The next iteration of Apple's budget-friendly iPhone SE might receive a significant upgrade, shifting from the traditional LCD to a more advanced OLED screen. According to recent reports from the supply chain, Apple has begun placing orders for OLED displays from suppliers BOE and LG Display, indicating a potential change in the display technology for the fourth-generation iPhone SE.
This rumour, circulating for over a year, suggests that Apple is preparing to introduce this new feature in its most affordable smartphone. According to Nikkei Asia, Apple could commence production of these devices next month, with an expected launch date in early 2025. This shift to OLED could represent a major improvement in the visual experience of the iPhone SE, bringing it closer to Apple's more premium models.
iPhone SE 4: What to expect
In addition to the possible OLED display, the upcoming iPhone SE 4 is likely to adopt the design of the iPhone 14 chassis, featuring a 6.1-inch display. This might disappoint fans of the iPhone Mini, who preferred the smaller form factor, but it would align the SE series with Apple's more current design language. Unlike its predecessors, which have typically used Touch ID, the new SE model might introduce Face ID, offering users a seamless way to unlock their phones.
Another notable feature could be the inclusion of an Action Button, a physical control that has recently become a hallmark of Apple's higher-end devices. While the exact functionality of this button in the SE model remains to be seen, it could potentially add a layer of customisation or quick access to certain features, enhancing the overall user experience.
However, like previous SE models, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to retain a single rear camera. Apple's focus on the SE line has always been on providing a solid, affordable iPhone experience without the frills of their more expensive counterparts. Thus, while it may lack the multiple camera setups seen in other models, it will likely still deliver reliable photo quality for everyday use.
The significance of Apple Intelligence
Perhaps the most intriguing rumour surrounding the iPhone SE 4 is the potential inclusion of Apple Intelligence, Apple's on-device multimodal AI technology. This could make the SE 4 more powerful in artificial intelligence capabilities than even the iPhone 15, which does not feature this technology due to hardware limitations, including its 6GB of RAM.
If Apple does indeed equip the SE 4 with this AI functionality, it would mark a significant leap forward for the device, making it one of the most capable budget smartphones on the market. Apple Intelligence could offer enhanced features such as improved Siri responses, more advanced image processing, and smarter predictive text, among other benefits.
As Apple gears up for the production of the iPhone SE 4, all eyes will be on how these potential upgrades will influence its position in the market. With an OLED display, Face ID, and possibly even advanced AI capabilities, the iPhone SE 4 could be a major step forward for Apple's budget line, providing consumers a more premium experience at a lower price point.
