A major point of discussion regarding the iPhone SE 4 is whether it will feature a notch or a Dynamic Island. Two different leakers have provided conflicting insights on this matter, and the latest dummy models seem to indicate the presence of a notch.
The dummy models offer a clearer perspective on how the new entry-level iPhone might appear, accompanied by high-quality images and video.
The iPhone SE has consistently shown its age
Historically, iPhone SE models have lagged behind Apple’s primary lineup in design. While Apple embraced a slimmer, rounded-edge look with the iPhone 6 featuring a taller aspect ratio and thinner bezels, the initial iPhone SE drew from the older iPhone 5S design. Although some appreciated this classic style, it nonetheless felt outdated.
This trend has persisted with the current iPhone SE, which essentially houses an iPhone 11 chip within an iPhone 8 frame, complete with the classic Home button.
As a result, each iteration has clearly resembled a prior generation in visual design.
Anticipated changes for this year
This year’s iPhone SE is expected to be modeled after the iPhone 14 (illustrated above), which will offer a significantly more modern appearance by eliminating the large chin and Home button featured in the third-generation model.
However, we expect a couple of noticeable differences: the rear of the iPhone SE 4 is likely to have only a single camera, and the front design—if it closely resembles the iPhone 14—will likely include a notch instead of a Dynamic Island.
Notably, this latter feature has recently been called into question by another leaker.
Leaker suggests a Dynamic Island feature
A week ago, leaker Evan Blass shared images purportedly featuring the visual elements of the iPhone SE 4 along with three new iPads.
Interestingly, the iPhone image showed a hint of a Dynamic Island instead of a notch, a detail Blass confirmed.
Blass remarked on his shared image, stating he had “color corrected the phone to highlight the dynamic island.”
This development would be unexpected, as it could obscure the budget model’s distinction from the iPhone 16, raising potential concerns about market competition.
Yet the latest models hint at a notch
Conversely, fellow leaker Majin Bu has released several photos and a video of a dummy model. The video prominently displays the selfie camera on the left, similar to the iPhone 14, suggesting a notch rather than a Dynamic Island.
This leaker supports the claim by indicating that although Apple explored a design featuring a Dynamic Island, it ultimately decided on the notch.
As I’ve mentioned previously, there was a project involving the Dynamic Island, but it seems they’ve chosen to go with the notch for the final version.
DMN’s Perspective
The notion of a Dynamic Island felt surprising, suggesting that a budget model would align closely with the flagship designs. For that reason, the notch appears to be the more probable outcome.
We should not have to wait much longer for clarity, as the new model is expected to launch in the spring.
Check out the images here and the video—showing a look at the selfie camera’s placement—here.
iPhone 14 photo: Apple
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
