Apple to unveil "Newest Member of the Family": iPhone SE 4 with major upgrades, starting at around 3999

Apple to unveil "Newest Member of the Family": iPhone SE 4 with major upgrades, starting at around 3999In the early hours of this morning, Apple CEO Tim Cook officially announced a special event on February 19th, themed "Newest Member of the Family," where a new product will be unveiled. Strong indications point to this highly anticipated device being the next generation iPhone SE, tentatively referred to as the iPhone SE 4

Apple to unveil "Newest Member of the Family": iPhone SE 4 with major upgrades, starting at around 3999

In the early hours of this morning, Apple CEO Tim Cook officially announced a special event on February 19th, themed "Newest Member of the Family," where a new product will be unveiled. Strong indications point to this highly anticipated device being the next generation iPhone SE, tentatively referred to as the iPhone SE 4. Based on leaked information, this entry-level iPhone will receive a series of significant upgrades, completely reshaping perceptions of the iPhone SE lineup.

1. Farewell Home Button, Embrace Face ID and a Notch Display:

The iPhone SE series, since its inception, has clung to its classic Home button design, a unique characteristic. However, the upcoming iPhone SE 4 will break this tradition. Reliable sources suggest the new model will adopt a notch display similar to the iPhone 14, incorporating Face ID facial recognition. This means the Home button, a staple for three generations, will be retired. This change not only improves the screen-to-body ratio but also provides users with a more convenient and secure unlocking method. Screen size also sees a significant upgrade, jumping from 4.7 inches or 5.4 inches to 6.1 inches, offering a more expansive visual experience. While the screen material upgrades to OLED, the resolution and refresh rate will remain at the standard 60Hz to control costs.

2. A18 Chip Powerhouse, Doubled RAM:

Performance-wise, the iPhone SE 4 will boast Apple's latest A18 Bionic chip. This second-generation 3nm chip offers a significant performance boost over its predecessor, easily handling complex computing tasks. Coupled with 8GB of RAM, this will be the highest RAM capacity in iPhone SE history, sufficient for various applications and providing a solid foundation for future Apple Intelligence AI functionalities. Notably, the iPhone SE 4 will be the first entry-level iPhone to support AI features, further enhancing its competitiveness.

3. Apple's In-House 5G Modem, Breaking Free from Qualcomm:

In terms of connectivity, the iPhone SE 4 will feature Apple's self-developed 5G modem for the first time. While initially it may only support Sub-6GHz bands, this marks a milestone for Apple, signifying a crucial step towards independence from Qualcomm and strengthening its in-house chip development capabilities and technological prowess. This will grant Apple greater autonomy and influence in the 5G technology landscape.

4. 48MP Main Camera, Significantly Improved Imaging:

The imaging system sees an upgrade to a 48MP single rear camera sensor, combined with Apple's advanced computational photography techniques, drastically improving image quality, allowing users to capture clearer and more detailed photos and videos. Although still a single-lens setup, computational photography enhances image quality far beyond previous generations.

5. Full Adoption of USB-C Port:

In compliance with EU regulations, the iPhone SE 4 will fully adopt a USB-C port, aligning with other Apple product lines and simplifying data transfer and charging for users. This change also reflects Apple's positive response to global unified interface standards.

6. Affordable Price, King of Value:

Price-wise, it's predicted the iPhone SE 4 will start at $499 (approximately 3647), representing a 16% increase over its predecessor. The Chinese market price is expected to start around 3999. Despite the price increase, considering the comprehensive upgrades in processor, RAM, screen, camera, and port, the iPhone SE 4 maintains the most affordable pricing in Apple's product line, remaining an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers and a potential leading entry-level iPhone model.

7. Balanced Configuration, Clear Positioning:

The iPhone SE 4's configuration strategy reflects Apple's precise market positioning. It retains core features like the powerful A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, but makes compromises in screen, camera, and design to avoid direct competition with its flagship iPhone models. The "good enough" philosophy allows the iPhone SE 4 to focus on providing a high value-for-money experience for entry-level users, fully meeting daily usage needs.

In conclusion, the iPhone SE 4 is not a simple iterative upgrade but a bold attempt by Apple in the entry-level market. While maintaining an affordable price, it significantly improves core configurations and user experience, undergoing a complete overhaul in performance, imaging, and design to offer users a better experience and higher value. Whether this new device can continue the success of the iPhone SE series and further solidify Apple's leading position in the entry-level market remains to be seen.