Apple is facing significant production issues with the camera sensors and titanium chassis for the iPhone 15 models, which may impact availability, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is experiencing delays in manufacturing, potentially causing problems for early upgraders.
The upcoming iPhone 15 series is rumored to feature a switch from Lightning to USB-C ports, a design with skinnier bezels and a Dynamic Island cutout, easier repairability, upgraded ultra wideband for integration with Apple's AR headset, 15-watt wireless charging, a periscope-style telephoto lens, solid-state buttons for the Pro models, increased RAM for the Pro models, and potential price increases, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max possibly receiving a $100 to $200 price hike.
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are expected to have a $100 price increase over the current models, according to analyst Dan Ives, but promotional activities and discounts from U.S. carriers are likely to drive sales and offset potential resistance.
The upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will have the same storage capacity options as the iPhone 14 Pro models, with increased RAM for improved performance and a potential price increase for the Pro Max model.
Apple's new iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are already facing shipping delays into October, with the Pro Max model experiencing a 2-3 week estimate, while the Pro, standard, and Plus models face shorter or no delays.
Apple has made repairs easier and cheaper for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max by introducing a removable glass back, with back glass replacements costing $169 and $199 respectively, and those with AppleCare+ only paying $29, while the cost of battery replacements for Apple Watches has increased from $79 to $99.
The iPhone 15 Pro features a redesigned internal chassis architecture that makes repairs easier and cheaper, specifically allowing for easier replacement of the back glass.
Some iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max devices are being shipped with defects such as color issues, display misalignment, and scratches, prompting users to contact Apple for replacements.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a redesigned frame that allows for easier glass panel removal, resulting in lower repair fees, and features a tetraprism system for 5x optical zoom, but received a low repairability score due to Apple's parts pairing requirement.
Luxury firm GRAY has announced the Alter Ego line of cases for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, made with aerospace-grade titanium and priced up to $1,899, matching the cost of the phones themselves.
