Apple is set to use the same rear chassis manufacturing process for the upcoming iPhone SE 4 as it does for the iPhone 16, according to a recent rumor from China. The claim, made by Weibo leaker “Fixed Focus Digital,” suggests that the backplate manufacturing for the new SE model will mirror that of the standard iPhone 16, which is expected to be released in September.
Shift from Previous Rumors on iPhone SE 4 Chassis
This development challenges earlier rumors that Apple would base the iPhone SE 4 on the iPhone 14 chassis. Previously, sources indicated that the dimensions of the iPhone SE 4 matched those of the iPhone 14. Apple may have chosen the newer iPhone 16 chassis to streamline manufacturing as iPhone 14 production winds down.
Potential Camera System Changes for iPhone SE 4
The rumor also hints at changes to the iPhone SE 4’s camera system. Unlike the iPhone 14, the iPhone SE 4 was rumored to feature a single 48-megapixel rear camera. Adopting the iPhone 16’s backplate might suggest a dual-camera setup, similar to the standard iPhone 16 models. Apple plans to arrange the iPhone 16’s cameras vertically, a departure from the iPhone 15’s diagonal arrangement. This setup may support Spatial Video for the Vision Pro headset.
Affordable Price with Significant Upgrades
Despite these upgrades, Apple aims to keep the new iPhone SE’s starting price below $500. The new model will include significant enhancements, such as the transition from Touch ID and a Home button to Face ID and a display notch. The screen size will increase from 4.7 inches to 6.1 inches, and the device will feature a USB-C port and an Action button.
Anticipation for the New Model
The third-generation SE was released in March 2022. There is likely strong demand for a new model with the latest features from Apple’s flagship devices. With the new SE expected to launch in the spring, Apple fans can look forward to an affordable device with many of the advancements found in the upcoming iPhone 16.
