The fourth-generation iPhone SE could look a lot like the iPhone XR

It’s hard to believe, but we’re getting closer to the release of the fourth generation iPhone SE. And it looks like Apple wants to update the design of the less expensive phone. However, as you might expect, it won’t be a completely new design.

Jon Prosser recently hosted the Geared Up podcast featuring Andra Edwards and John Rettinger (via AppleTrackr) to discuss what Apple is working on. Part of that conversation was about the next iPhone SE model, which could arrive sometime next year. According to Prosser, who has an impressive track record when it comes to confirming early rumors about future Apple-branded products, the new iPhone SE (4th generation) will feature the same design as the iPhone XR.

My understanding is that the SE 4 – and I don’t think I’ve said it publicly – is just the iPhone XR.

The current iPhone SE model shares the same design as the iPhone 8, so it’s no surprise that Apple will adopt another familiar model for the iPhone SE lineup. Even if it looks like updating the current device with something new. And adopting the design of the iPhone XR would do just that, as the device loses large bezels at the top and bottom of the display. As well as a physical home button.

If Apple goes down this path, it will mean the Home button will all but disappear from the iPhone lineup. The iPhone SE is currently the only phone you can buy new from Apple that has a physical home button. Going down that path would mean that Apple is ready to bring Face ID to every iPhone model in the current release.

If this rumor is true, of course.

Of course, this particular change will also mean some other major changes for the iPhone SE in the future. First, the screen size. The current iPhone SE has a display size of 4.7 inches. The iPhone XR, meanwhile, has a 6.1-inch screen. iPhone SE fans tend to stick with the device due to the smaller screen size, so it will be interesting to see if Apple gives up and moves away from this particular phone size in the future.

But what do you think of this potential shift? Do you think it’s the right move for Apple to adopt the iPhone XR design for the new iPhone SE?