Apple fans worldwide are buzzing about the iPhone 15… the camera, the charging port, the features, the construction.
The hype is not unusual. Apple pours a lot of money into product development and marketing. Over the years, Apple users have eagerly anticipated reveal events to hear important updates to Apple’s product lineup.
It’s estimated there are 125 million iPhone users in the U.S. and more than 1 billion worldwide. John Joyce, co-owner of CRS Technology Consultants, was invited into the ABC7 studio for a Tech Bytes segment covering the new device.
“Apple fans are fiercely loyal,” John explains. “It’s one of those things that comes around every year, almost on cadence, and that’s very intentional. Every year, we get that iPhone and Apple fans get all whipped up about it.”
The reveal event has become a cultural moment for iPhone users who anxiously await new features.
The rundown: iPhone 15
Apple revealed the iPhone 15, as well as the Pro and Pro Max versions, on Sept. 12, 2023. The feature grabbing the most attention – a USB-C connector – isn’t really new. It’s just new to the iPhone. According to Apple, the “USB‑C connector is supercharged with USB 3 speeds – up to 20x faster than USB 2.” This allows for faster charging times and faster transfer times for those who upload images and videos to computers.
“You’ve seen it on almost every other device you’ve had for years,” John says. “Apple was holding onto their lightning connector for over a decade.”
The European Union probably forced Apple’s hand by requiring all cell phones sold there to have USB-C by the end of 2024. It’s the same connector that iPads and iMacs use.
“It’s bad news in that your house full of chargers might not work anymore,” John says. “The good news is, chances are, the charger for every other device you own works just fine.”
Five other upgrades are worth noting:
- Camera: A 48-MP camera captures high-resolution images. An improved light sensor lets users take better pictures in low lighting. Better image stabilization means videos don’t shake if your hands move while recording.
- Dynamic Island: This is a page that displays everything happening on your phone.
- A16 Bionic: Phones run faster and conserve battery life with this new computer chip.
- Brighter screen: This is helpful in Southwest Florida on bright, sunny days.
- Find My Friends: The iPhone now offers better precision when trying to find someone in a crowded space.
When the first cell phones came to market in the 1980s, the devices were meant for talking. That changed when Apple released its original iPhone in 2007, and it has changed ever since.
“It’s not just a phone anymore,” John says. “It’s actually the primary computer for so many people.”
CHECK IT OUT: iPhone 15
Is now the time to upgrade?
Each year, Apple users always ask: “Is this the time to upgrade my iPhone?
The answer to that question depends on the age of your current iPhone and how you use the device.
“If you’re getting even the basic iPhone 15, you’re actually getting a lot of the camera system from last year’s iPhone 14 Pro that you used to have to pay hundreds of dollars more for,” John says. “Now, you’re getting it in the base model.”
The base model of the iPhone 15 is full of features previously available only on Pro or Pro Max models. It has 128GB of storage and retails for $799. That represents a $200-$300 discount on the iPhone 14’s higher-end models.
So the answer to the question is:
- If you have an iPhone 13 basic model, or anything 12 or below – YES, it’s time to consider an upgrade. With older phones, battery life can diminish, camera quality is rudimentary and security updates may not be available.
- If you have an iPhone 13 Pro or Pro Max, or any version of the iPhone 14 – MAYBE, if your carrier is offering a special promotion.
The base model of the iPhone 15 is a good option if you believe in value; you’re getting a lot of features for the introductory price.
The Pro and Pro Max models have titanium-based construction, making the device lighter, but sturdier.
Discussing the iPhone 15
Each week, CRS Technology Consultants produces an original podcast – Solid State Podcast – that addresses the latest news, events, trends and cultural moments defining the technology industry. Solid State Podcast is hosted by a trio of tech experts:
- John Joyce, Co-owner
- Eric Sargent, Security Lead
- Cody Toscano, Systems Engineer
Solid State Podcast explores technology products, people and services that impact the daily lives of Southwest Florida residents, businesses and nonprofit organizations. Of course, that includes the iPhone 15. The trio discussed the new iPhone, as well as other Apple products, during a recent episode.
LISTEN: Solid State Podcast: Apple’s 2023 ‘Wanderlust’ iPhone and Apple Watch Event
