iPhone
1. Why the SE Line Needed a Refresh
Apple’s SE series has targeted budget-conscious consumers since 2016, with SE 3 debuting in 2022. That device featured outdated design with Touch ID and a 4.7‑inch LCD screen
- By early 2025, improvements in processing, display, and connectivity made a complete revamp necessary. With the discontinuation of SE 3 and other Lightning‑equipped iPhones in early 2025, Apple pivoted to a modern, bezel‑less design with advanced features while maintaining affordability .
2. iPhone SE 4 Is Actually iPhone 16e — What Apple Announced
On February 19, 2025, Apple officially introduced the 4th‑gen iPhone SE under the name iPhone 16e, rebranding it as the entry‑level 16 series model. Pre‑orders began on February 21, with shipping and store availability starting February 28. The name change reflects Apple’s strategy of unifying its iPhone lineup under the 16 series umbrella.
3. Design: Edge‑to‑Edge With the Familiar Notch
The iPhone 16e abandons the familiar SE 3 home button in favor of a 6.1‑inch OLED display resembling the iPhone 14.
- Unlike the Pro models, it retains the standard notch rather than Dynamic Island . Overall dimensions match those of the iPhone 13/14, and it carries an aluminum frame with matte glass back
4. From Touch ID to Face ID — No Going Back
The SE 4 eliminates Touch ID in favor of Face ID, signaling a full move to facial recognition. Apple noted Face ID offers higher security (1 in 1,000,000 bypass risk vs. 1 in 50,000 for Touch ID)
- Despite some user preference for Touch ID, Apple has firmly transitioned its biometrics.
5. Display Upgrade: LCD to OLED
The SE 4 makes the long‑awaited switch to a 6.1‑inch OLED display, offering richer contrast, deeper blacks, and superior power efficiency over the SE 3’s LCD . While refresh rate stays at 60Hz, this marks a major leap in viewing experience.
6. High‑Power A18 Chip & 8 GB RAM
One of the SE 4’s biggest upgrades is the inclusion of the A18 chip, identical to that in iPhone 16 series. Joining it is a generous 8 GB RAM, bolstering performance and enabling Apple Intelligence features.
- These upgrades ensure the device handles demanding apps for years to come.
7. Apple’s First In‑House 5G Modem
The iPhone 16e debuts Apple’s own C1 5G modem, dubbed “Centauri,” moving away from Qualcomm tech . This provides optimized integration, battery efficiency, and signals Apple’s expanding in-house hardware capabilities. Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth hardware remains third‑party for now .
8. Camera Overhaul: 48 MP Main Lens
While retaining a single rear camera, the SE 4’s sensor now boasts 48 MP, up from the 12 MP on SE 3. This offers improved image quality, optical 2x zoom, and better low-light performance—making it a compelling upgrade for photography enthusiasts.
9. Battery and Charging: USB‑C, Same Capacity
iPhone 16e migrates to USB‑C, following the removal of Lightning from all iPhones . Internally, it uses a 3,279 mAh battery like the iPhone 14, promising comparable video playback life (~20 hrs) . It supports Qi wireless charging (7.5 W), though lacks MagSafe or Qi2 .
10. iOS & Apple Intelligence
Shipped with iOS 18, the device also supports Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI platform introduced with iPhone 16. Expect seamless smart features like intelligent Siri, contextual prompts, and better device personalization.
11. Storage, Colors & Pricing
Official pricing is:
- 128 GB: $599
- 256 GB: $699
- 512 GB: $899
In India, price is estimated around ₹50,000 depending on duties and taxes .
Color options include Black, White, and possibly additional shades like blue or purple—rumored via third-party leaks .
12. What’s New vs. SE 3
| Feature | SE 3 (2022) | 16e / SE 4 (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 4.7″ LCD, Touch ID | 6.1″ OLED, Face ID |
| Chip | A15 Bionic | A18 + 8 GB RAM |
| Rear Camera | 12 MP | 48 MP |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Face ID |
| Modem | Qualcomm | Apple C1 |
| Port | Lightning | USB‑C |
| Price | From $429 | From $599 |
Despite the price bump, Apple’s strategy is to offer premium features at a lower‑cost threshold than flagship models.
13. Standing Against Models like iPhone 16 & SE 3
- Vs iPhone 16/16 Plus: Gains A18 chip but lacks Pro features like Dynamic Island, extra cameras, action button, UWB, and Qi2
- Vs SE 3: Offers massive upgrades in display, performance, biometrics, battery, and charger.
14. Market Reception & Reviews
Reddit users note the 8 GB RAM is essential for next‑gen Apple Intelligence.
- Analysts at MacRumors find the iPhone 16e surprising yet sensible for budget buyers . While it lacks premium extras, it ticks boxes important to most users.
15. Pros & Cons Summary
Pros:
- Flagship-grade A18 chip & AI features
- Modern Face ID design & OLED screen
- Future-proof USB‑C & Apple modem
- Solid camera uplift (48 MP)
- Wireless charging (Qi) support
Cons:
- No Pro-level features like LiDAR, ultra-wide lens, UWB
- 60Hz refresh only
- Slightly higher price (~$599) vs SE 3’s $429
16. Is It the Right iPhone for You?
Best for those upgrading from SE 2/SE 3, iPhone XR/11, or Android mid-rangers looking for longevity and modern features without flagship costs. Professionals wanting multi-camera setups or high-refresh ProMotion may still choose flagship iPhones.
17. Environmental & Supply Chain Notes
Apple’s shift includes discontinuing SE 3 and older Lightning ported models, full transition to USB‑C
- Integration of Apple’s modem chips also reduces dependence on Qualcomm, aligning with ecosystem consolidation.
18. Price & Release Timeline Recap
- Announced: Feb 19, 2025
- Pre-orders: Feb 21, 2025
- Available: Feb 28, 2025
- Price (USA): From $599
- India estimate: ~₹50,000
19. Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16e (or SE 4) marks a bold reinvention of Apple’s entry-level brand. By combining flagship-level chip and AI, Face ID, OLED display, Apple’s own modem, and upgraded camera in a $599 package, Apple reshapes the budget phone narrative. It addresses past criticisms—small screen, outdated specs—while maintaining cost-effectiveness compared to flagship iPhones.
If you’re looking for an affordable yet future-ready iPhone with essential modern features, the iPhone 16e is arguably the best all‑rounder.
Conclusion
Apple’s 2025 release of SE 4/16e is more than an iteration—it’s a transformation. With high-end internals, Apple’s own 5G, Face ID, USB‑C, and AI support, it blends the best of both worlds—affordability and capability.
