iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a: Which mid-range smartphone is worth the hype?

iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a: Check which mid-ranger has the ability to outshine one another in the competitive smartphone market.

By: HT TECH
| Updated on: Dec 09 2024, 07:08 IST
iPhone SE 4 launch: Things to know about mid-range Apple AI powerhouse
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1/6 iPhone SE 4 launch is one of the most talked about things among tech enthusiasts right now. The upcoming Apple mid-ranger has been in the news for several weeks now and as the launch nears, more details around the iPhone SE 4 are surfacing online. (AppleTrack)
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2/6 iPhone SE 4 is expected to adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, with some slight modifications. The front will feature a notch housing Face ID components, and it will sport an OLED display—an upgrade over the older LCD panel. The back will include a single camera and a flash module, with a unique horizontal cutout, indicating a flatter profile without a noticeable camera bump. Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 may switch from the Lightning port to USB-C, mirroring the iPhone 14's connectivity, and could reuse some components like the battery to keep costs down. (IceUniverse)
iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a: Which mid-range smartphone is worth the hype?
3/6 Apple’s iPhone SE 4 aims to offer an affordable yet powerful experience. The device is expected to retain key features such as security, privacy, and high performance, while keeping costs low. Despite being a budget model, the SE 4 might include a 48MP primary camera, in line with the iPhone 15, focusing on computational photography. Expect features like MagSafe, Qi2 wireless charging, and a design that mimics the iPhone 14, with a sleek OLED display. The most notable upgrade is likely to be the chipset, which will ensure smooth performance for years to come. (X/Heya_stuff)
iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a: Which mid-range smartphone is worth the hype?
4/6 iPhone SE 4 is expected to include Apple Intelligence, which integrates AI features like large language models and generative tools. To handle these advanced features, it will likely be powered by the A18 chip found in the iPhone 16, ensuring top-tier performance. While the SE 4 won’t feature the "Pro" A-series chip, the A18 (or possibly a binned version of it) should provide comparable performance to flagship models. This would not only make the SE 4 capable of running Apple’s AI tools but also ensure it remains competitive against budget Android phones with similar AI capabilities. (Apple)
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5/6 Incorporating Apple Intelligence in the iPhone SE 4 could give it a significant edge over competing budget smartphones. While Google has already integrated AI features like Gemini into Android devices, Apple’s approach would ensure the SE 4 can handle the growing demand for on-device AI. The inclusion of the A18 chip will also make it more future-proof, providing a longer support cycle and enhanced performance over time. Given that the iPhone SE is often bought by users seeking a device that will last, Apple’s decision to use the latest chip helps ensure its longevity in a competitive market. (Ming-Chi Kuo)
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6/6 Reports suggest that Apple is planning to release the iPhone SE 4 in early 2025, potentially alongside other major product announcements like the iPad 11 and M4 MacBook Air. With the current iPhone SE priced at $429, rumours indicate that the SE 4 will likely remain under the $500 mark, keeping it accessible while offering significant upgrades. Apple is expected to announce the device in March 2025, offering a more affordable entry point into the iPhone ecosystem while incorporating premium features such as the A18 chip and Apple Intelligence.
iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a: Which mid-range smartphone is worth the hype?
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Check out the specs comparison between iPhone SE 4 and Google Pixel 9a. (Ming-Chi Kuo)

In 2025, Apple and Google are expected to launch their mid-range smartphones, the iPhone SE 4 and Pixel 9a. These two smartphones are expected to compete with each other since they are expected to launch in a similar price range and are most likely to offer flagship-like features. While we have seen several A-series smartphones from Google over the past few years, Apple will be launching the SE model after three years, therefore, we are in for significant upgrades. To know which smartphone is worth the hype, check out the comparison between the iPhone SE 4 and Google Pixel 9a based on rumours. 

Also read: Samsung Galaxy S25, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, iPhone 17: Top flagship smartphones to expect in 2025

You may be interested in

Apple iPhone SE 4
  • White
  • 128 GB Storage
  • 6.1 inches Display Size
Google Pixel 9A
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 128 GB Storage
  • 6.3 inches Display Size
Google Pixel 9
  • Peony
  • 12 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Storage
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
  • Porcelain
  • 16 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Storage

iPhone SE 4 vs Google Pixel 9a:

Design and display: The iPhone SE 4 will likely come with a design similar to the iPhone 14, however, it may have slimmer bezels, a smaller display notch, and a Face ID feature. However, it may come with a single rare camera setup. On the other hand, the Pixel 9a may come with a slimmer camera module in comparison to its predecessor. Additionally, the smartphone may come with a new design.

Not sure which
mobile to buy?

For display, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to feature a  6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. Whereas, the Pixel 9a may also come with a 6.1-inch OLED display that may offer a 120Hz refresh rate. 

Also read: OnePlus tackles green line issue: Lifetime display warranty announced ahead of OnePlus 13 launch

Camera: The iPhone SE 4 is expected to feature a 48MP rear camera which may also offer  2x optical zoom. On the front, it may feature a 12MP TrueDepth selfie camera. On the other hand, Pixel 9a is expected to come with a dual camera setup that may consist of a 48MP main camera and 13 ultrawide camera. 

Performance: The iPhone SE 4 is expected to be powered by an 18-chip with 8GB RAM storage. On the other hand, the Pixel 9a will likely be equipped with Tensor G4 chip. Both the chipset powers the flagship iPhone 16 model and Pixel 9 model.

Battery: As of now, the battery specs have been kept under the hoods. Therefore, we may have to wait for the launch of the iPhone SE 4 and Pixel 9a to confirm what's coming. 
 

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First Published Date: 07 Dec, 09:00 IST
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