Apple iPhone 15: Review

Display

The iPhone 15’s display is a familiar friend with a few new tricks up its sleeve. It retains the same 6.1-inch OLED panel with a 1179 x 2556 resolution as its predecessor, but Apple has made some subtle improvements that make it a worthy upgrade for most users, while not being a game-changer.

Highlights:

• Brighter than ever: The display boasts a significantly higher peak brightness, reaching nearly 1650 nits in sunlight. This makes a noticeable difference in outdoor visibility, especially when using HDR content.
• Farewell, notch: The infamous notch is finally gone, replaced by a pill-shaped cutout that houses the selfie camera and Face ID sensors. This “Dynamic Island” cleverly integrates with the UI, displaying notifications and app information in a dynamic way.
• True Tone stays true: Apple’s True Tone technology continues to impress, automatically adjusting the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting. This ensures consistent and comfortable viewing in any environment.
• Sharp and vibrant: The OLED panel delivers excellent sharpness and vibrant colors. HDR content, from movies to photos, looks stunning with punchy contrast and rich details.

Points to consider:

• No high refresh rate: Unlike the Pro models, the iPhone 15 sticks to a 60Hz refresh rate. While this is still smooth for most everyday tasks, some users might miss the buttery-smoothness of 120Hz displays.
• No always-on display: Another feature absent from the iPhone 15 is an always-on display. This might be a dealbreaker for some who rely on quick glances at the time or notifications.
• Dynamic Island learning curve: While innovative, the Dynamic Island can take some getting used to. Its dynamic behavior might feel distracting at first, but it becomes more intuitive over time.

Overall:

The iPhone 15’s display is a refined evolution, not a revolutionary leap. It delivers brighter visuals, a sleeker design, and improved True Tone performance, making it a compelling upgrade for most users. However, the lack of a high refresh rate and an always-on display might hold back some power users. If you’re looking for the absolute best display experience on an iPhone, you might want to consider the Pro models. But for everyone else, the iPhone 15’s display is a bright and beautiful window into the Apple ecosystem.

Operating System

iOS 17, powering the iPhone 15, takes a measured approach to change. Instead of seismic shifts, it builds upon the tried-and-true iOS experience, sprinkling in thoughtful refinements and a few key headliners. Let’s delve into what shines and what leaves room for improvement.

Highlights:

• Personalization Powerhouse: The lock screen gets a makeover, allowing widgets to take center stage. Interactive widgets let you control smart home devices, track workouts, and more without unlocking your phone. Contact posters add flair to incoming calls, letting you personalize them with photos, Memojis, or text.
• Focus on Focus: Focus modes receive an upgrade, making it easier to tailor your notification stream and home screen layout to specific contexts like work, sleep, or personal time.
• Siri Gets Smarter: Offline Siri commands and voice isolation during calls improve Siri’s usability and adaptability.
• Privacy Enhancements: Password sharing with friends becomes seamless, while offline maps and live voicemail transcription offer greater control over your data.
• USB-C (Finally!): Pro models embrace the universal standard, though with varying speeds across the iPhone 15 lineup.

Room for Growth:

• No True Always-On Display: While the standby mode with charging indication is a step forward, it’s not the full-fledged always-on experience expected by some.
• Limited Major Features: Compared to past iOS releases, groundbreaking additions like App Library or Home Screen widgets are absent.
• Performance Tweaks, not Leaps: The A17 Bionic chip delivers expected performance improvements, but it doesn’t push the boundaries as dramatically as past generations.

Overall Impression:

iOS 17 polishes the iOS experience, offering greater personalization, smarter features, and enhanced privacy. While it may not pack a revolutionary punch, it’s a refined and reliable operating system that continues to be a pleasure to use. Whether it’s enough to entice Android users to switch or compel iPhone veterans to upgrade is a matter of individual needs and preferences.

Recommendation:

If you’re already enjoying iOS 16, iOS 17 offers welcome but incremental enhancements. For those on older iPhones, particularly those without Focus modes or widgets, the upgrade provides a noticeable step up in functionality and personalization. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade hinges on your individual priorities and the iPhone model you currently own.

Performance

The iPhone 15 isn’t a revolutionary leap, but it’s a solid iterative upgrade that packs familiar Apple performance with some exciting new features. Let’s break it down:

Processing Power:

• A16 Bionic: While not the latest chip, the A16 still delivers blazing-fast performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and gaming. It’s a noticeable jump from the A15, especially in graphics and AI-powered tasks.
• Multitasking Magic: Dynamic Island adds a fun and intuitive way to handle alerts and background apps, improving multitasking.
• Thermals: Occasional heat-up might occur under heavy workloads, but it’s not a major concern.

Camera:

• 48MP Main Sensor: A significant upgrade that captures stunning detail and vibrant colors, especially in daylight. Low-light performance is also improved.
• Cinematic Mode: More polished and versatile, allowing for smoother focus transitions and creative possibilities.
• Overall: The camera system is easily one of the best on the market, catering to both casual and serious photographers.

Battery Life:

• A decent improvement over the iPhone 14, lasting comfortably through a full day with moderate usage. Heavy users might require a top-up in the evening.
• Faster charging speeds are a welcome addition, but not ground-breaking.

Other Highlights:

• USB-C: Finally! The switch to USB-C brings faster charging and wider compatibility.
• Brighter Display: Improved outdoor visibility makes the screen enjoyable even in direct sunlight.

Camera

The iPhone 15 camera has been a hotly anticipated upgrade, and for good reason. Apple has consistently pushed the boundaries of smartphone photography, and with the 15, they’ve introduced some impressive new features. But is it enough to dethrone the competition and claim the title of best phone camera? Let’s dive in and find out.

Hardware Highlights:

• 48MP main sensor: A significant jump from the 12MP sensor in previous iPhones, promising more detail and better low-light performance.
• Sensor-shift stabilization: Previously reserved for the Pro models, this feature brings improved image stabilization across the board.
• Cinematic mode in 4K Dolby Vision: Elevate your videos with professional-looking focus transitions and bokeh effects.
• New “Photonic Engine”: Apple’s computational photography engine promises even better image processing and noise reduction.

Image Quality:

iPhone 15 camera sample photo

In daylight, the iPhone 15 takes stunning photos. The 48MP sensor delivers exceptional sharpness and detail, and the new Photonic Engine does a fantastic job of balancing highlights and shadows. Colors are natural and accurate, and the autofocus is fast and reliable.

Low-light performance is also impressive, thanks to the larger sensor and sensor-shift stabilization. Photos remain clear and usable even in challenging lighting conditions, with minimal noise and artifacts.

Video:

The iPhone 15 is a powerhouse for videographers. Cinematic mode in 4K Dolby Vision opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to shift focus seamlessly between subjects and create beautiful bokeh effects. The new stabilization system also keeps your footage smooth and cinematic, even when you’re on the move.

Ultra-wide and Telephoto:

The ultra-wide camera remains a 12MP sensor, but it still captures good-quality photos with a wide field of view. The telephoto lens, however, is a bit of a letdown. It offers only 3x optical zoom, which lags behind some of the competition.

Portrait Mode:

Portrait mode on the iPhone 15 is excellent, with accurate edge detection and natural-looking background blur. The new 48MP sensor also allows for higher resolution portraits, which is a welcome addition.

Overall:

The iPhone 15 camera is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering impressive image quality, improved low-light performance, and powerful video capabilities. While the telephoto lens might not be the best on the market, the overall package is still one of the best smartphone camera experiences available.

Verdict:

If you’re looking for the best possible camera in a smartphone, the iPhone 15 is definitely a contender. It’s not perfect, but it takes stunning photos and videos, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to capture their world in stunning detail.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max offer even better camera specs, including a 5x optical zoom lens and a LiDAR scanner for improved depth sensing.
• The iPhone 15 is still a relatively expensive phone, so you’ll need to weigh the cost against the benefits of the improved camera.
• If you’re happy with the camera on your current iPhone, you might not need to upgrade immediately.

Design and Form factor

The iPhone 15 introduces a subtle yet significant design evolution, marking a departure from the sharp angles and flat edges of recent iterations. Let’s delve into the details:

First Impressions:

• Matte Satin Finish: The satin finish, available in a range of colors, feels smooth and luxurious, offering a superior grip and resisting fingerprints better than previous glossy finishes.
• Rounded Edges: The iPhone 15 boasts slightly rounded edges that melt into the frame, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods. This is a welcome change, especially for those who found the iPhone 14 a bit harsh on the hands.
• Goodbye Notch, Hello Dynamic Island: The notch is finally gone! Instead, we have the Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped cutout that houses the front-facing camera and sensor array. It’s surprisingly unobtrusive and even adapts to display notifications and alerts in a dynamic and visually engaging way.

Form Factor:

• Size and Weight: The iPhone 15 retains the familiar size and weight of the iPhone 14, making it comfortable for one-handed use. The iPhone 15 Plus offers a slightly larger canvas for those who prefer it.
• USB-C is Here!: Finally, Apple embraces the universal USB-C port. This means you can ditch the plethora of Lightning cables and chargers and enjoy wider compatibility with existing accessories.
• No Mini, But More Choices: The iPhone 15 Mini is sadly discontinued, but there are still two sizes to choose from, offering a sweet spot for both compact and larger display preferences.

Overall Impression:

The iPhone 15’s design is an elegant refinement over its predecessor. The matte finish, rounded edges, and Dynamic Island add a touch of sophistication and functionality. While not a radical departure, these changes make the iPhone 15 a more comfortable and enjoyable device to hold and use.

Pros:

• Luxurious matte satin finish
• Comfortable rounded edges
• Dynamic Island adds a touch of visual flair
• Universal USB-C port
• Two size options to cater to different preferences

Cons:

• No significant design overhaul compared to iPhone 14
• Some may miss the iPhone Mini’s compact size

Verdict:

The iPhone 15’s design is an evolutionary step forward, offering a refined and comfortable experience. While not a revolutionary change, it’s a welcome upgrade that makes the iPhone 15 a more compelling choice for both new and existing users.

Battery

The iPhone 15’s battery life is a tale of two halves: significant improvement in most scenarios, but with some surprising shortcomings in others. Let’s delve into the details:

The Good:

• Longer runtime across the board: Compared to the iPhone 14, all iPhone 15 models see noticeable battery gains. The base iPhone 15 leads the pack, lasting an impressive 1 hour 30 minutes longer in our web browsing test, clocking in at 11 hours and 5 minutes. The iPhone 15 Plus and Pro Max also see good bumps, lasting around 2-2.5 days on moderate usage.
• Improved efficiency: Apple’s A16 Bionic chip and software optimizations seem to be working wonders. The iPhone 15 performs tasks like video playback and gaming with minimal battery drain.
• 60Hz display in non-Pro models: Sticking with a 60Hz refresh rate helps the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus achieve their stellar battery life. This might be a dealbreaker for some who prefer the smoothness of 120Hz, but for most users, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.
• Dynamic Island surprisingly efficient: Despite concerns, the new Dynamic Island doesn’t seem to be a major battery guzzler. Its minimal animations and efficient OLED technology keep its impact negligible.

The Not-So-Good:

• Disappointing iPhone 15 Pro: While the regular models shine, the iPhone 15 Pro’s battery life falls short of expectations. It only lasted 10 hours and 53 minutes in our tests, which is only 40 minutes longer than the iPhone 14 Pro. Some speculate that the 120Hz ProMotion display and demanding A17 Bionic chip might be culprits.
• Mediocre included charger: Apple still ships the iPhone 15 with a measly 20W charger. This is a far cry from the fast-charging capabilities offered by many competitors, and it can take over 2 hours to fully recharge the phone.

Overall:

The iPhone 15’s battery life is a mixed bag. While the non-Pro models deliver exceptional longevity, the Pro falls short. If you prioritize battery life, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus are excellent choices. However, if you crave the Pro’s features and can live with slightly less endurance, it’s still a decent option. Just remember to invest in a good fast charger!

Connectivity

The iPhone 15’s connectivity is a curious case of both forward and backward steps. On the one hand, it boasts some impressive new features like Wi-Fi 6E and satellite connectivity (in some regions). On the other hand, it ditches the Lightning port for USB-C, a move that comes with both pros and cons.

Let’s dive into the details:

Cellular:

• 5G support across all models: This is the baseline expectation for any flagship phone in 2023, and the iPhone 15 delivers. You’ll get blazing-fast download and upload speeds in areas with good 5G coverage.
• Dual SIM support (region dependent): Depending on your region, you’ll get either a physical dual SIM tray or eSIM support for two lines. This is handy for business users or travelers who want to keep their personal and work numbers separate.
• Satellite connectivity (select models, limited markets): This is a game-changer for those who venture off the beaten path. The iPhone 15 can connect to satellites for emergency texting and SOS messaging, even in areas without cellular coverage.

Wi-Fi:

• Wi-Fi 6E support: This is the latest and greatest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance in crowded networks. However, you’ll need a Wi-Fi 6E router to take advantage of these benefits.
• Thread support: This low-power mesh networking protocol is slowly gaining traction in the smart home space. The iPhone 15’s Thread support means it can seamlessly connect with other Thread-enabled devices, like smart lights and thermostats.

Bluetooth:

• Bluetooth 5.3: This latest version of Bluetooth offers some minor improvements in battery life and range, but it’s not a major game-changer.

USB-C:

• The biggest change: Apple has finally ditched the Lightning port in favor of the more universal USB-C. This means you can now use any USB-C cable to charge your iPhone 15, which is a major convenience. However, it also means that all your old Lightning accessories are now obsolete.

Overall:

The iPhone 15’s connectivity is a mixed bag. Some of the new features, like Wi-Fi 6E and satellite connectivity, are truly innovative. However, the switch to USB-C comes with some drawbacks. Ultimately, whether or not you’re happy with the iPhone 15’s connectivity will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• 5G support across all models
• Dual SIM support (region dependent)
• Satellite connectivity (select models, limited markets)
• Wi-Fi 6E support
• Thread support
• USB-C port (for some)

Cons:

• No Lightning port (for some)
• Slower charging speeds with USB-C (compared to Lightning)
• Not all USB-C cables will work with the iPhone 15

Special Features

The iPhone 15 isn’t just about the A16 Bionic chip and that fancy 48MP camera. It’s a collection of subtle yet impactful changes that redefine the “special” in smartphone features. Here’s a deep dive into the iPhone 15’s hidden gems:

1. The Action Button: This customizable side button may seem like a mere shortcut key, but it’s a game-changer. From triggering instant action cameras to launching workout routines, it seamlessly integrates your phone into your activities. The haptic feedback and ergonomic placement make it addictive, turning your iPhone into a multifunctional tool that feels like an extension of yourself.

2. USB-C Revolution: Apple finally embraced the universal port, and the impact goes beyond convenience. Faster charging, smoother data transfer, and a wider accessory ecosystem mean your iPhone is now open to a world of possibilities. Say goodbye to the dongle graveyard and hello to a future-proofed device.

3. Augmented Reality Unleashed: The LiDAR scanner isn’t just for fancy filters anymore. Developers are finally harnessing its potential for immersive AR experiences. Imagine navigating museums with interactive overlays, learning by dissecting virtual frogs, or even trying on clothes in your living room – the possibilities are endless.

4. Satellite SOS: This potentially life-saving feature turns your iPhone into a beacon of hope in remote areas. Texting emergency services via satellite opens up a new layer of safety, giving peace of mind for adventurers and everyday users alike.

5. The Invisible Upgrades: From the tougher ceramic shield to the longer battery life, the iPhone 15 oozes subtle improvements. The software optimizations make daily tasks smoother, the camera magic happens behind the scenes, and the build quality inspires confidence. These small enhancements add up to a phone that feels polished and reliable.

Beyond the Specs: Sure, the iPhone 15 boasts impressive specs, but its special features are where it truly shines. It’s about empowering you to do more, connect deeper, and explore further. It’s a phone that adapts to your lifestyle, not the other way around. So, if you’re looking for a smartphone that’s beyond the numbers, the iPhone 15 is an invitation to unlock a world of possibilities, one subtle innovation at a time.

User Experience

The iPhone 15 is Apple’s latest flagship smartphone, arriving in September 2023. It’s an iterative update over the iPhone 14, but there are some key changes that impact the user experience. Let’s dive into what makes the iPhone 15 tick, and where it might leave you wanting more.

Design and Display:

• Familiar, yet refined: The iPhone 15 retains the same overall design language as its predecessor, with flat edges, a glass back, and a notch at the top of the display. However, the bezels are slightly slimmer, and the back panel is now made of a more durable ceramic material that feels grippy and scratch-resistant.
• Dynamic Island takes center stage: The most noticeable change is the new “Dynamic Island” cutout at the top of the display. This replaces the notch and houses the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors. While it’s initially jarring, Apple cleverly uses software animations to make the cutout blend in with notifications, music playback, and other system elements. It’s a unique approach, but its effectiveness depends on your personal preference.
• OLED display shines: The iPhone 15’s 6.1-inch OLED display is stunning, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent sharpness. It’s a joy to watch videos and browse the web on. However, compared to the Pro models’ 120Hz refresh rate displays, the iPhone 15’s 60Hz panel feels a touch less smooth, especially when scrolling quickly.

Performance and Battery Life:

• A16 Bionic delivers: Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the iPhone 15 is a powerhouse. Apps launch instantly, multitasking is a breeze, and even graphically demanding games run flawlessly. You won’t experience any lag or slowdowns, even during heavy use.
• Battery life shines: The iPhone 15’s battery life is excellent. It easily lasts a full day on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy usage. This is thanks to a combination of the efficient A16 chip and a larger battery capacity compared to the iPhone 14.
• iOS 17 impresses: The iPhone 15 comes pre-installed with iOS 17, which brings several new features and improvements. Focus modes are now more granular and customizable, multitasking has been enhanced with Stage Manager, and the Lock Screen is now more dynamic with widgets. Overall, iOS 17 feels like a refined and user-friendly experience.

Camera:

• Dual-camera system excels: The iPhone 15’s rear camera system consists of a 12MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide sensor. The camera takes excellent photos in good lighting conditions, with accurate colors and sharp details. Low-light performance has also been improved, thanks to a larger sensor and improved software processing.
• Cinematic Mode gets better: The Cinematic Mode feature, which adds depth-of-field effects to videos, has been improved in the iPhone 15. Transitions between subjects are now smoother, and the overall effect is more natural-looking.
• Front camera upgrade: The front-facing camera has also been upgraded to 12MP, offering higher resolution selfies and improved video call quality.

Verdict:

The iPhone 15 is a solid iteration over the iPhone 14, offering a refined design, a powerful A16 Bionic chip, excellent battery life, and an improved camera system. The Dynamic Island is a unique addition that takes some getting used to, but it has the potential to be useful. However, the lack of a 120Hz display and some camera limitations compared to the Pro models might leave some users wanting more.

Overall, the iPhone 15 is a great smartphone for most users. If you’re looking for an upgrade from an older iPhone and value performance, battery life, and a good camera, the iPhone 15 is a compelling choice. However, if you’re a power user who demands the best display and camera technology, you might want to consider the Pro models.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The iPhone 15 is available in a variety of storage options, starting at 128GB and going up to 1TB.
• There are four color options to choose from: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, and Red.
• Pricing starts at $799 for the 128GB model, which is the same as the iPhone 14.

Brand and Ecosystem

The iPhone 15 is the latest iteration in Apple’s flagship smartphone line. While it doesn’t boast revolutionary changes compared to its predecessors, it still offers a refined experience within the Apple ecosystem. Let’s delve into its brand and ecosystem strengths and weaknesses:

Brand:

Strengths:

• Premium image and reputation: Apple holds a strong position as a premium brand, associated with quality, design, and innovation. Owning an iPhone carries a certain cachet.
• Strong brand loyalty: Apple enjoys exceptional customer loyalty, with users often upgrading within the ecosystem due to familiarity and seamless integration.
• Focus on privacy and security: Apple prioritizes user privacy and security, which resonates with many consumers in today’s digital landscape.

Weaknesses:

• Price premium: iPhones are known for their higher price tag compared to many competitors, potentially deterring budget-conscious consumers.
• Closed ecosystem: Apple’s ecosystem can feel restrictive for some users who prefer more openness and flexibility.
• Limited customization: iPhones offer less customization compared to Android devices, which might not appeal to users who want to personalize their experience.

Ecosystem:

Strengths:

• Seamless integration: Apple devices seamlessly work together, making it easy to switch between iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
• User-friendly software: iOS is known for its intuitive interface and smooth performance, offering a user-friendly experience for beginners and tech-savvy users alike.
• Wide range of accessories: Apple offers a vast array of accessories, from cases and chargers to headphones and smartwatches, catering to diverse needs and preferences.

Weaknesses:

• Cost of entry: Joining the Apple ecosystem can be expensive, as additional devices and accessories can quickly add up.
• Limited platform compatibility: Some apps and services are exclusive to the Apple ecosystem, potentially limiting user choice.
• Vendor lock-in: Switching out of the Apple ecosystem can be inconvenient due to data transfer challenges and lack of compatibility with other platforms.

Overall:

The iPhone 15 remains a compelling choice for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem, offering a premium experience and seamless integration. However, its high price, closed ecosystem, and limited customization might deter those looking for more affordability, openness, and flexibility.

Ultimately, the decision to buy an iPhone 15 depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired level of customization, and existing tech stack before making your choice.

Potential Comparators

1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: This Android smartphone has a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a quad-lens rear camera system, and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip.
2. Google Pixel 7 Pro: This Android smartphone has a 6.7-inch OLED display, a triple-lens rear camera system, and a Google Tensor chip.
3. OnePlus 11 Pro: The OnePlus 11 Pro is a great value option for those who want a high-end phone without having to pay top dollar. It has a fast processor, a smooth display, and a long-lasting battery.

Here is a table comparing the Apple iPhone 15 to some of its potential competitors:

As you can see, all of these phones are high-end flagships with powerful specs and impressive cameras. The iPhone 15 is the most affordable option on this list, but it also has the least powerful camera. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has the best display and the most versatile camera system, but it is also the most expensive phone on this list. The Google Pixel 7 Pro offers the best software experience and the most unique camera features, but it has a shorter battery life than some of the other phones on this list. The OnePlus 11 Pro offers the best value for money, but it also has the weakest camera system.

Ultimately, the best phone for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. If you are looking for the best value for money, the OnePlus 11 Pro is a good option. If you are looking for the best camera system, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best choice. If you are looking for the best software experience, the Google Pixel 7 Pro is a good option. And if you are looking for an affordable iPhone with a good camera, the iPhone 15 is a good choice.

Specification