduced alongside the new MacBook Air M4.

iPhone SE 4: Expected Features and Specifications

The iPhone SE 4 today is rumored to bring substantial upgrades, adopting a design similar to the iPhone 14. It is expected to feature:

• 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate
• Apple A18 chip, the same processor powering the upcoming iPhone 16 series
• 8GB RAM and 128GB storage as the base variant
• 48MP single-lens rear camera, a significant leap from the previous 12MP sensor
• 12MP front camera with Face ID support, replacing the traditional home button
• Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, moving away from Qualcomm’s technology
• Apple Intelligence AI capabilities, making it the most affordable iPhone with AI features

Launch Event: Date and Where to Watch in India

Apple CEO Tim Cook has announced a special event on February 19, 2025, starting at 10 AM PT (11:30 PM IST), streamed live from Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Indian viewers can watch the event on:

• Apple’s Official Website (apple.com)
• Apple’s YouTube Channel
• Apple TV App

iPhone SE 4: Expected Price and Availability

While Apple has yet to reveal official pricing, leaks suggest the iPhone SE 4 today will be priced at:

• Rs 50,000 in India
• $499 in the USA
• AED 2,000 in Dubai

Pre-orders are expected to start on February 21, with sales beginning from February 28. Competing with devices like the Google Pixel 9a, Nothing Phone 3a, and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, the iPhone SE 4 could appeal to those looking for a more affordable iPhone with flagship-like performance.

Apple’s Expanding Presence in India

Meanwhile, Apple component supplier Murata Manufacturing Co. is exploring production expansion in India, driven by shifting global supply chains. According to Bloomberg, Murata is assessing investment feasibility in response to growing demand, as customers push for overseas manufacturing to improve business continuity.

Apple CEO Tim Cook Teases New Product Launch on February 19

Apple CEO Tim Cook has teased the launch of a new product this week, sparking speculation about what it could be.

In a post on X last Thursday, Cook wrote, “Get ready to meet the newest member of the family. Wednesday, February 19. #AppleLaunch.” The post featured a short 7-second video showing a silver Apple logo with water flowing across it but provided no further details on the product or announcement time.

While Apple has not officially disclosed what will be unveiled, tech news outlets like Wired and 9to5Mac have speculated that it could be:

• The fourth-generation iPhone SE, marking its first update in three years
• A new M4 MacBook Air
• An M3 iPad Air
• The 11th-generation entry-level iPad

Social media users also joined the conversation under Cook’s post, suggesting possibilities ranging from an improved Siri to an iRobot-like device.

From Classic to Cutting-Edge: The Evolution of the iPhone SE and What’s Next

Apple’s iPhone SE lineup has consistently delivered a balance of performance, compact design, and affordability. Since its debut in 2016, each iteration has refined the concept while staying true to its core philosophy—offering a powerful iPhone experience at a lower price. Now in its third generation, released in 2022, the iPhone SE is due for an upgrade. With a fourth-generation model expected soon, here’s a look at its journey so far and what might come next.

The First iPhone SE: Compact Powerhouse

Launch Date: March 21, 2016

The original iPhone SE combined the familiar design of the iPhone 5S with the internal power of the iPhone 6S. Featuring the A9 chip and a 12MP camera with 4K video recording and Live Photos, it provided flagship-level performance in a smaller, more affordable form factor. This model catered to users who preferred compact devices without compromising on power.

• Display: 4-inch Retina
• Connectivity: LTE, Wi-Fi
• Chip: A9
• Camera: 12MP with 4K video support
• Storage Options: 16GB, 64GB
• Colors: Space Grey, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold
• Starting Price: ₹39,000

Second-Generation iPhone SE: Modern Specs in a Familiar Design

Launch Date: April 15, 2020

Reviving the iPhone SE series, Apple introduced a design reminiscent of the iPhone 8 but with upgraded hardware, including the A13 Bionic chip from the iPhone 11 series. This version featured a 4.7-inch display and Touch ID, offering a balance of value and performance.

• Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10
• Connectivity: LTE, Wi-Fi 6
• Chip: A13 Bionic
• Camera: 12MP with 4K video recording at 60fps
• Software: iOS 13
• Protection: IP67 water and dust resistance
• Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
• Colors: Black, White, (PRODUCT)RED
• Starting Price: ₹42,500

Third-Generation iPhone SE: Power Meets 5G

Launch Date: March 8, 2022

Building on the previous model, the third-generation iPhone SE introduced the A15 Bionic chip—found in the iPhone 13—boosting performance and efficiency. While retaining its predecessor’s design, it brought 5G connectivity, better camera enhancements, and improved durability.

• Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10
• Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6
• Chip: A15 Bionic
• Camera: 12MP
• Software: iOS 15
• Protection: IP67 water and dust resistance
• Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
• Colors: Midnight, Starlight, (PRODUCT)RED
• Starting Price: ₹43,900

What’s Next for the iPhone SE?

Expected Release Date: February 19, 2025

Rumors suggest Apple may introduce a major design overhaul for the next iPhone SE, possibly adopting a larger, edge-to-edge display similar to the iPhone 14 or 15 series. Additionally, advancements in AI-driven features, improved battery efficiency, and Face ID integration could mark a significant shift from previous models, making the SE line more versatile while remaining budget-friendly.

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro to Feature Bold New Camera Design – Ultra-Thin ‘iPhone 17 Air’ Also in the Works!

Apple is reportedly preparing a significant redesign for the upcoming iPhone 17 series. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the Pro models in the next-generation lineup will feature a revamped camera module, adopting a horizontal bar-style design spanning the back of the device. Additionally, the rumored iPhone 17 Air—expected to have a sleek and ultra-thin form factor—may follow a similar design approach.

iPhone 17 Series: Expected Design Changes

The report suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will introduce a horizontal camera module, though the camera arrangement itself is likely to remain unchanged. However, the LiDAR sensor and LED flash could be repositioned to the right side. With the extended camera bar covering more of the back panel, the Pro models might adopt a dual-tone aesthetic. Other anticipated changes include slimmer bezels and a more compact Dynamic Island at the front.

The iPhone 17 Air is also expected to incorporate a horizontal rear camera design similar to the Pro models. This thinner iPhone will likely feature a single rear camera housed within the camera bar, stretching across the top edge. By aligning its design with the Pro models, Apple could market the iPhone 17 Air as a premium device, despite its single-camera setup.

For those unfamiliar, Apple is reportedly designing the iPhone 17 Air with an ultra-thin chassis, possibly around 5.5mm thick—resembling the iPad Pro’s design language. For context, the thinnest iPhone to date, the iPhone 6, had a 6.9mm frame.

Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 17 models are expected to retain the vertically stacked camera layout introduced with the iPhone 16 series.