Apple Unveils iPhone 15 Pro Max with Faster A17 Chip, Redesigned Frame, 5x Zoom Camera

A17 Pro chip and X70 modem enable faster speeds in iPhone 15 Pro Max
Redesigned frame allows for cheaper screen repairs without AppleCare+
5x optical zoom enabled by new tetraprism telephoto lens system
Similar logic board and lenses to iPhone 14 Pro Max beyond zoom
Rated low repairability score of 4/10 by iFixit, citing parts pairing requirement

macrumors.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/6/2023

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro Release Problems Hit Apple’s New iPhones

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.

9/17/2023

Apple Lowers iPhone 15 Pro Back Glass Repair Fees, Keeps Battery Replacement at $99 as Shipping Estimates Slip

Apple has updated its repair fees for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, offering significantly lower fees for repairing back glass damage compared to the previous models.

9/18/2023

iPhone 16 Pro Models to Get 5x Zoom Camera Next Year, Analyst Says

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature a tetraprism lens with up to 5x optical zoom, expanding on the feature introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

9/20/2023

Apple Touts 5x Optical Zoom and Other Camera Upgrades Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro Max

Apple's VP of camera software engineering, Jon McCormack, explains that the iPhone 15 Pro Max's 5x optical zoom is limited compared to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's 10x zoom because it can be stabilized better and allows for better light management with its lower aperture.

9/21/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Redesign Allows for Cheaper and Easier Back Glass Repairs

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.

9/24/2023

Some iPhone 15 Pro Units Arriving With Display and Glass Defects

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.

9/24/2023

Early Tests Question iPhone 15 Pro Durability Despite Titanium Frame

The new iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, which feature Grade 5 titanium frames, may not be as durable as advertised, as initial tests suggest they are still susceptible to damage and may even be more prone to scuffs, scratches, and cracks compared to the previous generation.

9/26/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Max Takes 2nd in DXOMARK Camera Tests, Excels in Video But Struggles in Photos Against Rivals

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has excellent video performance, including stabilization and color, but its drawbacks, such as the gap in the field of view between the main sensor and telephoto lens, leave it in second place overall in DXOMARK's camera review.

10/15/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Max Camera Upgrades Deliver Noticeably Better Photos

The iPhone 15 Pro Max's main camera with its larger sensor and improved exposure provides better fidelity, color, and contrast in photos compared to the iPhone 13 Pro, making it a significant upgrade for photography enthusiasts, especially in low-light scenarios.