Apple released the iPhone 15 series in September 2023, nearly a year ago. Time flies!
Recently, at WWDC 2024, Apple showcased iOS 18, the latest software updates. While many iPhones are compatible with iOS 18, only the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will fully benefit from the AI-driven update.
Surprisingly, the iPhone 15, released less than a year ago, won’t receive the complete iOS 18 experience this fall. This raises questions about the relevance of the iPhone 15 in 2024.
Revisiting the iPhone 15 after the WWDC, I decided to examine it with fresh eyes.
What I still like about the iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 received significant upgrades this year compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 14, which still stand out.
The matte finish on the back glass, a departure from the previous glossy design, is impressive. The matte glass reduces fingerprints and smudges, making it more aesthetically pleasing.
The lightweight feel of the iPhone 15, with its aluminum body and curved edges, enhances user comfort during extended use.
The camera improvements on the iPhone 15 are commendable, offering comparable performance to the iPhone 15 Pro. The new Auto Portrait mode is a standout feature, enhancing the photography experience.
The display quality of the iPhone 15 is impressive, with vibrant colors and sharp text. Despite the 60Hz refresh rate, which may not be as smooth as higher refresh rates, it doesn’t significantly impact daily usage.
The iPhone 15 will soon be outdated
With the introduction of iOS 18 at WWDC 2024, Apple emphasized the adoption of Apple Intelligence, offering exclusive features to iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max users. This disparity highlights the rapid obsolescence of the year-old iPhone 15.
While iOS 18 brings various new features accessible to all iPhones, the core Apple Intelligence functionalities can only be experienced on select models. Siri, for instance, receives significant updates that won’t be available on the iPhone 15 and earlier versions.
Despite other enhancements in iOS 18, the reliance on Apple Intelligence for key features raises concerns about the iPhone 15’s longevity and user experience.
A short life for the iPhone 15
The iPhone 15, once a solid choice for many users, now faces obsolescence with the release of iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence. The advancements in software capabilities outpace the hardware of the iPhone 15, making it less appealing in 2024.
As iOS updates increasingly exclude older devices, the iPhone 15’s limitations become apparent. The decision to prioritize newer models for advanced features like Apple Intelligence may disappoint existing iPhone 15 users.
For current iPhone 15 owners, the device will remain functional until the release of iOS 18 in September. However, for prospective buyers, waiting for the iPhone 16 or opting for an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max to fully utilize iOS 18’s features may be a wiser choice.
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