The implications of the iPhone SE 4 having only one rear camera are varied, especially when compared to other phones in its class[1].
Advantages:
* High-quality main camera: The iPhone SE 4 is expected to have a 48MP main camera, the same as the iPhone 15[1][3]. This would allow for sharper, more detailed images compared to the current iPhone SE[3].
* 2x optical zoom quality: A higher-resolution sensor would give iPhone SE users the ability to crop in on shots for close-ups that deliver 2x optical zoom quality[4]. The iPhone SE 4 will also get the same 2x 'lossless zoom' as the iPhone 15 - in both photo and video mode[7].
* Strong performance: The powerful A18 chipset may outweigh the benefits of an additional camera[1].
* Cost savings: Sticking with a single camera is a cost-cutting measure[6]. Some argue that the majority of users may not even care about having multiple cameras and may prefer to save money[7].
* Streamlined experience: Some people may find multiple camera systems to be overwhelming or unnecessary[2].
Disadvantages:
* Lack of ultra-wide lens: The iPhone SE 4 would lack an ultra-wide camera, which is a common feature on other budget phones[6][1].
* Limited versatility: Without an ultra-wide lens, the iPhone SE 4 would be less versatile than phones with multiple cameras[4].
* Market perception: Some may see a single-camera phone as outdated or inferior to phones with multiple cameras[1].
* Missed opportunities: Releasing an iPhone SE 4 with only one rear camera in 2025 also means selling an iPhone SE 4 with only one rear camera in 2026, 2027, and maybe all the way into 2028[7].
* Better low-light photos: The SE model has always lacked a night mode for its camera[3].
[1] https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-500-iphone-se-a-single-camera_id167625
[2] https://www.phonearena.com/news/about-the-sensational-return-of-single-camera-phones-how-when-why-android-iphone-dslr-camera-features_id137099
[3] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/the-iphone-se-4-is-going-to-be-apples-most-exciting-phone-release-this-year-heres-why
[4] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/iphone-se-4-coming-soon-7-biggest-upgrades-changes-for-apples-cheapest-phone
[5] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/gadgets-news/single-camera-multiple-cameras-what-works-better-and-what-doesnt/articleshow/88664944.cms
[6] https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/iphone-se-4-2025-vs-iphone-15_id6992
[7] https://www.phonearena.com/news/selling-iphone-se-4-with-only-one-camera-in-2025-2028-will-apple-get-away-with-another-murder_id165516
[8] https://pixelcraft.photo.blog/2024/05/10/qa-limitations-of-smartphone-cameras-i/