iPhone 15 review: Apple’s latest leap in innovation
The iPhone 15, set to launch on September 22, 2023, brings a new wave of innovation to Apple’s smartphone lineup. While it retains some design elements from its predecessor, the iPhone 14, it introduces several exciting features and improvements, making it a compelling choice for upgraders.
What makes it that best?
⦿ Design and Display
The iPhone 15 maintains a similar design to the iPhone 14, with a few subtle refinements. Notably, the aluminum frame now features a slight curve on one edge, enhancing comfort and grip. The back glass is a single piece, including the camera bump, to facilitate easier repairs.
In terms of display, the iPhone 15 comes in two sizes: 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch. These Super Retina XDR displays offer a stunning 460ppi (pixels per inch) and support HDR, True Tone, and the P3 color gamut. The OLED screens provide a remarkable 2 million to 1 contrast ratio and reach 800 nits of brightness under normal use conditions.
⦿ Cameras
Apple has upgraded the Main Camera on the iPhone 15, previously known as the Wide Camera. It now boasts a larger 48MP sensor with a wider f/1.5 aperture, resulting in higher-quality photos and enhanced low-light performance. Apple claims a 49% improvement in low-light photography with this upgrade.
The Ultra Wide Camera remains unchanged, and there’s no mention of the macro photography feature for non-pro models. However, the selfie camera has received improvements, featuring an f/1.9 aperture and autofocus. Combined with depth sensors used for Face ID, this enhances selfie quality and speed.
Users can now enjoy 4K recording in Cinematic Mode, with the option to select 30fps or 24fps, taking full advantage of the enhanced camera performance.
⦿ Emergency SOS via Satellite
One standout feature of the iPhone 15 is Emergency SOS via satellite. Apple has developed special antennas and equipment that allow the iPhone 15 to connect to a satellite, even miles above the Earth’s surface. While primarily designed for emergency situations, users can also use it to share their location in the wilderness with friends and family.
The feature guides users on pointing the iPhone in the right direction to achieve the best satellite signal. Messages sent via satellite may take anywhere from 15 seconds to several minutes to relay. This feature, launched in November 2022, will remain free until late 2024.
⦿ Crash Detection
The iPhone 15 lineup, along with select Apple Watch models, introduces Crash Detection. This feature utilizes purpose-built sensors and advanced algorithms to detect severe car crashes. In case of a crash, the iPhone or Apple Watch will automatically contact emergency services. Users also have the option to alert emergency contacts.
The system relies on sensors such as a high dynamic range gyroscope, high g-force accelerometer, barometer, GPS, microphone, and advanced motion algorithms to determine crash severity and type. It’s important to note that minor collisions won’t trigger Crash Detection.
⦿ Ports and Battery Life
The Lightning port remains on the iPhone 15, dispelling rumors of a USB-C transition. Charging speed remains at 20W, and Apple claims improved battery life. The 6.1-inch iPhone 15 is rated for up to 20 hours of normal use, while the larger 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus boasts a remarkable battery life of up to 26 hours video plaback.
Both models support fast charging, with a 20W charger providing a 50% charge in approximately 30 minutes. MagSafe accessories and charging continue to be supported, with magnets aligning products to the center of the iPhone.
⦿ Processor, Biometrics, and Wireless
The iPhone 15 is equipped with the A16 Bionic chip, while the Pro models use the A15 Bionic. This chip features a 6-core CPU with 2 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, as well as a 15-core Neural Engine for advanced machine learning tasks. A 5-core GPU enhances processing in various apps and across the system.
Face ID remains unchanged, housed behind the same-sized notch as the iPhone 14. However, iOS 17 allows users to unlock the iPhone 15 in portrait or landscape orientation.
While WiFi connectivity, 5G, and the U1 chip haven’t seen updates, the iPhone 15 incorporates Bluetooth 5.3. This improved wireless standard enhances compatibility with accessories such as the AirPods Pro 2.
⦿ iPhone 15 Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will be available in muted color options (Yellow, Black, Pink, Blue,Green), and storage configurations include 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. Wireless carriers are expected to offer incentives and promotions, potentially reducing the upfront cost of the devices.
The iPhone 15 starts at $1,299, while the larger iPhone 15 Plus starts at $1,449. Both models are set to launch on September 22, 2023, offering consumers a range of choices and innovative features to explore.
As we eagerly await the release of the iPhone 15, Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartphone technology, delivering improvements in camera capabilities, emergency features, and overall user experience.
