Apple's fourth-generation iPhone SE might share some design elements and hardware components with the iPhone XR. Apple released the first-gen iPhone SE in 2013 to compete with Android devices at affordable prices. The device was a hit, as the company followed it up with the second-gen model in 2016. The third-gen iPhone SE, however, took a long time coming, with Apple only launching it earlier this year. The new device retains the design of its predecessor but comes with several upgrades in terms of hardware, including a faster processor and 5G connectivity.

The iPhone XR was launched in 2018 alongside the iPhone XS and XS Max. Powered by the A12 Bionic, it became a massive hit globally due to its larger screen and flagship-level hardware. According to Counterpoint Research, it was the highest-selling smartphone of 2019, with a three percent global market share. In addition, it was a runaway hit in North America with around 12 percent market share. The device is still supported by Apple four years after its launch with software updates, and it is expected to receive iOS 16 later this year.

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According to noted tipster Jon Prosser, the iPhone SE 4 will mostly be a reworked iPhone XR. Talking to Andru Edwards and Jon Rettinger in the latest episode of the Geared Up podcast, Prosser said that the next Apple mid-ranger would be "just the iPhone XR," albeit with a different name. As spotted by AppleTrack, the new device will feature a 6.1-inch display with a massive notch up-front and a single 12MP camera sensor at the back. It could also retain the iPhone XR's IP67 water and dust resistance.

Larger iPhone SE Coming Next Year

Apple logo on a festive background

Prosser did not reveal whether the new device will come with a new processor, but it will very likely be the case, as it is unlikely to ship with a five-generation-old chip. There's also no word on the display technology, the available memory, and storage options, but those will likely be revealed in the lead-up to the launch next year.

The latest rumor aligns with an earlier prediction by the tipster and TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. They claimed that the 2023 iPhone SE might ship with a larger screen to keep up with market expectations. The new iPhone SE will also almost certainly ship with 5G connectivity and a myriad of other modern features that could make it a hot favorite among buyers looking for a cut-price iPhone next year.

Source: Geared Up, AppleTrack, Counterpoint Research