Apple is on the brink of unveiling its latest additions to the iPhone lineup as the tech behemoth enhances its flagship smartphone.
The US company is gearing up to introduce the new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, succeeding last year’s iPhone 14 models. Additionally, it is expected to revamp its Apple Watch lineup.
Apple is set to host the launch event, dubbed “Wanderlust,” at the Steve Jobs Theatre located within Apple Park in California. This event holds significant importance for Apple, given the current global decline in demand for new smartphones, reaching a decade-low. Moreover, Apple has grappled with its lengthiest slump in smartphone sales since 2016, with iPhone revenues dipping over the summer.
Here’s an overview of the key details about the iPhone 15 launch:
Launch Date and Where to Watch:
The iPhone 15 event is scheduled for 6 pm BST on Tuesday, September 12 (or 10 am local time in California). You can tune in to the live stream of the event on YouTube.
Release Date:
Traditionally, Apple announces each new iPhone on a Tuesday, with pre-orders becoming available later in the same week. It is anticipated that pre-orders for the iPhone 15 will commence on Friday, September 15, followed by wider availability through networks on Friday, September 22.
Apple is expected to introduce two iPhone 15 Pro models: a standard-sized iPhone 15 Pro with a 6.1-inch display and a larger iPhone 15 Pro Max with a 6.7-inch screen. Additionally, two slightly less powerful smartphones, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, are expected to debut.
Supply chain experts have suggested that the release of the iPhone 15 Pro Max might be slightly delayed compared to the others, possibly to October. There have also been reports suggesting that Apple might rename the phone from “Max” to “Ultra.”
Notable Features of the iPhone 15:
While the new iPhone 15 is expected to offer incremental upgrades compared to previous generations, all four models will receive refinements in comparison to the iPhone 14 lineup.
Unlike some competitors, Apple is not anticipated to reintroduce fingerprint sensors embedded in the phone’s screen or on the back.
The iPhone 15 range will be equipped with an upgraded microchip, the A17 bionic, expected to be a state-of-the-art 3-nanometer processor manufactured by Taiwanese company TSMC. This chip is likely to enhance the phone’s performance and improve its battery life.
The Pro models of the phone are said to feature a titanium frame instead of stainless steel, potentially increasing durability while reducing weight.
It is expected that all Apple iPhones will feature the “dynamic island” screen design, eliminating the “notch” seen on older models since the iPhone X. Instead, it will incorporate an adaptive display around a punch-hole camera at the top of the phone.
Analysts anticipate significant camera upgrades for the entry-level iPhone 15 and 15 Plus models, including a more powerful wide camera with 48MP. The advanced iPhone 15 Pro models are expected to offer further enhancements, including a “periscope” camera lens for enhanced zoom capabilities. Camera upgrades are anticipated to be a critical selling point.
Leaked renders suggest that these camera enhancements may result in a larger camera bump on the back of the phone. The glass screen is expected to curve slightly around the edges, and several reports claim that the current mute button on the side of the phone will be replaced with a more versatile “action” button that can be customized for different functions.
Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 17, is expected to be released concurrently with the iPhone 15’s launch, featuring new features such as a journal app.
Changes in Charging Cable for the iPhone 15:
One of the most noticeable changes will be the introduction of a new charging cable and port. Due to an EU regulation aimed at reducing electronic waste and standardizing charging connectors, Apple will replace its proprietary “lightning” cable with a USB-C cable for the iPhone 15. This change will apply globally, not just within the EU.
While this transition may render some older cables obsolete, USB-C is well-regarded for its fast-charging capabilities and is already widely used for various devices, including most Android smartphones.
Apple Watch and Other Updates:
Apple is also expected to unveil the Apple Watch Series 9 with a more powerful processor. It remains to be seen whether the upgrade will extend to the Apple Watch Ultra, the more sporty and durable version introduced last year.
Additionally, the shift to USB-C for iPhones is expected to prompt a redesign of the charging case for Apple’s AirPod headphones, if not updates to the headphones themselves.
Apple enthusiasts may also anticipate more details about Apple’s VR headset, the Vision Pro, teased earlier this year but not expected to launch until the following year.
Pricing of the iPhone 15:
While the exact pricing of the new iPhone remains undisclosed, indications suggest it may come with a higher price tag. Last year, the iPhone 14 started at £849, while the iPhone 14 Pro began at £1,099. These prices generated headlines due to inflation pushing up the cost of Apple’s new phones. The iPhone 14 Pro saw a £150 increase compared to its equivalent, the iPhone 13 Pro, and the standard iPhone 14 was £70 more expensive.
Barclays analysts expect the iPhone 15 lineup to command a higher price point, with the iPhone 15 Pro potentially costing around $100 more and the iPhone 15 Pro Max ranging between $100 to $200 more.
It remains to be seen whether inflation will push the price even higher.
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