The Pro devices have undergone a substantial weight reduction, as titanium has taken the place of steel in the construction of the new bodies. When I hefted one, it was quite evident that the lightweight design would not be cumbersome in the least.
On Tuesday, Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 at its headquarters in Cupertino, California. The four new models range in price from $799 to $1199 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. When I had the chance to test the devices, it was not the minor alterations that made me go "wow", it was their significantly lighter body made of titanium replacing the steel which makes them easier to hold and not as heavy in one's pocket.
I firmly believe that the reduction in weight is so major that people who still have the Pro models from last year should contemplate getting the new one. After all, one holds smartphones for long periods of time, and a slight fade in weight creates a much more agreeable experience. Apple states that the 6-inch iPhone 15 Pro is a mere 187 grams, which is 9% lighter than its predecessor, while the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max is even 8% lighter.
In the 2001 comedy "Zoolander," one memorable gag spoofed cell phones by implying they would get smaller and smaller until they were a tiny speck. This prediction turned out to be wrong as people wanted bigger, brighter screens and longer battery life, and were happy to accept a larger device in return. Apple's "pro"-level iPhone with a 6-inch screen has been growing heavier since 2019, and the mini iPhones, introduced in 2020, haven't been popular or received an update for two years. However, the trend has shifted with the iPhone 15 - although the Pro Max models, with their even bigger screens and longer battery life, are heavy, the titanium body on this year's model makes it easier to handle. It's weightlessness might be enough to convince some people to upgrade, even if the cost of $999 (or more, if you need extra storage) for an iPhone 15 Pro is steep. I'm interested in making the switch, if only to save my pinky finger from having to bear the weight of my device when I use it.
The hues of this year's version are not really striking. Specifically, the titanium tints on the iPhone 15 Pros don't offer much vibrancy and appear muted from a distance, akin to gunmetal nuances. Apple has decided to stop providing leather and silicone cases; they have been substituted by a brand-new woven material case which is not very striking. Looking at it from afar, it is like last year's silicone.The basic iPhone 15, which comes in two sizes, hasn't seen much of a change in its exterior compared to the prior version. Nevertheless, the borders surrounding the front have been made sleeker, which is a nice touch.
The entry-level iPhone 15 models include the "Dynamic Island," a software addition that conceals the front-facing camera beneath the display. The iPhone 15 Pro Max had its start rate raised by $100 to $1,199 in America, although the base model has more storage.
The button that has taken the place of the mute switch on the Pro phones offers an amusing animation when held down. I imagine a lot of people will likely set it to launch the camera app quickly.
This year, USB-C is the go-to port for all devices - and it's fantastic. Not only can those with a Mac, iPhone, and wireless headphones all use the same charger, but now Android phone users can borrow a charger from an iPhone user - and the other way around - making recharging just a tad bit simpler for iPhone users.
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