Apple has long been known for its innovative products and attention to detail, but recent rumors suggest that not everything is going as smoothly. A report from the Japanese blog Mac Otakara has sparked discussions about whether Apple is developing a larger iPhone SE 4 “Plus” model, although this claim seems questionable given Apple’s usual approach to its budget iPhone line and recent sales figures for its larger phones.
Speculation Around the iPhone SE 4 Plus Model
The latest rumor, which surfaced in images shared by Mac Otakara, indicates that there could be two versions of the upcoming iPhone SE 4 – a standard 6.1-inch model and a larger 6.7-inch “Plus” version. The blog cites unverified sources from Alibaba for its information, but these reports stand in contrast to prior rumors. According to earlier leaks, Apple’s iPhone SE 4 design is expected to mirror the iPhone 14, featuring a notched display and a single rear camera. However, there has been no previous mention of a larger “Plus” model from other credible sources or supply chain reports, making this rumor feel less reliable.
While Mac Otakara has a track record of accurate predictions, it has also made claims in the past that didn’t materialize. Even the blog itself expressed uncertainty, noting that the “final precision design and size expansion have not been decided.” They also mentioned to MacRumors that “only the 6.1-inch model might be released,” leaving room for doubt about the possibility of a larger version.
Apple’s history suggests that releasing a larger iPhone SE 4 would be out of character, particularly considering the underwhelming sales of previous “Plus” models in its flagship iPhone series. With a primary focus on affordability, the SE line has traditionally remained compact, targeting users who prefer a smaller device at a lower price point.
What to Expect from the iPhone SE 4
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the size of the new iPhone SE, several key features are expected in the upcoming model, slated for release in March 2025. The iPhone SE 4 will likely transition to a more modern design, including:
- Face ID to replace the outdated Touch ID
- OLED screen instead of the current LCD panel
- A18 chip for improved performance
- Apple’s new 5G modem to provide better network capabilities
- A standalone 48MP rear camera to enhance photography
These upgrades reflect Apple’s desire to elevate the SE line to be more in line with their higher-end models, while still maintaining its position as a more affordable alternative.
Apple’s AI Challenges: Lagging Behind the Competition
In addition to its hardware developments, Apple is also grappling with issues on the software side, particularly with its AI technology. According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, some Apple employees feel that the company’s in-house AI, which powers Apple Intelligence, is two years behind its rivals. Apple’s generative AI lags in comparison to products from companies like Google, OpenAI, and Meta.
Internal studies at Apple reveal that OpenAI’s ChatGPT outperforms the new Siri, being 25% more accurate and able to answer 30% more questions. This gap has not gone unnoticed by Apple, which has already begun partnering with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its operating systems, allowing users to benefit from advanced AI features.
The Road Ahead for Apple’s AI Strategy
Despite the challenges, Apple has one key advantage: its vast ecosystem of tightly integrated devices. This ecosystem allows Apple to quickly deploy new technologies across its range of products, potentially helping the company close the gap with competitors in the AI space.
Apple has a history of successfully entering new markets and is not to be underestimated. Its latest iPhone 16 series already supports Apple Intelligence, and this AI technology has been rolled out to Macs and most iPad models (excluding the entry-level iPad). Next week, the first set of AI-powered features will launch across these devices, marking a significant step forward for the company.
Moreover, Apple is gearing up to introduce AI support in its upcoming products. The iPhone SE 4 and an entry-level iPad with AI capabilities are expected to arrive in 2025, and the company is also planning to incorporate AI into its highly anticipated Vision Pro device. Gurman speculates that by 2026, nearly every Apple device with a screen will feature Apple Intelligence, further enhancing the user experience with AI-driven functionalities like notification summaries, personalized recommendations, and more.
Conclusion
While the possibility of a larger iPhone SE 4 “Plus” model seems unlikely based on current information, Apple is moving ahead with plans to launch the next-generation SE model with significant upgrades. At the same time, the company faces challenges in catching up with rivals in the AI space. Nevertheless, Apple’s extensive device ecosystem and strategic partnerships put it in a strong position to bridge the gap over time. As Apple continues to innovate, the next few years will be crucial in shaping the company’s future, both in hardware and AI technology.
