Apple’s standard smartphone range now incorporates USB-C, an enhanced 48MP camera, a faster chip, and the dynamic island design
The iPhone 15 marks Apple’s ongoing strategy of gradually introducing features from its top Pro-line phones to other models. However, even with the addition of the dynamic island design, an upgraded camera, a faster chip, and USB-C, the standard iPhone may still come across as somewhat unremarkable.
In the UK, the regular iPhone for 2023 receives a £50 price reduction, now priced at £799 (€949/$799/A$1,499), although this price cut is not universal across other regions. This positions it approximately £200 cheaper than the similarly sized iPhone 15 Pro, with a larger variant available for an additional £100.
Maintaining the same aluminum and glass composition as the preceding years, the iPhone 15 features chamfered aluminum edges for a softer touch, though this is noticeable only without a case. The screen boasts double the brightness of previous models, enhancing outdoor visibility. However, it lacks the always-on display mode and faster refresh rate for smoother scrolling present in the Pro iPhone models and comparable Android competitors in the same price range.
The longstanding six-year-old notch design, situated at the screen’s top to conceal the selfie camera and Face ID system, has been replaced by the smaller dynamic island. This design alteration was initially introduced on the iPhone 14 Pro last year. The dynamic island proves helpful for displaying timers and other information, and it’s less obtrusive when not in use. The mute switch on the side remains part of the iPhone 15, retaining its position, whereas the Pro models feature a button in its place this year.
Additionally, the phone incorporates the A16 Bionic chip, carried over from the iPhone 14 Pro in the previous year. Despite its age, this chip remains one of the fastest available, contributing to the phone’s responsive performance. The battery life is comparable to the iPhone 14, lasting up to 48 hours—a commendable duration for a relatively compact smartphone in 2023. This means users can expect to charge the iPhone 15 approximately every two days, requiring about 110 minutes from a flat battery using a USB-C power adapter of 20W or higher (not included).
Introduced this year is the USB-C port, aligning with the other iPhones for 2023, resulting in a departure from the Lightning cable and associated accessories you may own. The advantage is the ability to charge the iPhone 15 using virtually any power adapter and USB-C cable, extending compatibility beyond Apple devices to include those for laptops, tablets, and Android phones. Additionally, a variety of USB-C accessories, such as game controllers, SD card readers, and display cables, can be utilized. It’s important to note, however, that the iPhone 15 is constrained to the same USB 2.0 speeds as its predecessors equipped with Lightning ports.
Specifications
Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED) with 460ppi
Processor: Apple A16 Bionic
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB
Operating System: iOS 17
Camera: 48MP + 12MP rear, 12MP front-facing
Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C (2.0), Satellite, UWB, GNSS
Water Resistance: IP68 (6 meters for 30 minutes)
Dimensions: 147.8 x 71.6 x 7.8mm
Weight: 171g
Sustainability
According to Apple, the battery is expected to surpass 500 full-charge cycles, retaining at least 80% of its original capacity. If replacement becomes necessary, the cost is £95. Screen repairs outside the warranty period are priced at £289.
The iPhone 15 incorporates recycled materials such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tin, and tungsten. Apple provides a comprehensive breakdown of the phone’s environmental impact in its report. Additionally, the company offers trade-in programs and free recycling initiatives, extending to non-Apple products.
Upgraded dual-camera
The iPhone 15 is equipped with a dual-camera system on the rear, comprising an enhanced 48-megapixel main camera alongside a 12MP ultrawide, akin to the setup in the previous year’s model.
The primary camera defaults to capturing 24MP images, an improvement from the previous 12MP, delivering more appealing and detailed photos under various lighting conditions. While it can capture full 48MP images, optimal results are achieved in very bright light. Retaining the 2x optical zoom from the previous year’s Pro models, it focuses on the center of the sensor.
A noteworthy enhancement is the main photo mode’s automatic capture of depth information when detecting people or pets. This enables users to refocus images and convert them into portrait mode shots during post-editing. Additionally, this feature allows simultaneous use of night mode, significantly improving low-light portraits.
While the absence of an extended optical zoom places the standard iPhone behind the Pro models with their advanced photography and videography features, the camera consistently delivers aesthetically pleasing photos with minimal effort.
Price
The starting price for the iPhone 15 is £799 (€949/$799/A$1,499) with 128GB of storage.
In contrast, the iPhone 15 Plus is priced at £899, the iPhone 15 Pro at £999, the Samsung Galaxy S23 at £849, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 at £1,049, the Google Pixel 7 at £599, and the Fairphone 5 at £649.
Verdict
For individuals with smartphones dating back around five years, the iPhone 15 represents a significant advancement with its swift processor, extended battery life, vibrant display, and the practical inclusion of the USB-C port.
The influence trickling down from the iPhone Pro models adds an element of intrigue. The dynamic island, borrowed from the 14 Pro, indeed enhances the outdated notch design. The 48MP main camera captures more intricate details, and the automatic portrait mode proves to be a noteworthy addition.
Nevertheless, the familiar drawbacks of the standard iPhone persist from previous iterations. The absence of an extended zoom is a letdown, the lack of an always-on display or a high refresh rate for the screen is a notable omission, and the subdued color options for the device’s body might appear too faded. While these factors aren’t deal-breakers, they are features present in competing devices at a similar price point.
The iPhone 15 is a commendable phone. However, it falls short of the level of excitement one might expect given its price. For a more thrilling iPhone experience, opting for the 15 Pro is recommended, or exploring alternatives within the Android ecosystem.