Are there any specific scenarios where the iPhone SE 4's 5G might be slower than expected

**1. Limited Modem Capabilities
The iPhone SE 4 is equipped with an Apple-designed 5G modem that reportedly lacks support for mmWave technology, which is crucial for achieving the highest 5G speeds. Instead, it focuses on sub-6 GHz bands, which generally offer slower speeds compared to mmWave. Users in areas with strong mmWave coverage, such as urban hotspots, may find that their SE 4 experiences significantly lower peak speeds compared to devices like the iPhone 16 that utilize Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 modem, which supports both sub-6 and mmWave bands[1][2].

**2. Network Congestion
Network congestion can severely impact 5G speeds. During peak usage times or in densely populated areas, many users connecting to the same cell tower can lead to slower speeds for everyone. This issue is not unique to the iPhone SE 4 but affects all devices on congested networks[3][5].

**3. Frequency Band Limitations
The performance of the iPhone SE 4 will also depend on the frequency band it connects to. Low-band 5G provides broader coverage but limited speed improvements over 4G LTE, while mid-band offers a balance of speed and coverage. If users are primarily connected to low-band frequencies, they may not experience the expected enhancements in speed[3][4].

**4. Device and Software Limitations
The capabilities of the iPhone itself can also affect performance. If the device's software is outdated or if there are bugs affecting its operation, this could result in slower performance. Ensuring that the iPhone SE 4 is running the latest software can help mitigate some speed issues[5].

**5. Environmental Factors
Physical barriers such as buildings and terrain can interfere with signal strength, particularly for higher frequency bands. If users are in locations where signal penetration is poor, they may experience slower speeds regardless of their device’s capabilities[3][4].

In summary, while the iPhone SE 4 offers a promising entry into Apple's ecosystem with its new modem, users should be aware of these factors that could lead to slower-than-expected 5G performance in various scenarios.