
If you want to get into the world of iPhones, but don't want to break the bank, the iPhone SE is made for you. Offering the same software experience in a cheaper package, the phone has legions of fans and is often seen as one of the best cheap phones on the market.
Previously, we heard rumours of a redesign for the next generation of the handset. Moving away from the older design – which still utilises a home button – the new model is said to feature a silhouette more in keeping with flagships like the iPhone 14.
The chassis is rumoured to be the same as the one used on the iPhone XR, which means the end of the home button and the introduction of an all-screen display for the first time on the budget option. News circulated a few months ago that the project had been scrapped, but this has since been debunked.
Now, another rumour suggests it could still be in the works – albeit with a slightly later release date than we first thought. According to MacRumors, analyst Jeff Pu has mentioned news of the model releasing in 2025.
Notably, that model is said to feature an Apple-designed 5G modem. Currently, Apple uses Qualcomm 5G chips in their devices, though their acquisition of Intel's modem business a few years ago seemed to signal an intent to change that.
The device is reported to use TSMC's 4nm fabrication process and would support sub-6Ghz bands. Whether that would make this device the test-run for that system, or if they would have already made it onto the premium handsets, is unclear. But, if Apple can revolutionise that chip in the same way they did for their A- and M-series processors, we're in for a treat.
It's still a long way off, though, so expect to hear about more rumours and design changes before then.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts

Sam is an award-winning journalist with over six years of experience across print and digital media. As T3’s Senior Staff Writer, Sam covers everything from new phones and EVs to luxury watches and fragrances. Working across a range of different social media platforms alongside his written work, Sam is a familiar face for fans of T3. When he’s not reviewing snazzy products or hunting for stellar deals, Sam enjoys football, analog photography and writing music.
-
Samsung's flagship phones will reportedly maintain one key advantage over iPhone for the foreseeable
Apple is said to be struggling to match Samsung in a specific tech area
-
First foldable iPhone could be Apple's most eye-wateringly expensive ever
There's a big problem facing Apple
-
New Apple Vision Pro tipped for early 2026, but might not be what you expect
The second generation Vision Pro may not be the game-changing model you're hoping for
-
If the iPhone 17 Pro adds these 4 new features I'm already sold
Apple needs to make a big swing
-
Apple reportedly preparing the iPhone 17e already
But it sounds like an odd launch window
-
iPhone 17 Pro case leak shows Apple really is about to make a huge design swerve
This is going to alienate some users
-
Apple's Severance computer may have been a joke, but the keyboard is coming for real
Tell us where we can sign up!
-
New iPhone 17 Pro Max renders give us the best look yet at the flagship phone
This is going to cause a stir