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 iPhone 15 Pro is expected to feature a lighter titanium frame and a more curved design, addressing the design flaws and discomfort of the iPhone 14 Pro.
The article discusses the new features of the iPhone 15 and whether it is worth upgrading from the iPhone 13, ultimately concluding that now is not the time to buy the new iPhone due to financial considerations and the lack of significant improvements for the average user.
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's rounded titanium edges do not provide better drop test durability compared to the iPhone 14 Pro's flat stainless band, as impact is spread into the front and back glass, causing spiderwebbing cracks.
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max feature titanium sides, which theoretically should make the phones more durable, although early reports suggest otherwise.
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 is found to have a similar design to the iPhone 14 in terms of repairability, with the ability to be opened from both the back and front, but its internal chassis architecture and removal of the display for certain repairs make battery switches riskier; meanwhile, the increase in battery capacity is deemed insufficient, and the titanium shell raises concerns about cost, difficulty in working with, and sustainability.
The iPhone 15 Pro has been reported to have overheating issues and a swollen battery, potentially posing a fire hazard and hindering its status as the best phone of 2023.
Phone drop tests conducted by video channel PhoneBluff reveal that both the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra suffered damage, including shattered screens and cracked rear panels, emphasizing the importance of using phone cases for protection.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max features improved camera capabilities, including additional framing options, enhanced video quality, better low-light performance, and the ability to add a portrait mode blur effect after taking a photo, making it Apple's best camera system to date.
The iPhone 15 Pro offers a lighter body, higher-resolution photos, a faster chipset, and a universal USB-C port, while the iPhone 14 Pro has a more luxurious feel with stainless steel and a lower price.
