Apple iPhone 15 Models New Hidden Features
Unveiled on September 22, 2023, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are the newest additions to Apple’s lineup.
Apple iPhone 15 has been launched with exciting new features. If you are planning to buy the new iPhone 15 series (iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 15 Plus). In that case, you must be aware of these new features and advancements to decide whether you should buy it or feel comfortable with its predecessor, the iPhone 14 series. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss what are the new features of the iPhone 15 concerning design, camera, processor, battery life, and USB-C charging port.
iPhone 15 New Features
- Elegant Titanium design
- 1- and 6.7-inch display
- A17 Pro Chip
- Triple Lens Camera
- 5x Telephoto zoom (Pro Max only)
- USB-C Port
- New Action Button
- Enhanced battery size
Experience the next level of innovation with the iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 15 Plus equipped with cutting-edge features and advancements with the latest iOS 17 installed.
Some notable iPhone 15 features revolve around the camera and charging. In a welcome change, Apple has replaced the trademark Lightning cable with the more universal USB-C charging, aligning with new EU regulations on charging standards. This offers convenience by eliminating the need for multiple chargers and increases data transfer speeds (20x, according to Apple) with USB 3 support. However, USB-C charging is not exclusive to the iPhone, as other new features are being introduced on the iPhone 15 series.
Related: How Much Does the iPhone 15 Really Cost? A Comprehensive Guide
First and foremost, the new iPhone 15 features an elegant titanium design.
Design
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, with displays measuring 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches diagonally, respectively, maintain the overall design of their predecessors, the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. However, they now feature more contoured edges, enhancing the feel of the devices and giving them a more modern aesthetic.
One notable change in the iPhone 15 Pro models’ design is replacing stainless steel bands with titanium ones, encircling the glass front and back. Titanium offers a lighter weight than stainless steel, resulting in lighter devices. Additionally, it provides resistance to scratches and dings.
Drawing inspiration from the Apple Watch Ultra released in 2022, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max showcase a sleek titanium design known for its strength-to-weight ratio and application in spacecraft. As a result of this titanium build, the new Pro models are 10% lighter than their predecessors. Apple has also introduced a new substructure made of 100% recycled aluminum, aligning with its carbon neutrality goals for 2030. Notably, the iPhone 15 devices incorporate a battery using 100% recycled cobalt and introduce a new woven fabric case with 68% post-consumer recycled content, significantly reducing carbon emissions when compared to traditional leather cases.
The titanium bands are bonded with an internal aluminum frame to ensure strength and durability. The titanium finish adds a brushed, matte look, distinguishing the new iPhone 15 Pro models from their previous generation. Apple achieves this finish through precision machining, sanding, brushing, and blasting techniques. Users can choose from four colors: white, black, natural, and blue.
While the iPhone 15 Pro models have similar dimensions to the iPhone 14 Pro models, they are slightly thicker. The iPhone 15 Pro measures 5.77 inches (146.6 mm) in height, 2.78 inches (70.6 mm) in width, and 0.32 inches (8.25 mm) in thickness. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max measures 6.29 inches (159.9 mm) in height, 3.02 inches (76.7 mm) in width, and 0.32 inches (8.25 mm) in thickness. The iPhone 15 Pro weighs 6.60 ounces (187 grams), while the iPhone 15 Pro Max weighs 7.81 ounces (221 grams). These models are slightly heavier than their respective iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus counterparts but lighter than the previous Pro models.
The iPhone 15 Pro models sport an all-glass front, protected by Apple’s durable Ceramic Shield material, which boasts superior strength compared to other smartphone glass.
Related: iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 14 Pro: Which Model Should You Upgrade To?
Dynamic Island and Slimmed Down Bezels
The iPhone 15 Pro features a pill-shaped Dynamic Island that houses the TrueDepth camera equipment situated at the top of the display. The display bezels have also been noticeably slimmed down, providing more available screen space.
Internal Chassis and Button Layout
The iPhone 15 Pro features an internal chassis design, including antenna bands at the phone’s top and sides. You’ll find the power button on the right side, while the left features volume buttons and an Action button. Exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models, the customizable Action button can be set to perform various functions, such as activating the camera or shortcuts.
Connectivity and Port
The iPhone 15 Pro’s new features incorporate a 5G mmWave antenna beneath the power button. Notably, the iPhone 15 Pro models introduced a significant design change by adopting a USB-C port, replacing the Lightning port for charging. The bottom of the iPhone 15 Pro model also houses speaker holes and a microphone.
Related:
- Discover the Implications of the USB-C Charger for iPhone 15 Users
- Powering Up: A Comparison of 35w Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter and Compact Power Charger
SIM Slot and International Variants
While some countries have a physical SIM slot on the left side of the iPhone 15 Pro, the U.S. models have eliminated the physical SIM. Instead, the iPhone 15 Pro models in the U.S. rely on eSIM technology for network connectivity.
Camera Setup
The rear camera setup of the iPhone 15 Pro remains largely unchanged, featuring a triple-lens configuration for Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto cameras. The camera module also includes a True Tone flash, LiDAR Scanner, and microphone for enhanced photography and videography capabilities.
Water and Dust Resistance (IP68)
With an IP68 rating, the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max features water and dust intrusion resistance. These smartphones can withstand being submerged in water at a depth of up to six meters (19.7 feet) for up to 30 minutes. However, Apple advises avoiding intentional water exposure, as the rating does not guarantee permanent resistance.
Important Note on Water and Dust Resistance
Apple emphasizes that due to normal wear, water and dust resistance may deteriorate over time. Liquid damage is not covered by Apple’s standard warranty, reinforcing the need for caution when it comes to liquid exposure.
The A17 Pro Chip
A17 Pro Chip: Unleashing Unprecedented Performance on iPhone 15 Pro Models
Redefined GPU Experience: Unmatched Graphics Acceleration
Experience gaming like never before with the A17 Pro’s groundbreaking GPU advancements. Apple pioneers hardware-accelerated ray tracing, delivering remarkably fluid graphics and true-to-life lighting effects. Utilizing MetalFX upscaling, the GPU and Neural Engine generate high-resolution graphics without excessive power consumption. Enjoy console-quality games such as Resident Evil 4 and Death Stranding on the groundbreaking iPhone 15 Pro.
Unparalleled Performance: Benchmarks and Beyond
Geekbench benchmark results confirm the A17 Pro’s superior performance over its predecessor, the A16 Bionic. Achieving an impressive single-core score of 2,908 and a multi-core score of 7,238, the A17 Pro leaves no doubt about its exceptional capabilities.
Smartphone Gaming Takes a Leap
Unveiling the Power of Apple’s New Processor and Hardware-Accelerated Ray Tracing
During the Wonderlust event, where Apple showcased its highly anticipated 2023 iPhones, they demonstrated the impressive capabilities of their new processor. With hardware-accelerated ray tracing that boasts a 4x improvement over software-based solutions, the iPhone 15 Pro twins are set to make history as they introduce console titles, including popular games such as Resident Evil Village and Assassin’s Creed Mirage, to the realm of smartphone gaming.
RAM Specifications
The new Apple iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max features 8GB of RAM, an increase of 2GB compared to the iPhone 14 Pro models.
Storage Space Details
For storage, the iPhone 15 Pro offers a base capacity of 128GB, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max starts with 256 GB. Both models provide options for up to 1TB of storage.
Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro: A Versatile Shortcut Key
Smartphones have come a long way in terms of functionality and convenience. Apple has taken a step further by introducing the Action Button on the latest iPhone 15 Pro models. With the Action Button, Apple continues to prioritize user convenience and efficiency. Whether capturing moments, accessing favorite apps, or customizing accessibility settings, this versatile shortcut key brings a new level of convenience to iPhone users.
So, let’s explore the features and customization options offered by this handy Action Button hotkey:
Replacing the Ring/Silent Switch
You will find the Action Button on the left side of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which has replaced the traditional Ring/Silent switch. Apple has designed this button to be highly customizable, allowing users to assign different actions according to their preferences.
Customization Options
Apple has provided users various customization options for the Action Button, which can be accessed through the Settings app. Let’s take a look at some of the actions that can be assigned to this button:
- Focus: Activate or deactivate a Focus mode, with Do Not Disturb being the default option.
- Camera: Capture photos, including selfies, videos, and portrait shots.
- Flashlight: Toggle the flashlight on or off for easy access in the dark.
- Voice Memos: Start or stop recording voice memos using the Voice Memos app.
- Magnifier: Utilize the iPhone’s camera as a magnifying glass to zoom in on small text or objects.
- Shortcuts: Open favorite apps or run shortcuts created with the Shortcuts app for streamlined performance.
- Accessibility: Access various settings related to vision, motor, hearing, and general accessibility options.
- Silent Mode: Toggle silent mode on or off, similar to the Ring/Silent switch on previous iPhone models.
- Translate: Launch the Translate app and initiate text or conversation translations (coming soon).
- No Action: If desired, the Action Button can be set to perform no action at all.
- Activation and Usage: A long press can easily activate the Action Button, minimizing accidental hits. This feature enhances the overall user experience by providing quick access to frequently used functions without navigating multiple menus.
USB-C Port with Enhanced Speed and Versatility
Qi2 Wireless Charging – A New Feature for iPhone 15 Models
With the introduction of the new iPhones, a new wireless charging standard called Qi2 has been incorporated. Although the iPhones are not officially Qi2-certified yet, they are the first phones to ship with this advanced wireless charging technology. This update brings notable improvements, including an additional ring of magnets to ensure precise alignment of charging coils and the potential for faster wireless charging speeds. Several new Qi2 chargers from brands like Belkin have already debuted this month.
TrueDepth Camera and Face ID
The iPhone 15 Pro models feature Face ID, Apple’s facial recognition system integrated into the Dynamic Island. It allows users to unlock the iPhone, access passcode-protected apps, authenticate Apple Pay payments, and more.
Face ID utilizes sensors and cameras. A Dot Projector projects infrared dots onto the skin, creating a precise 3D facial scan. This scan is captured by an infrared camera, generating a facial depth map.
The A17 chip processes the depth map, creating a mathematical model that authenticates the user’s identity. Face ID works in low light and even with obscured faces due to accessories like hats, glasses, and masks.
Front-Facing Camera
The iPhone 15 Pro includes a 12-megapixel front-facing camera with an ƒ/1.9 aperture, similar to the iPhone 14 Pro lineup. It supports features like Night mode, Smart HDR 5 integration, Dolby Vision HDR recording, and Deep Fusion for detailed images. The Photonic Engine enhances low-light performance, and the next-generation Portrait mode allows post-shot adjustments.
The camera features also enable 4K video recording, QuickTake video, slo-mo video, Portrait mode, Portrait Lighting, and the Photographic Styles feature for customized edits.
Triple-Lens Rear Camera – iPhone 15 Pro Series
With the A17 Pro chip, the iPhone 15 Pro models incorporate the 48-megapixel Main camera that was initially introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro. Alongside the A17 Pro chip, new capabilities are enabled. This camera boasts a 24mm focal length with an ƒ/1.78 aperture and the second-generation sensor-shift optical image stabilization, providing minimized movement and sharper photos and videos.
Enhanced Photonic Engine Capabilities
The lens now supports high-resolution photos up to 24 megapixels and 48 megapixels through the Photonic Engine, exceeding previous limits of 12 megapixels and 48 megapixels, which are the new features on the iPhone 15 series. Apple emphasizes that the new 24-megapixel setting offers ultra-high resolution while keeping file sizes reasonable. Additionally, 24-megapixel and 48-megapixel photos can be saved in a standard HEIF format, no longer restricted to RAW.
Simulating DSLR Capabilities
One of the best Apple iPhone 15 features is Simulating DSLR Capabilities. Through computational photography, the Main camera allows users to select from three focal lengths: 24mm, 28mm, and 35mm. This added flexibility offers different zoom levels reflected by tapping and selecting the desired focal length. According to Apple, this triple-lens camera setup and the various Main camera options are equivalent to having seven lenses conveniently stored in your pocket.
Ultra-Wide and Telephoto Enhancements
The Ultra Wide camera retains its ƒ/2.2 aperture, doubling as the lens for capturing impressive macro shots. Differentiating the Pro models from the standard iPhone 15 lineup is the inclusion of a third Telephoto lens.
Notable Differences in the Pro Models
The iPhone 15 Pro features a 12-megapixel Telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts an upgraded Telephoto system supporting 5x optical zoom. The Pro Max variant incorporates a folded glass structure, referred to by Apple as “Tetra Prism technology”, beneath the lens. This innovative design reflects light four times, enabling a longer focal length of 120mm.
Enhanced Telephoto Stabilization
Exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the adoption of 3D sensor-shift optical image stabilization for the Telephoto lens. This system significantly improves photo sharpness by delivering twice as many micro adjustments as its predecessor, even when zoomed to the maximum level.
Video Recording Capabilities
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max offer impressive video recording features, including up to 4K resolution at 24, 25, 30, or 60 frames per second. These devices support HDR recording, ProRes video, and various modes such as Cinematic, Action, slo-mo, and time-lapse.
Enhancements to Portrait Mode
Apple has enhanced the Portrait mode feature in the iPhone 15 lineup. You no longer need to manually select Portrait mode before capturing an image. When you take a photo of a person or pet, the device automatically enables Portrait mode with a beautifully blurred background effect. Even if you tap to focus on a specific area in the image, Portrait mode is activated accordingly. You can easily enable or disable this feature in the Photos app.
Adjustable Background Blur and Focus Shifting
Another Apple iPhone 15 new feature is that you can control the degree of background blur as usual. Moreover, you can now directly adjust the focus between objects within the scene in the Photos app. Apple assures Portrait images showcase more detail and richer color, even in Night mode. Additionally, Portrait images can be captured as Live Photos.
Spatial Video Shooting
Later this year, iPhone 15 Pro models will support creating 3D spatial videos using two cameras. These videos will be viewable on the forthcoming Apple Vision Pro headset, promising an immersive viewing experience that brings memories to life.
iPhone 15 Best Camera Features
In addition to the above, Apple has introduced several other notable camera features over the years:
- Smart HDR 5: This upgraded version intelligently recognizes people in a scene and optimizes contrast, lighting, and skin tones to make everyone look their best. The iPhone 15 Pro’s Smart HDR delivers improved color accuracy and more true-to-life skin tones.
- Photonic Engine: Utilizing the best pixels from a high-resolution image and an image optimized for light capture, the Photonic Engine blends the two to produce a 24-megapixel image with exceptional detail.
- Photographic Styles: These innovative and adjustable filters selectively enhance or mute colors in an image without affecting skin tones. Photographic Styles include Vibrant (boosts colors), Rich Contrast (enhances shadows and colors), Warm (accentuates golden undertones), and Cool (accentuates blue undertones). Furthermore, Tone and Warmth settings can be customized for each style, allowing you to achieve your desired look.
Battery Life
iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max Battery Capacities
The iPhone 15 Pro is equipped with a 3,274 mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max features a slightly larger 4,422 mAh battery, both boasting higher capacities compared to their respective previous-generation models.
Battery Life of iPhone 15 Pro
The iPhone 15 Pro delivers impressive battery life for various activities:
- Video Playback: Up to 23 hours
- Streaming Video Playback: Up to 20 hours
- Audio Playback: Up to 75 hours
Battery Life of iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers extended battery life for extended usage:
- Video Playback: Up to 29 hours
- Streaming Video Playback: Up to 25 hours
- Audio Playback: Up to 95 hours
Related:
- iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 14: The Battle of the Batteries
- All iPhone Battery Life Comparisons Chart – Read before You Buy
Fast Charging Capabilities
All iPhone 15 models support fast charging and can charge up to 50 percent in just 30 to 35 minutes, provided you have a power adapter of 20W or higher.
Battery Cycle Count and Health Preservation
For the first time, iPhone 15 models display the battery cycle count. Furthermore, a built-in feature helps preserve battery health by preventing the iPhone from charging beyond 80 percent capacity.
5G Connectivity on iPhone 15 Pro Models
The latest iPhone 15 Pro models have an advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon X70 modem that supports 5G connectivity. Featuring the first-ever 5G AI system in a modem, the X70 modem enhances 5G speeds, coverage, latency, and power efficiency through artificial intelligence.
Connectivity Options
In the United States, iPhone users can connect to both mmWave and sub-6GHz networks, while other countries are limited to sub-6GHz. While mmWave 5G networks offer the fastest speeds, they are short-range and can be obstructed by buildings and other obstacles. As a result, mmWave is typically available only in major cities, urban areas, stadiums, airports, and other densely populated venues.
Sub-6GHz 5G, on the other hand, is more widely available, covering urban, suburban, and rural areas in the United States and other countries. This variant of 5G, predominantly powered by sub-6GHz frequencies, often provides faster speeds than LTE, especially when mid-band spectrum is utilized. However, it may not always deliver the ultra-fast speeds expected from 5G.
Supported 5G Bands
The iPhone 15 Pro models in the United States support more than 20 5G bands, including the following:
- Sub-6GHz 5G NR: Bands n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n14, n20, n25, n26, n28, n29, n30, n38, n40, n41, n48, n53, n66, n70, n71, n77, n78, n79
- mmWave 5G: Bands n258, n260, n261
LTE Connectivity
Even when 5G is unavailable, the iPhone 15 Pro models ensure reliable Gigabit LTE connectivity. The devices support various LTE bands, including:
- FDD-LTE: Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 66, 71
- TD-LTE: Bands 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 53
Emergency SOS and Roadside Assistance via Satellite for iPhone 15 Models
With the release of the iPhone 15 models, Apple has introduced a groundbreaking feature that allows users to connect to satellites in emergency situations. This feature, known as Emergency SOS via satellite, ensures reliable communication when cellular and Wi-Fi connections are unavailable. Additionally, Apple has partnered with AAA to provide Roadside Assistance via satellite, offering support for iPhone users experiencing car trouble in remote areas.
Emergency SOS via Satellite:
When faced with critical situations where traditional communication methods are ineffective, iPhone 15 users can rely on Emergency SOS via satellite. This feature enables the iPhone’s antennas to connect to satellites operated by Globalstar, offering a lifeline for users in need. By following a simple walkthrough interface, users can establish a connection with a satellite, allowing them to send short messages to emergency services within seconds.
Key Features:
- Satellite connectivity for emergency situations
- Fast and efficient communication in open spaces with limited obstructions
- Detailed questionnaire to provide essential information to emergency personnel
- Communication through text or relay centers staffed by Apple-trained specialists
- Ability to update Find My location when off the grid
- Free for iPhone 15 users for two years
Roadside Assistance via Satellite:
In partnership with AAA, Apple has introduced Roadside Assistance via satellite for U.S. iPhone users. This feature provides a reliable means of contacting AAA for help in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. While there is no charge for satellite usage with Roadside Assistance, users will require a AAA membership or pay a one-time fee for AAA assistance.
The innovative Emergency SOS and Roadside Assistance via satellite features offered by the iPhone 15 models provide users with a peace of mind in dire situations. Whether it’s reaching out for emergency help or seeking automotive assistance, Apple continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its users.
Crash Detection Feature
The latest iPhone 15 models feature an impressive crash detection capabilities, including a high dynamic range gyroscope and a dual-core accelerometer. With the capacity to detect G-force measurements of up to 256Gs, these advanced sensors work in tandem with other iPhone sensors like the barometer. The barometer is capable of detecting cabin pressure changes caused by deployed airbags. Together, this hardware enables the highly effective Crash Detection feature.
In case of a severe car crash, the iPhone 15 models are designed to automatically dial emergency services when the car’s occupants are seriously injured or unable to reach their phones. Leveraging the GPS in the iPhone, speed changes can be detected, while the microphone is equipped to recognize loud sounds typically associated with severe car crashes. Crash Detection is also available on the Apple Watch, and the iPhone and Apple Watch function together to alert emergency services when an accident occurs.
Enhanced Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS, and Ultra Wideband
The iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max sets a new standard for connectivity, offering support for Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) with 4×4 MIMO and Bluetooth 5.3. This upgrade allows the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max to connect to the faster 6 GHz Wi-Fi network broadcast by Wi-Fi 6E routers, surpassing the Wi-Fi 6 capabilities of the previous iPhone 14 Pro models. The iPhone 15 models also feature an NFC chip with reader mode and a second-generation Ultra-Wideband chip. The improved Ultra-Wideband chip enhances spatial awareness, enabling iPhone 15 Pro models to locate other Apple devices equipped with an Ultra-Wideband chip accurately. Notably, this chip extends the range at which two iPhones can connect by three times the previous range.
The Ultra Wideband chip serves various purposes, including precision tracking for AirTags, facilitating directional AirDrop, and enabling seamless interactions with the HomePod mini. Apple has also introduced a Precision Finding feature that allows users to locate friends with an iPhone 15 in crowded areas.
Regarding location services, the iPhone 15 Pro models support GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou, providing a comprehensive suite of options.
The Return of MagSafe
The iPhone 15 models reintroduce the beloved MagSafe feature, with magnets integrated into the back of the devices. These MagSafe magnets allow for easy connection to MagSafe chargers and other magnetic accessories. Apple and authorized third parties offer official MagSafe chargers that can wirelessly charge the iPhone 15 models at speeds of up to 15W.
iPhone 15 and 15 Plus: A Comparison with iPhone 15 Pro Models
Apple introduced 4 models in iPhone 15, including the more affordable iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models. While the iPhone 15 Pro boasts advanced features and a titanium frame, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus models feature an aluminum frame, slightly thicker bezels, and the A16 Bionic chip from the previous generation. However, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus lack certain premium features like ProMotion, Always-On display, and a zoom lens. Both the iPhone 15 models and the iPhone 15 Pro devices share 5G connectivity, a USB-C port (with slower USB 2 transfer speeds on iPhone 15), and the innovative Dynamic Island technology.
What to Expect from the Future iPhone Lineup
The upcoming iPhone 16 lineup, anticipated for release in 2024, could introduce exciting updates to the display sizes of the “Pro” iPhones. According to rumors, the smaller iPhone 16 Pro might feature a 6.3-inch display, while the larger Pro Max could have a 6.9-inch display. Additionally, speculation surrounds the possibility of a top-tier “Ultra” model.
Apart from the display enhancements, there are other potential additions to look forward to in the iPhone 16 series. These include incorporating solid-state buttons, a faster A18 chip, adopting Wi-Fi 7, and notable camera improvements.
Reference: Apple