The iPhone SE 4 is set to be one of Apple’s most affordable models, with its price reportedly coming in under $500, according to leaks from Japanese carriers.
This budget-friendly price is made possible by Apple’s decision to switch to its own cellular modem chip, eliminating the need to pay licensing fees to Qualcomm.
Apple has long aimed to reduce its reliance on external suppliers, and this move is seen as a significant step toward achieving that goal.
By developing its own modem, Apple not only cuts costs but also gains the ability to optimize its devices further, similar to how the company has done with its Apple Silicon chips.
This shift will debut with the iPhone SE 4, which is rumored to adopt the iPhone 14 design, offering a more modern look compared to its predecessor. The phone is expected to feature 8 GB of RAM, enabling it to run Apple Intelligence, a key feature of the iPhone 16.
However, there is a potential downside. Consumers who purchase the iPhone SE 4 may end up acting as “beta testers” for Apple’s new modem.
If any issues arise, these users will likely be the first to experience them. But if the modem proves successful, it could pave the way for its inclusion in future iPhone flagship models, potentially reducing costs or enhancing performance.
Despite the risks, the iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be one of the best budget smartphones of 2025, provided Apple’s modem delivers on its promise.
