Apple's iPhone SE 4 to be Priced Under $500 with Custom 5G Modem

Apple is set to launch the iPhone SE 4 in the first quarter of next year, signaling a strategic shift to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm. The new model will be the first to feature Apple's in-house 5G modem, codenamed Centauri. This move allows Apple to price the iPhone SE 4 competitively, with recent reports suggesting it will retail for under $500, offering exceptional value compared to the $799 starting price of the iPhone 16 series.

Affordability and Advanced Features

The iPhone SE 4 will be one of the most affordable handsets to support Apple Intelligence, making it an attractive option for the masses. According to yeux1122's blog on Naver, the device will retail for under $500 in Japan. Although this is higher than the $429 launch price of the iPhone SE 3, customers can expect significant internal and external upgrades.

The iPhone SE 4 is expected to feature an A18 SoC, 8GB RAM, and a 6.06-inch OLED screen, albeit without ProMotion support. This configuration is compelling, especially when compared to the base iPhone 16, which also comes with an A18 chipset and 8GB RAM but is priced at $799 in the U.S. The iPhone SE 4's competitive pricing should keep Apple's competitors on their toes.

Thanks to the improved Neural Engine in the A18 and increased RAM, the iPhone SE 4 will be the most affordable model to support Apple's generative AI features. This aligns with Apple's strategy to bolster its position as a $4 trillion company by expanding its generative AI capabilities.

While we anticipate the iPhone SE 4's launch in the first quarter of next year, Apple is also expected to start 2025 with the release of the M4 MacBook Air family. The iPhone SE 4's blend of affordability and advanced features makes it a highly anticipated addition to Apple's lineup.

What are your thoughts on the iPhone SE 4's pricing and features? Will this new model be your next upgrade? Share your views in the comments below!