Functional Buttons and USB-C: iPhone SE 4’s Exterior Evolution

September 28, 2023 – In a recent report from the international tech news outlet MacRumors, it has come to light that Apple’s iPhone SE 4 is set to undergo significant transformations in terms of its design and hardware specifications.

Resembling the iPhone 14 in Appearance

Internally code-named “Ghost,” the Apple iPhone SE 4 appears to share a striking resemblance to the iPhone 14, to the extent that it retains the testing parameters of the latter during internal testing.

Introducing Functional Buttons and a USB-C Port

When it comes to its exterior, two major changes are anticipated: the introduction of functional buttons and the adoption of a USB-C port. Apple opted for functional buttons over the mute switch in the iPhone 15 Pro, allowing users to customize their preferred operational choices.

Another noteworthy alteration with the iPhone SE 4 is the shift to a USB-C port, aligning with forthcoming European Union regulations. Insider sources have revealed Apple’s extensive use of the E85 connector, which is synonymous with the USB-C port.

Apart from these conspicuous changes, the iPhone SE 4’s appearance largely mirrors that of the iPhone 14.

48-Megapixel Camera

The rear of the iPhone SE 4 will feature only one camera, akin to its predecessor, with the flash in a similar position. Apple has reportedly developed at least five distinct designs for the camera bump, which can be broadly categorized into two types:

1. A rectangular camera island housing both the camera and flash.

2. A single-camera bump.

Preliminary information suggests that the iPhone SE 4 may come equipped with a 48-megapixel rear camera, signifying a significant upgrade compared to current models.

Bid Farewell to the Home Button, Embrace Face ID

The iPhone SE 4 may also feature an OLED panel similar to the iPhone 14. Unlike previous models, it is likely to forgo the Home button and instead rely on Face ID for biometric authentication.

Apple’s internal references to “Pearl” have been recurrent; this is the internal code name for Face ID and related hardware, closely tied to the iPhone SE 4.

Unlikely to Feature an In-House 5G Modem

Apple is reportedly developing an in-house 5G modem, code-named “Sinope,” and plans to test this new hardware with the iPhone SE 4. Current information suggests that the new modem is being tested in the iPhone SE 4 and its derivative product, “D84S,” for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Initially, the new 5G modem was intended to debut alongside the iPhone 16 series and be available across the entire range. However, based on information from our sources, this may no longer be the case.

Furthermore, Qualcomm recently issued a press release stating that they would supply smartphone modems to Apple until 2026.

It appears unlikely that Apple will test its in-house 5G modem on the iPhone SE 4, as there would be no need for significant camera redesign or the introduction of functional buttons.

Please note that the Apple iPhone SE 4 is currently in the early stages of development, and adjustments may occur along the way, potentially leading to discrepancies between the information provided here and the final retail version.

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