iPhone 15: Release Date, Price, Camera, and Everything You Want to Know

Apple's iPhone 15 may launch next month, following the typical September release window. Expect notable upgrades from the lackluster iPhone 14, including cool iPhone 14 Pro features like Dynamic Island and a powerful 48MP camera trickling down. Notably, the iPhone 15 will introduce USB-C for the first time, ending the Lightning era and bringing charging uniformity to Apple devices.

Here's everything you should know about next month's iPhone launch. 

iPhone 15 Overview 

iPhone 15: Apple's next mainstream iPhone.

Release Date: September 2023.

Price: Starting at $849-$899 (expected price increase).

Rumored Features: USB-C, 48MP camera, A17 chip, Dynamic Island, thinner bezels.

iPhone 15 Timeline in2023

Apr 5: Some iPhone 15 Models to Ship From India as China Shifts.

Apr 17: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Rumored to Feature Frosted Glass.

Apr 18: Apple Considered iPhone 15 With Lightning Port Before USB-C.

May 4: EU Warns Apple About USB-C Cable Speed Limits.

May 8: Replica iPhone 15 Pro Max Reveals Ultra-Thin Bezels.

May 14: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Rumored 48-Megapixel Cameras.

May 17: Rumor Recap: iPhone 15's USB-C Port Expectations.

May 24: iPhone 15 to Support 15W Wireless Fast Charging.

May 25: iPhone 15 to Have Qi2 and MagSafe Wireless Charging.

May 26: Hands-On: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Preview.

Jun 19: Kuo: iPhone 15 Gets Next-Gen Ultra Wideband Chip.

Jul 4: iPhone 15 Lineup to Feature Larger Batteries.

Jul 17: iPhone 15 Could Feature Stacked Battery Technology.

Jul 20: iPhone 15 Launch Possibly Delayed to October.

Jul 25: iPhone 15 Rumored to Debut Hybrid Lens.

Jul 26: Kuo: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Get 48-Megapixel Cameras.

Jul 27: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus May Have Smaller Camera Sensor.

Aug 1: Samsung Begins Mass Producing OLED Displays for iPhone 15.

Aug 2: iPhone 15 Demand Predicted Lower Than iPhone 14.

Aug 6: Apple's iPhone 15 Event Expected Sept. 12 or 13, Launch on Sept. 22.

iPhone 15 Models and Specs

Here's what we expect from the entire iPhone 15 lineup based on all the rumors out there, including specs and new features.

iPhone 15 Release Date

Expect a big Apple unveiling event for iPhone 15 in early September, likely on September 5th or 12th, with a release date on September 15th or 22nd, following the pattern of previous years' events.

There are some concerns about a potential delay, possibly to October, due to production issues related to the bezel upgrade, but it's uncertain if it will affect all models or the release window. Analysts differ in their predictions, so we'll have to wait for official announcements from Apple to know for sure.

iPhone 15 vs iPhone 14

Here's what we know so far about potential iPhone 15 specs and rumored changes compared to the iPhone 14. Please keep in mind that some features may remain consistent year-to-year, and not all rumored changes might materialize. Take a look and stay tuned for official announcements!

iPhone 15: A16 and A17 Processor   

The upcoming iPhone 15 lineup is expected to follow a similar path as its predecessor, with the regular iPhone 15 models likely featuring the A16 Bionic chip used in the iPhone 14 Pro. However, the iPhone 15 Pro is anticipated to receive a major upgrade with an all-new A17 chip, setting it apart as the more advanced variant.

The A17 chip is rumored to be manufactured using TSMC's 3nm process, promising significant improvements in power consumption and heat generation. Reports also suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro line could see a boost in RAM to 8GB, enhancing performance and multitasking capabilities. These anticipated upgrades are set to make the iPhone 15 lineup even more appealing to tech enthusiasts and professionals.

iPhone 15: Display & Sizes

As of September 2022, rumors suggest that Apple plans to introduce the Dynamic Island feature to all iPhone 15 models, not just the Pro variant, a departure from the iPhone 14 lineup. Analysts, including Ross Young and Mark Gurman, have supported this speculation. While the standard iPhone 15 models are expected to embrace the Dynamic Island, exclusive features like a 120Hz refresh rate and an Always-On Display will likely remain reserved for the iPhone 15 Pro.

If Apple follows its iPhone 14 precedent, we anticipate a 6.1-inch iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, accompanied by a larger 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Leaked CAD renders in February 2023 suggest Apple might reduce the bezels, maximizing screen real estate. Subsequent leaks showcased thinner bezels across the entire iPhone 15 lineup, promising a more immersive and elegant display. The OLED display of the iPhone 15 could feature an upgraded display driver for improved power efficiency, possibly with a transition to a 28nm process from the old 40nm process, potentially leading to enhanced performance. Reports indicate that Apple will implement an upgraded M12 OLED process across all iPhones this year.

iPhone 15: Design

The iPhone 15 is expected to maintain a similar size and shape to the iPhone 14, featuring squared edges, rounded corners, and identical bezels. The prominent design change will be the incorporation of Dynamic Island, previously introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro. Rumors of Touch ID's return in the iPhone 15 appear unfounded, with Face ID expected as the sole biometric authentication system in 2023.

Though initial reports suggested the removal of physical buttons in favor of Taptic Engines, this feature's implementation has been delayed. Apple is also rumored to integrate the proximity sensor into the Dynamic Island for the iPhone 15. While the U.S. saw the SIM card tray removed with the iPhone 14 in favor of eSIM, this change may extend to more territories, with France and possibly other European countries following suit. However, CAD renders and leaks indicate some regions may retain the SIM tray.

Furthermore, there's speculation that the iPhone 15's rear glass will adopt the same frosted premium finish seen in the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro, upgrading from the current glossy back.

USB-C Charging, Higher Data Transfer Speeds

All iPhone 15 models, including the Pro Max variant, are rumored to feature a change from the Lightning cable to USB-C. This switch allows users to use the same cable for recharging their iPhone 15 and other devices like MacBooks, iPads, and Androids. USB-C offers faster charging and data transfer speeds compared to Lightning, potentially enabling the iPhone 15 Pro Max to support charging speeds up to 27W. However, Apple might adopt the 'Made for iPhone' program for USB-C, limiting non-certified chargers and accessories from reaching the same high speeds as premium brands.

The iPhone 15 Pro models equipped with USB-C ports will boast higher-speed data transfers, setting them apart from the standard iPhone 15 models that will retain USB 2.0 speeds akin to Lightning, providing an advantage to the Pro variants.

Apple analyst suggests the iPhone 15 Pro models will support "at least" USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt 3, enabling significantly faster transfer rates for videos and other files. While USB 2.0 is limited to 480Mb/s, USB 3.2 offers speeds up to 20Gb/s. With Thunderbolt 3 support, data transfers could reach speeds of up to 40Gb/s on the iPhone 15 Pro models.

Also Read: Top 15 Best iPhone Transfer Software | Free and Paid >>

iPhone 15: 5G Modem and Wi-Fi Chip

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple's plan to switch to its in-house 5G modem for iPhone 15 might not happen as expected, indicating a possible failure in its development. Consequently, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 are likely to continue using Qualcomm's 5G modems. However, Apple is still working on its 5G modem with the goal of eventually replacing Qualcomm's technology.

Additionally, the iPhone 15 is expected to upgrade from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster, more reliable, and wider coverage thanks to its utilization of the 6GHz band. Despite this enhancement, some reports suggest that Apple may limit Wi-Fi 6E support to the iPhone 15 Pro models while keeping Wi-Fi 6 for the iPhone 14 lineup.

iPhone 15 Cameras

The iPhone 15's camera details remain partially unknown, but analyst Jeff Pu suggests the possibility of Apple introducing its first periscope camera, likely in the Pro models or exclusively in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This periscope technology could enable 5x optical zoom, potentially even reaching 10x zoom. Other smartphone manufacturers like Samsung have already incorporated periscope cameras to offer enhanced zoom capabilities. Periscope cameras work by increasing the distance between the lens and sensor, akin to a periscope in a submarine, without compromising the iPhone's slim design.

Moreover, the iPhone 15 is rumored to feature a state-of-the-art sensor from Sony, doubling the saturation signal in each pixel. This advancement aims to capture more light, reducing underexposure and overexposure in specific scenarios, especially benefiting portrait photos and headshots.

iPhone 15 Battery

In a major leak in July, it was revealed that Apple plans to significantly enhance the battery capacity of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. The iPhone 15 is expected to feature a 3877 mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 Plus will boast a massive 4912 mAh battery, representing a 20% increase compared to their predecessors. The use of battery stacking technology, similar to that found in electric vehicles, is likely contributing to the higher capacities.

Moreover, with the adoption of USB-C and battery stacking, new charging speeds are anticipated. Rumors suggest Apple may introduce 40W wired charging and 20W support for MagSafe, offering substantial speed improvements and even better fast-charging capabilities for the iPhone.

iPhone 15 Colors and Storage

The latest iPhone 15 color leak shows Starlight, Midnight, Green, Yellow, Pink, and Product (RED) options, bringing back pink while omitting the rumored blue. Additionally, a new color is anticipated to debut during the iPhone 15's life cycle, similar to the banana-yellow iPhone 14 introduced in March 2023, expected to remain in the lineup from September.

Apple's storage plans may vary due to component costs and data-intensive camera features. The lower-end option might change based on camera additions, while a 2TB top-end option is possible.

iPhone 15 Price vs iPhone 14 Price 

Rumors suggest a possible price hike for all iPhone 15 models, not just the Pro variants, due to factors like titanium and upgraded cameras. While a Pro price increase is expected, higher costs for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus could be concerning for consumers.

No Touch ID

Despite persistent rumors about Touch ID's potential return via an under-display solution, the iPhone 15 models are unlikely to incorporate Touch ID and will stick with Face ID. Apple is, however, working on under-display Face ID technology, expected to debut no earlier than 2025. In the meantime, the iPhone 15 will utilize the Dynamic Island feature, extending it to all models, not just the Pro variants, in 2023.

FAQs about iPhone 15

Will iPhone 15 use iOS 17?

iOS 17 was unveiled at WWDC 2023, with cool updates for iPhone 15, including Phone, FaceTime, and Messages apps, AirDrop, autocorrect, StandBy mode, Journal app, and Safari changes.

Will there be an iPhone 16?

Certainly, Apple follows yearly release cycles. iPhone 16 rumored features: under-display Face ID, camera improvements, and Apple's 5G chip for connectivity.

Which iPhone to buy in 2023?

Best: iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14. Budget option: iPhone SE 3 with Touch ID/Home Button.

When is iPhone 15 coming out?

Expected in early September, unveiling on September 5 or 12, released on September 15 or 22.

Will iPhone 15 have a SIM card slot?

Rumors suggest SIM card slot elimination for the entire iPhone lineup in 2023, already done with iPhone 14 in the U.S.

Will iPhone 15 have USB-C?

Yes, both iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro are expected to include USB-C based on reliable insiders. The law requires a USB-C slot from 2024.

The Bottom Line

That's all about iPhone 15 you should know ahead of the official release. The iPhone 15 rumors have sparked anticipation with advanced cameras, USB-C adoption, and iOS 17 features. Speculations on the Dynamic Island, titanium frame, and potential delays have kept enthusiasts intrigued. As the official unveiling nears, excitement grows for Apple's latest flagship device, which promises to redefine smartphones and captivate tech enthusiasts worldwide.