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In a recent development that aligns with earlier speculations, industry analysts from Barclays have revealed that the highly anticipated iPhone SE 4 is facing a significant delay and won’t hit the shelves until 2025.
The journey of the much-awaited iPhone SE 4 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, oscillating between rumors of cancellation and revival in various iterations, including an engineering model designed exclusively for Apple’s internal usage. However, an updated report now confirms that the fourth generation of Apple’s budget-friendly smartphone will indeed see the light of day, albeit not in 2024, as initially predicted.
Barclays analysts have released a research note targeted at the company’s investors, disclosing that the delay is primarily attributed to complications arising from the phone’s 5G modem. Blayne Curtis and Tom O’Malley, in their report, corroborate previous claims that the iPhone SE 4 was initially intended to house Apple’s in-house 5G modem, departing from the company’s reliance on Qualcomm’s modems, as seen in recent iPhone models.
Nevertheless, the latest revelation suggests a change in Apple’s strategy for the iPhone SE 4. The upcoming device will reportedly no longer feature Apple’s proprietary 5G modem, paving the way for Qualcomm to continue as a supplier, potentially serving both the iPhone SE 4 and even the speculated iPhone 16 in 2024.
This strategic shift comes on the heels of Apple’s long-standing efforts to replace Qualcomm’s modems with its in-house design. The tech giant embarked on this ambitious journey in 2019 when it acquired Intel’s smartphone modem business, aiming to reduce its dependence on third-party suppliers.
While the setbacks related to the proposed 5G modem seem to be a major factor contributing to the iPhone SE 4’s delay, they might not be the only roadblock hindering its release. Earlier reports have hinted at challenges faced by screen manufacturer BOE in producing the cost-effective OLED displays required for the device.
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Despite these hurdles, Apple enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers can find solace in the fact that the iPhone SE 4 is indeed on its way, even if the wait has been prolonged. With its revamped release timeline and potential 5G capabilities, the iPhone SE 4 is poised to make a significant impact on the mid-range smartphone market upon its eventual launch in 2025. As Apple continues to fine-tune its supply chain and address production challenges, eager fans can rest assured that the best things are worth waiting for.