According to a new report from Weibo-based leaker Fixed Focus Digital, Apple’s iPhone SE 4 will use the same backplate manufacturing process as the iPhone 16, which is expected to be unveiled this fall.
The latest claim contrasts with earlier rumors, which suggested that the iPhone SE 4 would have a similar rear chassis to the iPhone 14. According to previous reports, the SE 4 would have a modified iPhone 14 backplate to accommodate a single 48MP camera sensor.
The reason for this shift isn’t entirely clear. It’s possible Apple has changed course and will use a dual-camera system in the SE 4, leveraging the larger size of the phone for enhanced camera capabilities. But it could also be Apple aiming for economies of scale, leveraging the larger volume of SE 4 units to utilize the same manufacturing processes as the company’s flagship iPhone line.
In addition to the camera system, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to bring a number of features to Apple’s more affordable phone line, including a larger 6.1-inch display, a USB-C port, an action button and Face ID. It’s expected to cost less than $500, despite the upgrades, when it launches next March.