Once every couple of years, Apple delivers substantial changes to its hardware, marking a significant evolution in the iPhone series. The iPhone 15, released in 2023, is not just another iteration; it’s a substantial leap forward, making it a compelling choice for those holding onto older models like the iPhone 12. While the external design may not show radical changes, the internal upgrades, including features borrowed from the previous year’s Pro models, make the iPhone 15 and its Plus variant worth serious consideration.
Design and Pricing
The iPhone 15 retains a familiar form factor, with subtle changes in dimensions and a reduced weight of 171g. The 6.1-inch OLED display now incorporates Apple’s Dynamic Island, borrowed from the 14 Pro series, providing a modern look comparable to higher-end models. Although lacking ProMotion and always-on features, the display boasts improved brightness, reaching up to 2,000 nits under sunlight.
In terms of pricing in India, the iPhone 15 starts at Rs. 79,900 for the 128GB variant, maintaining the pricing structure of its predecessor. However, the absence of a Product RED variant is notable. Apple continues to sell the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13, starting at Rs. 69,900 and Rs. 59,900, respectively. The bundled accessories now include a color-matched braided USB Type-C cable, reflecting Apple’s shift away from the Lightning connector.
Performance and Software
The iPhone 15 receives a notable upgrade with the A16 Bionic chip, previously featured in the iPhone 14 Pro models. Built on a 4nm process, this chipset delivers enhanced performance with a billion more transistors than the previous generation. With 6GB of RAM, stereo speakers, IP68 dust and water resistance, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and a TrueDepth camera for Face ID, the iPhone 15 is well-equipped.
Running on iOS 17, the device promises seamless updates for at least the next five years. New features include personalized Contact Posters, FaceTime message recording, and ongoing sub-version updates to address issues and introduce additional functionalities.
Performance and Battery Life
Daily performance on the iPhone 15 is commendable, with responsive apps, a vibrant display, and efficient handling of notifications around the Dynamic Island. The device handles games smoothly, showcasing its capabilities, especially with Apple Arcade titles. Benchmark numbers surpass many Android counterparts, with impressive scores in AnTuTu and Geekbench 6 tests.
Battery life remains a strong suit, delivering up to 20 hours of video playback, as claimed by Apple. In real-world usage, the device easily lasts a full day, with some margin for lighter use. Fast charging, supported separately, claims to charge up to 50% in half an hour with the optional 20W power adapter. Wireless charging is also present.
Camera Upgrades
While the iPhone 15 lacks a telephoto camera and macro capabilities in the ultra-wide lens, it compensates with a 48-megapixel main sensor borrowed from the 14 Pro. The 2X zoom level provides optical-quality magnification, utilizing a smaller crop of the sensor. The camera system supports recording up to 4K 60fps videos in Dolby Vision and introduces a new Smart HDR 5 photo processing engine for improved balance in shadows and highlights.
Daylight photography showcases excellent detail and balanced colors. The ultra-wide camera is competent, with minimal distortion. Noteworthy is the camera app’s ability to recognize animals and suggest background blur options. Low-light performance is commendable, managing noise well with good detail.
Reasons to Upgrade and Potential Drawbacks
The iPhone 15 presents a compelling upgrade option, especially for users with older models seeking advanced features. The incorporation of Pro-level features from the iPhone 14 Pro models, including the upgraded camera and Dynamic Island, adds significant value.
Reasons to Upgrade:
- Improved Camera: The 48MP main sensor and 2X optical zoom provide enhanced photography capabilities.
- Dynamic Island and Display: The introduction of Dynamic Island and a brighter display elevates the visual experience.
- Performance: The A16 Bionic chip ensures powerful and efficient performance.
- Battery Life: Reliable battery performance, offering a full day’s usage.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Pricing: The iPhone 15’s pricing in India, starting at nearly Rs. 80,000, may be a deterrent for some buyers.
- No Always-On Display: The absence of an always-on display feature, available in Pro models, is a missed opportunity.
- Last Year’s Chipset: While the A16 Bionic is powerful, the use of last year’s chipset may face increasing competition in the market.
- Charging Speed: The charging speed remains at 20W, with no improvement from previous models.
Verdict and Future Outlook
Despite its pricing, the iPhone 15 is a commendable upgrade, bridging the gap between standard and Pro models. For users desiring Pro-level features without the premium price tag, the iPhone 15 is a compelling choice. The device represents a significant leap forward in innovation and performance, offering users a tangible reason to upgrade. As technology continues to evolve, future iterations may address some drawbacks, but for now, the iPhone 15 stands as a flagship device worthy of consideration.
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