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iPhone 15 Pro Review


iPhone 15 pro review

iPhone 15 pro review

The iPhone 15 Pro is the newest addition to Apple’s gallery of amazing products. This new device is so much more than just a slight improvement of the previous iPhone, with this new Apple product being the embodiment of technological advancements. At first glance, the iPhone 15 Pro might look familiar to users who have experience with the previous editions of the same Apple product. However, if you delve deeper into the improvements introduced with the new iPhone, you will notice that this Apple product stands out from the rest.

Editor’s Rating

iPhone 15 Pro: Key Features Overview
Display: 6.1″ OLED, 2556 x 1179 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, Super Retina XDR, HDR10, and peak brightness of 2000 cd/m^2.
Hardware & Performance: Powered by the Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) chipset, Hexa-core CPU, 6-core Apple GPU, 8GB RAM, and 128GB internal storage. Runs on iOS 17.x.
Battery: 3274 mAh with fast and MagSafe wireless charging.
Camera System:
  • Rear Cameras: Triple setup with a 48 MP primary sensor (F1.8, 24 mm), 12 MP telephoto (3x optical zoom, F2.8, 77 mm), and 12 MP ultra-wide (F2.2, 13 mm). Supports 4K UHD video at 60 fps.
  • Front Camera: 12 MP Time-of-Flight sensor.
Extra Features: ProRes, Cinematic mode.
Build & Design: Measures 5.77 x 2.78 x 0.32 inches, weighs 6.60 oz, and features a glass rear and titanium frame. IP68 water resistance, 3D Face recognition security, available in Black, White, Blue, and Natural Titanium.
Connectivity: 5G, 4G, and 3G support, LTE-A, HSDPA+ 42.2 Mbit/s speeds, eSIM technology.
Multimedia: No 3.5mm jack, multiple speakers, and wireless screen sharing.
Advanced Features: Bluetooth v5.3, Wi-Fi 6E, USB Type-C (USB 3.2), NFC, Ultra Wideband (UWB), and a range of sensors including Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, and Barometer.
Price & Availability: Priced at $999, announced on September 12, 2023.
Website www.apple.com

As the tech giant’s most recent flagship, the iPhone 15 Pro is positioned to be a direct competitor to other top-tier smartphones in the market. It cannot fit into the category of budget or mid-range devices, with Apple’s intention being to prove that the new iPhone 15 Pro is the ultimate testament to what the embodiment of smartphone engineering in 2023 should look like.

The new edition boasts an innovative design, incorporating both features of previous models and some brand-new design innovations. Apple’s determination to set a new benchmark with its latest iPhone products is evident in the brand’s efforts to provide smooth performance, professional camera solutions, and a top-notch overall user experience.

The difference between the iPhone 15 and the new Pro version of the device is tangible, with Apple’s intention being to cater to both mainstream iPhone fans and users who wish to unlock even more advanced features.The iPhone 15 Pro, in its essence, is a harmonious marriage of style and substance, aiming to captivate users with both its outer beauty and inner beast.

1. Design and Build

In the world of smartphones, design evolution tends to be incremental, with major overhauls happening only occasionally. With the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple strikes a balance, presenting a design that feels both fresh and familiar. Here, the company intertwines its legacy aesthetics with new-age sensibilities to craft a phone that is at once timeless and modern.

At its foundation, the iPhone 15 Pro remains faithful to the structural integrity that Apple is celebrated for. Its aerospace-grade aluminum frame, combined with the cutting-edge ceramic shield front cover, confers both durability and a plush feel in hand. What’s more, the device is noticeably slimmer and lighter, a testament to Apple’s relentless pursuit of refining even the most minuscule details.

The rear of the iPhone 15 Pro is where most of the design magic happens. While the glossy effect on the back is kept with the help of glass material, the new matrix used for the cameras’ positioning gives the phone a somewhat futuristic appeal. In addition to bringing a different look, the new camera setup on the back is giving a better understanding of the advanced camera functions incorporated in this model.

Another design innovation is actually something very nostalgic, with the iPhone 15 Pro bringing back the classic “iPhone” branding on the back of the device. This small nod to the iPhone 15 Pro’s predecessors shows Apple’s ability to combine the brand’s classic features with otherwise innovative and constantly evolving design, thus creating a bridge between the company’s past and bright future.

Key Insights: iPhone 15 Pro Design and Build

  • Balanced Evolution: The iPhone 15 Pro’s design is a harmonious blend of classic Apple aesthetics and modern trends, presenting a look that’s both timeless and contemporary.
  • Structural Integrity: Maintains Apple’s tradition of robust build quality with an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and ceramic shield front cover, ensuring durability alongside a premium feel.
  • Sleek & Lightweight: Noticeably slimmer and lighter, reflecting Apple’s focus on refining even small details for an enhanced user experience.
  • Futuristic Rear Design: Features a glossy back and a newly positioned camera matrix, offering a futuristic look while highlighting advanced camera functionalities.
  • Classic Branding Returns: The reintroduction of the classic “iPhone” branding on the back, merging nostalgia with modern design, symbolizes a bridge between Apple’s heritage and its future.
  • Environmental Resilience: IP68 water and dust resistance rating, providing robust protection against environmental elements like spills and rain.
  • Refined Details: Attention to fine details is evident in features like tactile buttons, high-quality speakers, and seamless integration of physical components.
  • Design Consistency: While the design retains elements from previous models, this consistency is a signature aspect of Apple’s design philosophy, appealing to both loyal customers and new users.

When the core strength of the device is considered, the iPhone 15 Pro is more than perfect. The IP68 rating guarantees that the phone is water and dust-proof, which ensures that accidental spills or rain showers will not cause any damage. We have also noticed Apple’s attention to detail thanks to features like the tactile buttons of the device, the impeccable speakers, and the effortless integration of physical elements.

While some might argue that the design retains core elements from its predecessors, it is this very consistency that has become a hallmark of Apple’s design philosophy. By weaving together the old and the new, the iPhone 15 Pro offers a design that resonates with long-time Apple aficionados while still captivating the gaze of newcomers.

2. Display and Visual Experience

For many users, a smartphone’s display is its most interacted-with component, acting as a portal to digital experiences. Apple has made sure that the iPhone 15 Pro’s display will be able to combine both great design and excellent functionality.

iPhone 15 pro display

The iPhone 15 Pro is fitted with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, with its resolution quality being 2556 x 1179 pixels. Thanks to the innovative 461 PPI pixel density, users will have a difficult time differentiating single pixels whenever they look at the screen of their device.Whether you’re viewing high-resolution photos, enjoying a movie, or reading text, everything appears crisp and clear.

One of the signature features that significantly uplift the user experience is Apple’s ProMotion technology, which supports adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. This ensures fluidity in animations when you’re zipping through apps, scrolling content, or engrossed in a high-octane game. In addition to smooth visuals, this technology also reduces the refresh rate whenever static content is displayed on the screen, further improving the battery’s life.

While visual smoothness is important, factors like color accuracy and vibrancy are also paramount for users looking for a high-quality experience. Courtesy of HD10 and Dolby Vision’s work, videos or games running on iPhone 15 Pro are guaranteed to offer a very cinematic experience. Scenes with stark contrasts are particularly captivating: the deep blacks, thanks to the OLED’s ability to turn off individual pixels, stand in stark juxtaposition to the brilliantly illuminated whites.

Key Insights: iPhone 15 Pro Display and Visual Experience

  • High-Resolution Display: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels, ensuring sharp, clear visuals in various media consumption.
  • Pixel Density: High pixel density of 461 PPI makes it nearly impossible for users to distinguish individual pixels, enhancing the overall clarity and detail of the display.
  • ProMotion Technology: Adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz through Apple’s ProMotion technology deliver fluid animations and responsive scrolling, alongside battery efficiency for static content.
  • Color Accuracy and Vibrancy: Supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, offering cinematic-quality visuals with striking contrasts — deep blacks and bright whites, owing to the OLED’s ability to turn off individual pixels.
  • True Tone Technology: Adjusts the white balance according to ambient light, ensuring consistent color accuracy and reducing eye strain in different lighting conditions.
  • Night Shift for Health: Includes the Night Shift feature, which reduces blue light exposure during evenings, aiding in better sleep and minimizing eye strain.
  • Comprehensive Visual Experience: Beyond just sharpness and fluidity, the iPhone 15 Pro’s display focuses on providing a holistic and high-quality visual experience, from color rendition to eye comfort.

To ensure color accuracy, the newest iPhone edition features Apple’s innovative True Tone technology, which subtly changes the white balance levels of the display, allowing the screen to adjust to the surrounding light conditions. This ensures that colors remain consistent irrespective of the environment and also minimizes eye strain during extended usage.

We cannot discuss an Apple display without including the features concerning users’ health. The iPhone 15 Pro includes Night Shift – a feature designed to combat the sleep-disrupting effects of blue light by gradually shifting the display colors to warmer hues as evening approaches.

To summarize, the display of the new iPhone 15 Pro is more than simply smoothening pixels but rather offers a great overall experience. Every aspect, from its high-definition resolution to its adaptive refresh rate, has been meticulously engineered. The outcome? A superb visual performance that meets Apple’s high standards as well as the expectations of the brand’s user base.

3. Performance and Efficiency

Any technology aficionado knows that the raw specifications of the device are just one side of the whole experience. The everyday applications, the real user compatibility, and the technological innovations make up the rest of the product. One great example of this principle is the A17 Pro chip incorporated in the iPhone 15 Pro.

iPhone 15 pro Performance

Standing as the world’s first 3nm chip, the A17 Pro is a marvel of modern engineering. Designed for both power and efficiency, it promises a 10% improvement in CPU performance compared to its predecessors. But the advancements don’t stop there; the chip is primed to deliver up to twice the performance in machine learning tasks, from the seemingly simple autocorrect to the intricate on-device Siri interactions.

One of the standout features incorporated in the A17 Pro chip is a 6-core GPU. Thanks to this integral part, the graphics of the device, which have always been one of Apple’s strongest features, offer an outstanding experience. With graphics speed, which is 20% faster is definitely an improvement that many gaming enthusiasts and graphic designers would appreciate. In addition, the ray tracing function of the GPU enables lighting and reflections that resemble console play. Games like Diablo Immortal can offer an immersive gaming experience, with stunning visual effects like moonlight reflection or small particle effects, which will in no way affect the overall performance of the game.

Key Insights: iPhone 15 Pro Performance and Efficiency

  • Advanced A17 Pro Chip: World’s first 3nm chip, enhancing CPU performance by 10% over previous models and offering double the performance in machine learning tasks.
  • Exceptional GPU Performance: Features a 6-core GPU, enhancing graphics speed by 20% and supporting advanced gaming features like ray tracing, crucial for realistic lighting and reflections in games.
  • Gaming Prowess: Enhanced graphics facilitate a premium gaming experience, with high-end games like Diablo Immortal and Resident Evil Village showing impressive visual effects without impacting performance.
  • Impressive Benchmark Scores: Outperforms rivals in benchmark tests with scores of 2,890 (single-core) and 7,194 (multi-core) on Geekbench, surpassing competitors like the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
  • Superior Graphics Benchmarking: Achieves 94.3 frames per second on the 3DMark Wild Life test, indicating top-tier graphics performance for gaming.
  • Efficient Video Processing: Demonstrates practical performance efficiency by transcoding a 4K video to 1080p in just 25.5 seconds, significantly faster than competitors.
  • Overall User Experience: Beyond gaming and benchmarking, the A17 Pro chip ensures a smooth, efficient experience in everyday tasks like video editing, offering both performance and efficiency improvements.

Apple’s collaborations with inventive game developers have also contributed to the app diversity introduced to iPhone users. Top-tier games like Capcom’s Resident Evil Village are now available to play on iPhones. The gaming experience, as some reviewers have noted, is so intense and captivating that a dedicated gaming controller might be a worthy addition for serious gamers.

Benchmarking the iPhone 15 Pro offers a quantitative look at its prowess. The device’s score on Geekbench, a platform that evaluates overall system performance, was an impressive 2,890 on a single-core test and 7,194 on a multi-core evaluation test. To put these numbers into perspective, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, managed scores of 1,396 and 4,882 respectively. When the quality of graphics was tested on the 3DMark Wild Life platform, the iPhone 15 Pro achieved 94.3 frames per second. This result showed graphic achievement for the new iPhone, which beat both its predecessor as well as direct competitors. This means that iPhone 15 Pro is currently the best-performing phone for gaming on the market.

But the iPhone 15 Pro’s performance isn’t just about gaming or synthetic benchmarks. Its prowess extends to practical tasks like video editing. In the transcoding test, when tasked to convert a 4K video to 1080p, the iPhone 15 Pro managed to complete the conversion for 25.5 seconds. This achievement was significantly faster than the 40 seconds it took for Galaxy S23 Ultra to complete the task.

In conclusion, the A17 Pro chip of the iPhone 15 Pro did so much more than simply breaking records. With its technological improvements, the newest edition of iPhone set a new tone for the experience iPhone users should expect to enjoy when it comes to the performance and efficiency of smartphones.

4. Battery Life

The new iPhone 15 Pro serves as proof of how small but impactful changes in smartphone design and functionalities can improve our daily tech interactions. When it comes to battery life, which is a crucial feature for our modern digitalized world, the iPhone 15 Pro has introduced several significant improvements.

iPhone 15 pro Battery

First and foremost, let’s address the raw capacity. Despite Apple’s traditional reluctance to publicly disclose specific battery capacities, curious minds have once again managed to uncover the numbers. The iPhone 15 Pro features a 3,274mAh battery, which is an improved version of the 3,200mAh battery of its predecessor. Despite the minuscule difference, the bump in battery signifies Apple’s determination to always improve its products, even if it is by small fractions.

Apple claims a video playback duration of 23 hours for the iPhone 15 Pro, mirroring its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro. This consistency in battery life is not very surprising, considering there has not been a significant bump in the battery for the newest model. The charging process is still commendable, with the smartphone supporting up to 27W wired charging, 11W via MagSafe, and 7.5W via Qi wireless charging.

Key Insights: iPhone 15 Pro Battery Life

  • Increased Battery Capacity: Features a slightly larger 3,274mAh battery compared to the previous model’s 3,200mAh, symbolizing Apple’s commitment to incremental improvement.
  • Consistent Video Playback Time: Offers the same 23-hour video playback as its predecessor, despite the modest increase in battery size.
  • Charging Options and Speeds: Supports up to 27W wired charging, 11W via MagSafe, and 7.5W via Qi wireless charging. Introduction of USB-C also allows reverse wired charging.
  • Daily Usage Performance: Provides around 5.5 hours of screen-on time per charge, on par with some competitors having larger batteries.
  • Battery Drain Under Intensive Use: Shows a drain rate of 1% per minute during high-demand tasks like gaming, a typical performance for such activities.
  • USB-C Introduction: Welcomed change for faster data transfer and reverse charging capabilities. While peak charging speeds remain the same, users can charge over 50% in about 30 minutes, with full charge taking around 1 hour and 35 minutes.
  • Charging Optimization Feature: New feature allows setting a charge ceiling at 80% to extend long-term battery health and capacity, beneficial for users keeping their iPhones for several years.
  • Overall Battery Score: The iPhone 15 Pro’s battery life earns a score of 4 out of 5, indicating strong performance and day-to-day reliability.

When tested for daily use, the high quality of the iPhone 15 Pro’s battery becomes more evident. On average, iPhone users can enjoy about 5.5 hours of screen-on time for every charge of their device. To put that into perspective, this screen-on time per a single charge is on par with Galaxy Z Flip 5’s performance, despite the latter having a larger battery of 3,700mAh. When subjected to intensive tasks like running the game “Honkai Impact,” the phone displayed a battery drain rate of about 1% per minute. That said, such a battery drain is typical for tasks that require a higher demand, and is not indicative of battery life when the device is used for everyday tasks.

One distinctive change in iPhone 15 Pro’s design is the introduction of USB-C, which was a decision applauded by many Apple fans and tech aficionados. Not only does this feature change the way iPhone users can charge up their devices, but it also allows reverse wired charging via a C-type USB, which supports up to 7.5W. This feature is particularly timely, considering the simultaneous launch of the AirPods Pro 2 with a USB-C charging case. Though the transition to USB-C promises faster data transfer speeds, it would have been the icing on the cake if peak charging speeds had received a boost. Nevertheless, users might appreciate the convenience of charging their devices over 50% for just about 30 minutes, with the full battery charge taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes. It is worth noting that the final charge between the 90% and 100% limit took about 30 minutes.

Apple’s advanced approach is evident with the new charging optimization, which was introduced with the new iPhone 15 series. Users who are inclined to retain their iPhones for several years can now set an 80% charge ceiling. This initiative is designed to extend the long-term battery health and capacity. This is a fortifying move, which shows iPhone users the capability of Apple’s management.

In conclusion, the iPhone 15 Pro delivers a solid battery experience, aptly reflected in a battery score of 4 out of 5. While the numbers and features are impressive, the real value lies in the day-to-day reliability and the flexibility these enhancements offer to users.

5. Camera

In the crowded arena of smartphone cameras, Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro holds its ground. While the hardware might seem familiar, especially to those acquainted with the iPhone 14 Pro, there are distinct features and improved performance that make it stand out.

Key Features:

  • 48MP main camera
  • 12MP ultra-wide and 12MP 3x telephoto
  • Support for ProRes video at 4K/60fps with external storage
  • Log video capture

Apple hasn’t dramatically altered the camera setup, retaining the trusty combination of a 48MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and a 12MP 3x telephoto sensor. While it might disappoint some users that Apple reserved the 5x optical zoom for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the 15 Pro remains a formidable force in mobile photography.

The front camera of the iPhone 15 Pro is the same as the 12MP TrueDepth used in its predecessors. That said, it is still incredibly impressive as it is extremely accurate in recreating colors, providing advanced features, and ensuring easy integration with current popular social media apps.

The iPhone 15 Pro’s main sensor can churn out a combined 24MP image – a substantial jump from the previous 12MP. This jump is achieved by merging a 12MP image processed through the phone’s pipeline with a full 48MP resolution shot. This enhancement ensures rich details, vibrant colors, and an impressive dynamic range.

Portrait photography also sees an upgrade. Users no longer need to manually select the portrait mode. Instead, after capturing the image, they can easily add or adjust the bokeh effect, giving their subjects a standout appearance. And, as Apple shared, this portrait feature can presently detect humans, cats, and dogs, ensuring that your furry companions are always in the spotlight.

In comparison with its Android rival, the Galaxy S23, Apple takes the lead in terms of edge detection. However, to utilize the post-capture features on the Galaxy, one must use the dedicated portrait mode.

The nighttime photography feature of the iPhone 15 Pro is impeccable in capturing the best images by combining dynamic range, colors, and range. That said, users keener on making low-light pictures or those who enjoy astrophotography might find the Pixel 7 Pro camera more suitable.

Video capture on the iPhone 15 Pro is where the device truly shines. Powered by the A17 Pro chip and benefiting from the adoption of USB-C for faster data transfers, the phone now supports Apple ProRes video recording up to 4K/60fps with external storage. Add the Log capture feature, and professionals have a tool that delivers flat color profile footage ready for post-production tasks.

Despite its robust video capabilities, the camera’s color science does seem to lean more towards the saturated and contrasty output found in Samsung devices rather than the natural tones of Google’s Pixel series.

One can’t help but wish the iPhone 15 Pro featured the 5x optical zoom from its bigger sibling, the Pro Max. Hopefully, the standard iPhone 15 Pro might see this feature added to its camera in its next iteration.

Lastly, Apple teases a unique Spatial Video format for both 15 Pro models. These 3D videos are designed for the upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset.

The iPhone 15 Pro’s camera setup, while not drastically different from its predecessor, does have notable improvements. Its strengths lie in its enhanced image processing, portrait features, and video capture capabilities.

While there’s room for improvement – and enthusiasts will always find features to pine for – the iPhone 15 Pro camera stands tall as one of the best in the market.

6. Software

iOS 17 Overview
Overall iOS 17 Outlook Refinement and enhancement of iOS 16 features, rather than groundbreaking changes.
New Features – Contact Posters and NameDrop: Smooth integration in Apple ecosystem.
– Sticker Integration: From various media sources.
User Experience – Enhanced Autocorrect: More reliable typing.
– New Ringtones: Auditory refresh.
– Improved Haptic Feedback: Better tactile interaction.
Unique Experiences – Action Button Interface: New, intuitive UI experience.
– Dynamic Island: Innovation around face camera and FaceID, but limited expansion in functionality.
Software Update Strategy Apple leads in update longevity; expected 5+ years of OS updates, possibly up to 6 years or more.
Competition Samsung, OnePlus, and Google’s Pixel 8 improving, but Apple still ahead in software update management.
Overall Assessment iOS 17 demonstrates Apple’s commitment to refining user experience and ensuring device longevity.

Users holding the new iPhone 15 Pro will be greeted by the iOS 17. While its depth and breadth have been examined in great detail by my colleague, Philip Berne, in his detailed iOS 17 review, I’ll be taking a more concentrated look at how the latest operating system feels in conjunction with this new hardware.

iPhone 15 pro software

At first glance, the leap from iOS 16 to iOS 17 might not feel as groundbreaking. But, as is characteristic of Apple, the beauty often lies in the details. While the previous software iteration was lauded for its transformative features, iOS 17 refines those and adds a sprinkle of new elements that enhance the overall user experience.

New features such as Contact Posters and NameDrop seamlessly integrate into the ecosystem, echoing Apple’s signature promise of ‘it just works.’ Another delightful addition is the capability to integrate stickers from virtually any media source. It’s not just the flashy features that steal the show; Apple has made meaningful improvements in terms of enhanced autocorrect, the introduction of fresh ringtones, and even more tactile haptic feedback, elevating the tactile experience of using the device.

The iPhone 15 Pro’s marriage of software and hardware offers some unique experiences. A standout among them is the interface designed for the new Action button. Creating an interface different from anything else Apple has added to iOS has been one of the company’s great achievements. The operating system allows a visually pleasing but also extremely intuitive user experience, with users having a clear understanding of the functionality of each app.What is more, Dynamic Island serves as proof of Apple’s tech innovations, introducing functionality to the section dedicated to the face camera and the FaceID components. However, there’s a twinge of disappointment as Apple hasn’t significantly expanded on its functionality despite a year of its introduction.

As far as the longevity of the device is concerned, Apple boasts the best software update strategy, with rivals Samsung and OnePlus coming close but still having some work to do before they can compete with Apple. There have been speculations about Google’s Pixel 8 series getting really close to diminishing the gap between their software solutions and Apple’s software update management system. Yet, with Apple’s track record, the iPhone 15 Pro users can be reasonably confident in expecting at least five years of OS updates. That said, due to the usual Apple discretion, the exact duration of regular updates has not been given upfront. Still, if history is any indicator, users could see their devices being supported for up to six years or potentially even more, contingent on Apple’s strategic decisions.

All in all, while iOS 17 may not be a revolutionary step forward, it is a testament to Apple’s commitment to refining the user experience, adding thoughtful features, and ensuring longevity for its devices.

7. Connectivity and Extras

Despite being overlooked in favor of other features that may be more flashy, connectivity is still an integral part of users’ experience. Let us dissect the way the iPhone 15 Pro handles this functionality.

The iPhone 15 Pro comes equipped with the latest iteration of Wi-Fi, ensuring fast and stable connections whether you’re streaming content, playing games, or attending a video call. In addition, users who predominantly rely on mobile data will appreciate the device’s 5G extensive capabilities.

Bluetooth performance remains top-notch. Whether you want to pair your iPhone to headphones, smartwatches, or car systems, the bluetooth connectivity is seamless. When compared to its predecessor, there has been a significant improvement in the range and stability of wireless connections.

  • Latest Wi-Fi Iteration: Ensures fast and stable connections for streaming, gaming, and video calls.
  • 5G Capabilities: Extensive support for users reliant on mobile data.
  • Enhanced Bluetooth Performance: Improved range and stability for connecting to headphones, smartwatches, and car systems.
  • Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Connectivity: Improved precision with U1 chip, benefiting users of Apple ecosystem products like AirTags.
  • Enhanced Water-Resistance: Upgraded rating, offering better protection against accidental spills.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Upgrades: Expanded possibilities for both entertainment and productivity.
  • Apple Wallet Integration: More streamlined with faster response times and increased security for digital transactions.
  • Overall Connectivity and Extras: Essential in delivering a smooth, consistent, and enjoyable user experience, contributing significantly beyond headline-grabbing features like camera upgrades.

The inclusion of a U1 chip has made Ultra-Wideband (UWB) connections even more precise. This type of improvement in connectivity is especially important for people using products in the Apple ecosystem, such as AirTags. With the new iPhone 15 Pro, finding your belongings is easier, faster, and more accurate.

To keep the tradition of adding something extra that may not be strictly necessary but would definitely add to the premium feel of the iPhone, Apple has always added some bonus features to its devices. The iPhone 15 Pro continues this tradition with some neat add-ons. An enhanced water-resistance rating makes accidental spills less worrying than they might have been with previous models. Additionally, the augmented reality (AR) capabilities have seen upgrades, opening up a plethora of possibilities for both entertainment and productivity.

Another notable addition, although not new to the Apple family but enhanced for the 15 Pro, is the Apple Wallet integration. It’s more streamlined, with faster response times and added layers of security, ensuring that your digital transactions are both swift and safe.

In summary, the iPhone 15 Pro delivers when it comes to connectivity and those little extras that elevate the overall experience. While these features might not grab headlines as camera upgrades or software enhancements do, they play a pivotal role in making the daily user experience smooth, consistent, and enjoyable.

8. Price and Availability

Apple’s events are always accompanied by huge anticipation among iPhone users, and the September 2023 launch was no exception. On Tuesday, September 12, Apple announced the new generation of iPhone, which included the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. The excitement didn’t stop there; pre-orders for these models went live on Friday, September 15, with shipping commencing a week later on September 22.

As far as storage options go, the iPhone 15 Pro has beaten its predecessors and even the other devices of the 15 series. The iPhone 15 Pro can be bought with storage capacities that range between 128GB and a whopping 1TB. Surprisingly, even the iPhone 15 Pro Max offers fewer storage options by axing the 128GB version. This pushed the device’s starting price up by $100 compared to the previous year. Below, there is a breakdown of the iPhone 15 Pro pricing:

Storage US price UK price AU price
128GB $999 £999 AU$1,849
256GB $1,099 £1,099 AU$2,049
512GB $1,299 £1,299 AU$2,399
1TB $1,499 £1,499 AU$2,749

In terms of pricing dynamics, US customers will be relieved to find the iPhone 15 Pro maintaining the same price structure as the previous iPhone 14 Pro. For UK buyers, there’s a welcome sigh of relief as the prices have been lowered, now mirroring US prices numerically after the unwelcome surge experienced with the last model. Australians, however, will have to grapple with slightly elevated prices compared to last year’s models. Apple attributes these pricing discrepancies to fluctuating exchange rates on foreign currencies relative to US pricing.

For a broader market perspective, let’s bring the iPhone 15 Pro’s arch-nemesis into the picture: Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series. The entry-level Galaxy S23, with a 128GB storage and 6.1-inch display, is priced $200 lower than the iPhone 15 Pro’s starting price. The starting price on the US market for the Galaxy S23 Plus, which boasts a 6.6-inch display and a base storage of 256GB, is the same as the iPhone 15 Pro’s base price of $999. Smartphone users looking for more high-end solutions can compare the Galaxy S23 Ultra to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which boasts base storage of 256GB and has a starting price of $1,199.

Based on what we have discovered, we can conclude that the iPhone 15 Pro is very competitive when it comes to its pricing ranges, being on par with its direct competitors on the market. With the iPhone 15 Pro being offered in different storage variants, the availability of the model and its price ranges can play a major role in consumers’ decisions whenever they are comparing Apple’s rivals.

9. Conclusion

Like the rest of Apple’s iPhone iterations, the iPhone 15 Pro is a device that shows Apple’s commitment to providing innovative, polished, and refined products. At its core, this new iPhone product is not simply concerned with the introduction of new specifications or boosting the price tag but rather strives to ensure the best user experience.

Although similar to previous models, the Super Retina XDR OLED display strives to deliver the best content consumption experience by boasting the most vibrant and clear visuals. The cameras, with their professional-level abilities and tweaks, give users the tools to create and capture moments like never before. Despite some users having mixed feelings about the new Action button and Dynamic Island, these features serve as a testament to Apple’s determination to turn even potential drawbacks into strong selling points.

Software-wise, iOS 17 may not be the revolution some expected, but it’s a stable and polished platform with new features like NameDrop and Check In that add to the device’s overall appeal. And when it comes to longevity, Apple’s commitment to at least five years of OS updates (if not more) assures buyers that their investment will remain relevant and functional for years to come.

New iPhone launches always spark conversations among users. One thing that deserves admiration is the consistency with the price range in the US market, staying within the ranges introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro launch. That said, price fluctuations in foreign markets are possible, which is often due to external factors like exchange rates. However, Apple has been completely transparent about that. Yet, even with these fluctuations, the iPhone 15 Pro holds its own against competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S23 series, both in terms of features and value proposition.

Despite all, no smartphone device is perfect, which is why Apple has been subject to some criticism. Some users believe that the launch of the new iPhone series could have brought more features that would truly differentiate the iPhone 15 Pro from its predecessors. Others might have hoped for a more drastic design overhaul or groundbreaking features. But in the grand scheme of things, the iPhone 15 Pro represents the more sophisticated experience that the smartphone industry can currently offer to consumers.

In conclusion, there is so much more to the new iPhone 15 Pro than simply new specifications. This device represents Apple’s vision for what the future of smartphone technology could hold. The newly launched iPhone boasts a sophisticated look, more endurance, and a user-friendly design. Whether you’re an Apple loyalist or someone contemplating a switch, the iPhone 15 Pro stands tall as a testament to innovation and elegance in a crowded marketplace.

10. Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Stunning Titanium Build: One again, Apple has outdone itself when it comes to providing premium design by introducing a beautiful titanium finish.
  • USB-C At Last: Shifting away from the Lightning port, the iPhone 15 Pro finally embraces the USB-C standard, enhancing connectivity and compatibility.
  • Powerful A17 Pro Chip: Performance leaps forward with the all-new A17 Pro chip, ensuring swift multitasking and seamless user experience.

Cons:

  • Selective Camera Enhancements: While there are upgrades, they might appeal more to niche users than the general consumer.
  • Battery Stagnation: Despite the advancements in other areas, there’s no notable change to battery longevity or its charging capabilities.
  • Outpaced Telephoto Zoom: The 3x telephoto zoom, once a standout, now falls behind some of Apple’s other offerings in terms of capability.

11. User Reviews and Feedback

Gathering user reviews, it’s evident that the iPhone 15 Pro has received a range of feedback from its user base. Below are some of the notable reviews and comments:

12. Images and Videos

iPhone 15 Pro – Front View

A close-up showcasing the sleek front design, the Dynamic Island, and the vibrant display of the iPhone 15 Pro.
A close-up showcasing the sleek front design, the Dynamic Island, and the vibrant display of the iPhone 15 Pro.

iPhone 15 Pro – Rear View

Highlighting the titanium finish, the camera setup, and the Apple logo centered perfectly.
Highlighting the titanium finish, the camera setup, and the Apple logo centered perfectly.

iPhone 15 Pro – Side View

A side shot revealing the USB-C port, the phone's slim profile, and the button placements.
A side shot revealing the USB-C port, the phone’s slim profile, and the button placements.

New Action Button

Image of the innovative designed by Apple for the new Action button.
Image of the innovative designed by Apple for the new Action button.

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