Discover the latest rumors and updates surrounding the highly anticipated iPhone 15. From its innovative design changes to the speculated camera enhancements, explore the potential features, specifications, and display improvements of the rumored iPhone 15.
Design
The tech world is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming release of the iPhone 15, expected in late 2023. Rumors and leaks have surfaced regarding the design of the highly anticipated device, with some sources suggesting significant changes while others hinting at more incremental updates. In this chapter, we will delve into all the rumors and leaks surrounding the design of the rumored iPhone 15.
General Design
(A fan-made render of the rumoured iPhone 15 Ultra (Image credit: 4RMD)
Based on the information gathered so far, it appears that the iPhone 15 models will not deviate drastically from their predecessors in terms of design. All models are expected to adopt the pill-and-hole cutout, known as the Dynamic Island, which was introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro lineup. This means that the traditional notch will likely be replaced with the Dynamic Island for all four models: the 6.1-inch iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, as well as the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
One significant change expected in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus is the transition from the standard Lightning port to a USB-C port. This change was seemingly confirmed by a leaked image allegedly depicting an iPhone 15 Pro. Apple's decision to adopt the USB-C connector comes after the European Union announced that all smartphones sold after autumn 2024 must incorporate the USB-C standard for charging, and Apple has confirmed its compliance with this regulation.
Another notable change is the introduction of a more power-efficient OLED display driver chip manufactured on a 28nm process. This advancement could result in reduced power consumption and improved battery life. However, it's worth noting that despite adopting the Dynamic Island, the standard iPhone 15 models are not expected to include features like ProMotion technology or an always-on display, as Apple intends to reserve these features exclusively for the Pro models.
Color Options
Apple has a long-standing reputation for offering a wide range of vibrant color options for its standard iPhone models, and it appears that the iPhone 15 lineup will continue this tradition. Rumors suggest that the standard models might be available in dark pink and light blue color options, alongside the classic black, white, and RED variants.
iPhone 15 Pro Exclusive Design
The iPhone 15 Pro models are rumored to feature even thinner and more curved bezels compared to their iPhone 14 Pro predecessors. Renders based on circulating information indicate that these models could have bezels as slim as 1.5mm, potentially making them the devices with the thinnest bezels in iPhone history.
In terms of materials, Apple is reportedly shifting from stainless steel to titanium for the chassis of the Pro models. This transition, combined with the integration of new glass that seamlessly blends with the frame, is expected to give the Pro models a distinctive and premium look.
Unconfirmed rumors from Weibo have also hinted at the possibility of the iPhone 15 models featuring a frosted glass back, a design element typically reserved for the Pro models. If these rumors hold true, both the standard and Pro models would showcase a frosted glass back, deviating from the glossy finish typically associated with the standard models.
Case Compatibility
Based on 3D printed models of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, it appears that older iPhone 14 cases may not be compatible with the new iPhone models due to slight dimensional changes. However, there is a possibility that the iPhone 15 Plus could fit inside an iPhone 14 Plus case, providing some compatibility for users.
Renders and Leaks
Leaked images and CAD-based renders of the iPhone 15 models have corroborated many of the rumors circulating. Notable updates include the transition to a USB-C port, the replacement of the notch with the Dynamic Island, the incorporation of deeper curved edges, and the use of a titanium frame for the Pro models. Additionally, rumors suggest a potential slight increase in display size to 6.2 inches.
Further Design Changes
Rumors indicate that the iPhone 15 Pro models will feature a few distinct design elements that set them apart from the iPhone 14 Pro models. Thinner and more curved bezels, a titanium chassis, and a more prominent camera bump are among the rumored changes expected in the Pro models.
As we eagerly await the official unveiling of the iPhone 15, keep an eye out for more updates on its design and other exciting features.
Apple iPhone 15 Camera
Camera Speculations
When it comes to the cameras of the iPhone 15, there is still very little official information or leaked details available. However, one prominent rumor suggests that the iPhone 15 Ultra will feature a second front-facing camera, differentiating it from the iPhone 14 Pro models which have three rear cameras but only one front camera.
The purpose of this additional front camera can only be speculated upon at this point. It could potentially enable an ultra-wide selfie lens, making group selfies easier without the need for extending one's arm uncomfortably. Alternatively, it may enhance zoom capabilities or enable a dual-camera system for sharper, more detailed images or portraits with a shallower depth of field, resulting in better subject-background separation.
Sony's "State of the Art" Image Sensors
Reports indicate that Apple is expected to adopt Sony's latest "state of the art" image sensors for the iPhone 15 models. Sony's image sensor technology aims to double the saturation signal in each pixel, thereby capturing more light and reducing issues like underexposure and overexposure. This advancement could significantly improve portrait photography and other image quality aspects, particularly in situations with strong backlighting.
Sony's image sensors utilize a semiconductor architecture that separates photodiodes and transistors into different layers, allowing for an increased number of photodiodes. It remains unclear whether all iPhone 15 models will incorporate this new sensor technology or if it will be exclusive to the higher-end "Pro" models.
Additionally, analyst Jeff Pu suggests that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models might adopt the 48-megapixel camera introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro models. This updated lens features a sensor that captures more light, resulting in improved image quality.
Periscope Zoom Lens for iPhone 15 Pro Max
The larger-sized iPhone 15 Pro Max is rumored to be the only model to feature a periscope zoom lens. This lens technology offers optical zoom capabilities that surpass those of a standard telephoto lens, enabling optical zoom levels of up to 5x or even 10x. With a periscope lens, the iPhone's zoom capabilities would be significantly enhanced, as the current Pro models are limited to 3x zoom.
A periscope lens works by reflecting light using an angled mirror towards the image sensor. This allows for a "folded" telephoto lens system that provides improved optical zoom capabilities without the blurriness often associated with digital zoom.
While Apple's competitor Samsung has already implemented periscope lens technology in its smartphones, enabling optical zoom ranges of 4x to 10x and up to 100x digital zoom, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple might implement 6x optical zoom technology when adopting the periscope lens.
Camera Upgrades for the Regular iPhone 15
Recent rumors suggest that the regular iPhone 15, as opposed to just the Pro models, may receive a significant camera upgrade. Supply chain reports indicate that the regular iPhone 15 could feature a 48-megapixel lens, a feature previously limited to the Pro models. Sony's production capacity shortages for its camera modules, which are being upgraded to the 48-megapixel size, are said to have influenced Apple's decision to order more of these higher-quality camera modules.
While the full capabilities and benefits of a three-stack 48-megapixel lens on the regular iPhone 15 remain unknown, it is speculated to enhance image quality and potentially provide even better image sensor technology. However, the more complex sensor technology has reportedly led to production delays for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
As the iPhone 15 camera rumors continue to circulate, it remains to be seen how Apple will deliver on camera advancements and whether they will be widespread across the entire lineup or limited to specific models.
Apple iPhone 15 Expected Specs
Qualcomm Modem Chips
Apple is expected to continue using Qualcomm's 5G modem chips for the iPhone 15 lineup, as it has done since the introduction of 5G iPhones. Despite rumors suggesting that Apple might switch to its own in-house modem chips as early as 2023, it appears that this technology won't be ready until 2024 at the earliest.
SIM Card Tray
With the launch of the iPhone 14 models, Apple removed the SIM card tray from devices sold in the United States. It is now speculated that the SIM tray could be eliminated in additional countries with the release of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models. France is rumored to be one of the countries where the SIM tray might be removed, potentially leading to its removal in other European countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the UK.
Wi-Fi 6E and UWB
Leaked iPhone 15 Wi-Fi chip diagrams confirm that Apple is upgrading to Wi-Fi 6E, but this feature is expected to be limited to the iPhone 15 Pro models. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature Wi-Fi 6E, while the standard iPhone 15 models will continue to use Wi-Fi 6.
Compared to Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E offers more bandwidth, resulting in faster connectivity speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity. It provides an additional 1.2GHz spectrum in the 6GHz band, enabling whole-home gigabit coverage, multi-gigabit connectivity for venues, and the necessary bandwidth for high-data streams used in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences.
The iPhone 15 models are also expected to include a next-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip that will integrate with the Vision Pro headset. The chip's processor will be upgraded to a 7nm manufacturing process, enhancing performance and/or reducing energy consumption.
A-Series Chips
The iPhone 15 Pro models are anticipated to be the first to feature an A-series chip built on Apple supplier TSMC's next-generation 3-nanometer (3nm) node. This advancement in chip technology is expected to increase processing performance by 10 to 15 percent while reducing power consumption by up to 35 percent. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will likely adopt the 4-nanometer A16 chip, which was first used in the iPhone 14 Pro models.
RAM and Battery
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are expected to feature 6GB of RAM, the same amount as the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus. As for battery size, it is speculated that the iPhone 15 will likely have a similar battery capacity to its predecessor, the iPhone 14, which was approximately 3,279mAh. There have also been rumors of a potential addition of reverse wireless charging, enabling the iPhone 15 to wirelessly charge other Apple devices. However, this feature prediction remains uncertain.
Enhanced Ultra Wideband (UWB) and Vision Pro Integration
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 15 will feature an upgraded UWB chip to support the functionality of Apple's Vision Pro headset. The current U1 chip, built on a 16nm process, will reportedly be replaced by a newer chip built on a significantly more compact 7nm process. This upgrade aims to improve performance and reduce power consumption, enhancing the sharing of media and other experiences with the Vision Pro headset.
Additional Speculations
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro models may receive a mid-generation refresh of the rumored A17 Bionic chips, potentially sourced from multiple suppliers to ensure smooth chip supply. Additionally, a TrendForce report speculates that the RAM capacity and specifications for the iPhone 15 may be increased, possibly reaching 8GB for the Pro models.
The introduction of the A17 chip, manufactured using the 3nm process, is expected to provide significant improvements in speed and efficiency. TSMC, the chip manufacturer, predicts a 35 percent improvement in power efficiency, which bodes well for the battery life of the iPhone 15 Pro models.
The iPhone 15 is likely to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X70 modem, as Apple has reportedly placed a big 5G modem order with Qualcomm for the 2023 iPhones. Apple's own modem is expected to arrive alongside the iPhone 16, with Qualcomm not anticipating providing modems to Apple in 2024.
While rumors suggest the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E in the iPhone 15, it is unclear if it will be a feature exclusive to the Pro models. Furthermore, the possibility of increased charging speeds for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max from 20W to 27W has been mentioned, but the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are likely to stick with the existing 20W standard.
Reverse wireless charging remains uncertain, as past rumors about wireless charging on iPhones have circulated for years without materializing.
Apple iPhone 15 Display
The iPhone 15 lineup is expected to feature four models, with the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro sporting OLED panels measuring 6.1 inches. The iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max are anticipated to have larger screens, measuring 6.7 inches. However, there are rumors suggesting that the iPhone 15 could come with a slightly smaller 6.2-inch display, although this information is yet to be confirmed.
New leaks suggest that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will feature Dynamic Islands instead of notches, while all four models will have slightly curved bezels. This design change aims to provide a more immersive viewing experience.
In terms of display specifications, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is rumored to have a remarkable 2,500-nit display, surpassing the rated 2,000 nits of the iPhone 14 Pro Max. This would potentially make it the brightest panel ever seen on a phone. However, these details should be taken with caution, as they come from unofficial sources on Twitter.
Furthermore, there are indications that Apple plans to upgrade the display driver chip of the iPhone 15 series to a smaller and more efficient process. This could potentially result in improved battery life across all models without the need to increase the battery capacity.
On the downside, it is reported that the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will continue to use 60Hz displays. This is in contrast to many other smartphones on the market that offer a higher refresh rate, such as 90Hz or even 120Hz. This omission could be seen as a drawback for those seeking a smoother display experience.
It is worth noting that Apple's shift to micro LED displays is not expected to happen with the iPhone 15 series. Instead, rumors suggest that the Apple Watch Ultra smartwatch may be the first device to feature this new display technology.
Respected display analyst Ross Young suggests that Apple will expand the use of the "pill-shaped" Dynamic Island design to all four iPhone 15 models. However, he does not expect the standard models to feature a 120Hz refresh rate with LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) technology, as the supply chain may not support it.
Overall, the screen sizes for the iPhone 15 lineup are expected to remain similar to previous models, with a 6.1-inch display for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, and a 6.7-inch display for the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max. OLED technology will be utilized across all models, with variations in peak brightness, especially for the Pro and Pro Max models.
