Apple's Next iPhone SE: Major Redesign and Exciting New Features Coming Soon
Apple is gearing up to launch a fresh iteration of its iPhone SE, possibly as early as next week, and the update could shake things up in a big way. After years of maintaining a similar design since its debut in 2016, the upcoming iPhone SE is set for a transformation. Here’s what we expect from the 2025 model based on the latest leaks and rumors.
Goodbye Home Button, Hello Face ID
The most significant change for the iPhone SE will be the removal of the iconic home button, a design feature that’s been a staple since the iPhone 6. In place of the button, Apple will slim down the bezels and introduce Face ID, which will give the phone a modern edge. This shift will make the SE resemble the iPhone 14, featuring a notch for Face ID sensors, a design choice seen in most current iPhones but not quite as cutting-edge as the iPhone 14 Pro’s Dynamic Island.
Leaked images and videos, including one from the known leaker Majin Bu, show a potential non-functional model, providing a glimpse into the redesigned front.
A Customizable Action Button
In another interesting update, the iPhone SE will likely include an Action button, similar to the ones on the iPhone 15 Pro series. However, it won’t have the same camera-specific controls; instead, it will be customizable for various functions. This marks a departure from the traditional physical buttons of earlier SE models.
Larger, OLED Display
The 2025 iPhone SE will boast a bigger and more vibrant display. Moving away from the 4.7-inch screen of the 2022 model, it will feature a 6.1-inch OLED display—the same size as the regular iPhone 16. This shift will not only increase screen real estate but also enhance the visual experience with OLED technology, which is brighter and more color-accurate than the previous LCD panels.
With this screen size upgrade, the overall phone will be slightly larger and heavier than earlier SE versions, though it will likely still feel manageable compared to flagship models like the iPhone 16.
USB-C Port for Global Compatibility
Another big change will be the inclusion of a USB-C port instead of Apple's Lightning connector. This move is largely driven by EU regulations, which have mandated USB-C for all devices. The SE, which was previously pulled from some European markets due to its Lightning port, will now be more universally compatible and future-proof.
Flagship-Level Performance
Internally, the iPhone SE will be powered by Apple’s A18 chip, the same one found in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models. This gives the SE an impressive boost in performance, with Apple’s latest silicon running the show. It’s also expected to include 8GB of RAM, which will improve the phone's ability to handle multitasking and power the company's AI-driven features.
In addition to the A18 chip, the SE will be one of the first devices to feature Apple’s in-house 5G modem. While it will only support sub-6 5G, not the faster mmWave, this marks a milestone in Apple’s push for more self-reliant technology, replacing Qualcomm’s modems.
Price and Launch
Apple is rumored to reveal the new iPhone SE next week, though it may not go on sale until later in the month. The price is expected to start around $500, higher than the 2022 model’s price of $429. The storage base will also be upgraded to 128GB, eliminating the previous entry-level 64GB option.
Possible Name Change
There’s a possibility that the new device won’t carry the "iPhone SE" name, as some sources suggest it could be branded as the "iPhone 16E." However, given the long history of the SE line, it’s still more likely that the name will remain.
What’s Next for Apple
The iPhone SE 2025 could mark the beginning of several big iPhone launches this year, with an upcoming iPhone 17 Air, along with other significant updates to the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro expected later.
All in all, the upcoming iPhone SE promises to offer an exciting combination of modern features, high-end performance, and an affordable price tag—making it an enticing option for those seeking a capable iPhone without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for the official announcement soon!
