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iPhone 15 models (Plus, Pro, Pro Max) and prices – explained

Apple strives for new levels of innovation again with its iPhone 15 models
Last Updated on September 13, 2023
A comprehensive breakdown of the iPhone 15 models and their prices. Image shows the text "iPhone 15 models (Plus, Pro, Pro Max) and prices - explained" next to a pink iPhone 15, on a blue yellow gradient background.
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The highly anticipated Apple Wonderlust event on September 12th, 2023, brought us several exciting announcements. However, the spotlight was undoubtedly shining on the iPhone 15 lineup. Apple introduced four new models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Each model offers unique features and upgrades, catering to a wide range of user preferences and needs.

In this article, we will explore each of these new iPhone models, including their features and pricing. Let’s get started.

iPhone 15 models

iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus serve as the standard models in the lineup. While they may not boast the advanced features of their Pro counterparts, they still pack a bunch of nice features and five new color options – yellow, pink, green, blue, and black. Apple continues to push boundaries, with the colors of the 15 being infused throughout the back glass and the Ceramic Shield front cover being stronger than any other smartphone according to Apple.

These models come equipped with the powerful A16 Bionic chip, ensuring seamless performance and efficient multitasking. Additionally, both phones feature the Dynamic Island, and star a powerful 48MP Main camera with a new 2x Telephoto option which gives users super-resolution photos with three optical zoom levels. Furthermore, users may be happy to hear that they can now take portraits without switching to portrait mode.

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max

For those seeking the pinnacle of iPhone technology, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are the go-to choices. These models take innovation to new heights with their titanium bodies, ultra-thin bezels, and higher starting prices. The Pro models also introduce the Action Button, replacing the traditional mute toggle. Alongside these enhancements, the Pro models feature a new USB-C port, offering faster charging and data transfer capabilities.

Eager to reach new heights of phone performance, the 15 Pro debuts the A17 pro chip, which represents the “biggest GPU design in Apple’s history”. The 6-core GPU and elevated CPU expands what’s possible on an iPhone, bringing increased peak performance, energy efficiency, and even ray tracing capabilities. Essentially, gaming on an iPhone will be better than ever.

Finally, iPhone camera and video capture are getting upgrades exclusive to the 15 and iPhone Pro Max. The new innovative Telephoto camera on the Pro Max introduces 5x at 120mm, the longest ever optical zoom on an iPhone.

Coming later this year, a new dimension to video will be unlocked with the 15 Pro having the ability to record spatial video for the Apple Vision Pro. You can find out more about the Vision Pro specs and release date here, but it’s expected early next year.

iPhone 15 features

Grid Forecast in Apple Home App

Apple’s move toward carbon neutrality extends beyond hardware. With the introduction of iOS 17, the Apple Home app now includes Grid Forecast, a feature that informs users about the availability of cleaner energy on their power grid. This empowers users to make conscious decisions about energy consumption, optimizing their usage for a lighter environmental footprint.

New Ringtones and Sounds

iOS 17 brings more than 20 new ringtones and sound alerts to the iPhone 15 lineup. From classic RPG-inspired tones to fresh sounds, users can personalize their devices phone calls and alarms with these additional options.

Satellite-powered Roadside Assistance

Apple has partnered with AAA to bring satellite-powered Roadside Assistance to the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14. By leveraging Apple’s Emergency Text via satellite feature, users can access help for car-related emergencies, such as being locked out or running out of fuel, even in areas with no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.

USB-C

The iPhone 15 series is the first set of iPhone models with a USB-C charging port instead of the usual lightning cable. The USB-C allows for faster data transfer and charging speeds. Also, with this USB-C implementation on the new iPhone 15 models, iPhone users can now use the same charging cable used for their iPad, Macs, and updated Airpods Pro.

Pricing

The price of the iPhone 15 varies, depending on the model you are buying. The storage capacity of the iPhone 15 model you are buying will also determine how much you end up paying. 

To be more specific, the pricing of the iPhone 15 standard model (128GB) starts from $799, while the price of the iPhone Plus model (128GB) starts from $899. On the other hand, the pricing of the iPhone 15 Pro model (128GB) starts from $999, while that of the iPhone 15 Pro Max model (128GB) starts from $1,199. 

Pre-ordering and Availability

Excitement for the iPhone 15 models is at an all-time high, and pre-orders are set to begin on Friday, September 15th, with shipping scheduled for September 22nd. Apple enthusiasts can choose from the various models, configurations, and colors, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for everyone’s preferences and budget.

Conclusion

The iPhone 15 lineup, accompanied by the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, has set the stage for a new era of innovation and sustainability. With cutting-edge features, enhanced performance, and a commitment to reducing environmental impact, Apple continues to push boundaries and delight its loyal customers. 

Whether you opt for the standard models or the Pro variants, the iPhone 15 lineup promises an exceptional user experience that caters to your every need. Get ready to embrace the future with Apple’s latest offerings!

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.