Apple officially announced an autumn new product launch conference scheduled for 1 a.m. on September 13th, Beijing time. At this conference, the long-awaited iPhone 15 series will make its appearance. So far, numerous leaks have provided us with a wealth of information about the iPhone 15. The new phone is set to undergo significant upgrades in terms of appearance design, hardware configuration, and software functions. In the following sections, we will provide a detailed introduction to these upgrades, helping you decide whether it’s time to upgrade your phone.
New Color Options and Smart Island Feature
The first piece of exciting news regarding the appearance design is that the new Smart Island design, introduced last year, will not be limited to select versions—it will be available for the regular iPhone 15 as well. The Smart Island effectively conceals the substantial hole-punch on the front screen, showcasing Apple’s clever innovation. The Smart Island was a closely guarded secret last year and left a lasting impression during the press conference.
However, despite the Smart Island upgrade for the regular iPhone 15, the screen will maintain a 60Hz refresh rate, which can be quite frustrating. Apple’s precision in design is undeniable.
If you haven’t experienced a high refresh rate before, the regular iPhone 15 should suffice. However, once you’ve savored the silky smooth experience of a high refresh rate, returning to 60Hz will undoubtedly feel like a step back. With numerous Android phones offering high refresh rates, the premium price of the iPhone 15 becomes justified for those seeking an enhanced experience.
Back Panel Updates and Titanium Alloy
The changes to the back panel are relatively minor and resemble previous generations. Apple’s dedicated fan base has grown accustomed to this. This year’s iPhone 15 Pro will likely introduce a unique color option called “Titan Gray.” This new shade is slightly darker than the existing silver/white but lighter than space black. Your personal preference may vary, but at first glance, it resembles ordinary white.
Furthermore, the iPhone 15 Pro might offer a titanium alloy version. Apple has shown a preference for titanium alloy in recent years due to its lighter, thinner, and more durable characteristics, albeit at a higher price point—potentially exceeding 10,000 yuan. This may not be ideal for budget-conscious consumers, but it undeniably exudes a premium quality.
The changes in appearance, although not excessive, are noteworthy. If you already own the iPhone 14 Pro from the previous year, an upgrade may not be necessary. However, if you are still using a notched screen, the transition to the Smart Island design is worth considering.
Bionic A17 Chip
The second major focus of the iPhone 15 series centers around the A17 processor. Last year’s A16 processor, manufactured at 4nm, has demonstrated impressive performance over the past year. The A17 processor set to debut this year utilizes a 3nm process technology, which promises a 25-30% reduction in power consumption and a 10-15% improvement in performance. Reports have long hinted at TSMC’s production of 3nm process chips in preparation for the iPhone 15 series.
Following the pattern from last year’s iPhone 14, the regular iPhone 15 model may not come equipped with the 3nm A17 chip. This cutting-edge technology is likely to be exclusive to the Pro and Pro Max models. Nevertheless, the A16 chip, with its 4nm process, is more than capable in an era of surplus performance.
For users who don’t prioritize extreme performance, upgrading to the A17 may not be necessary, and it might require additional cooling measures for gaming. If your current model features any processor from the A14 generation onwards, there’s no pressing need to consider the A17. Of course, if your device is significantly older, purchasing the iPhone 15 Pro directly may be a better choice than opting for the regular iPhone 15.
Cameras and Pricing
Major upgrades in the imaging system of the iPhone 15 series may not be expected. The regular version will continue to feature two cameras, while the flagship version will boast three. The primary camera is anticipated to offer 48 Megapixels, along with sensor enhancements. Apple’s reputation for realistic color reproduction and standout video recording capabilities in the market remains intact. If these features are essential to you, it’s advisable to opt for the iPhone15 Pro, which offers superior performance.
Finally, let’s address pricing. The new model is likely to see a price increase of approximately $100. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro was $999, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max began at $1,099. This suggests that the starting price for the iPhone 15 Pro may range from $1,099 to $1,199, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max starting at $1,199 to $1,299.
When converted into RMB, the starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro exceeds 8,000 yuan ($1,099). In this price range, it competes directly with Samsung. It’s undoubtedly a significant investment, and if budget constraints aren’t an issue, it’s worth considering. However, for those on a tighter budget, waiting for discounts or considering the iPhone 14 Pro may be more prudent.
The starting prices for the regular iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are expected to remain consistent with the previous generation, hovering around 6,000 yuan ($825). In this price range, Chinese flagship smartphones like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra and OPPO Find X6 Pro offer competitive options. These Chinese flagship models provide a superior overall user experience, featuring advancements in imaging, display quality, materials, and more.
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