As we eagerly anticipate the launch of the latest iPhone 15 series, those in the know, specifically case manufacturers, are placing significant bets by investing a fair chunk of change into hunting down every morsel of leaked info on potential design revamps. Their ultimate goal? To be the first off the blocks with cases that fit the new designs like a glove. The upshot of their detective work often leads to the creation of ‘dummy’ models – essentially, exact mock-ups of the yet-to-be-released iPhones. In fact, we’re about to let you in on the iPhone 15 dummy models we’ve managed to get hold of.
Armed with a set of these dummies, we’ve got a first-hand look at the imminent iPhone 15 lineup, encompassing the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. These are the four dazzling stars set to grace Apple’s September 2023 launch. Sure, the rumor mill has been in overdrive, but there’s nothing quite like seeing the physical transformations and design tweaks with your own eyes.
At a casual first glance, you might find the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro mirror the aesthetics of their predecessors, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro. But, upon closer inspection, key differences become apparent. Case in point – the Lightning ports are heading for the exit, making way for the USB-C era. All the models sport these ports, promising a universal charging experience that aligns with the latest Mac and iPad devices.
USB-C ports on all iPhone 15 series
Though the USB-C ports on both iPhone 15 and Pro models might seem indistinguishable, the Pro models are anticipated to pack a punch with accelerated data transfer rates, potentially even boasting Thunderbolt compatibility. We’ve also caught wind of Apple limiting certain features to their own ‘Made for iPhone’ cables, but only time will tell if that applies here.
Rumors abound of an understated design refinement gracing the iPhone 15’s corners. A slight rounding offers a gentler feel in hand, showcasing a softer aesthetic. The speculated switch from stainless steel to titanium for the Pro models is an unseen feature in our dummies. The real McCoy will likely flaunt a chic matte finish, deviating from the glossy exteriors of these models. Our models display a frosted glass rear, hinting at a future where such an upscale touch spans all models.
Come 2023, we expect all iPhone models to bid adieu to the iconic notch, welcoming the arrival of the Dynamic Island across the range. Presently exclusive to iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, the lower-cost iPhone 15 isn’t missing out on this aesthetic evolution.
A notable characteristic of the Pro and Pro Max dummies is the unified volume button. However, a last-minute redesign could alter this. Initial plans to incorporate solid-state technology fell through due to unresolved bugs, pushing this feature to the iPhone 16’s to-do list. So, it’s plausible that we might revert to the traditional dual-button volume control.
The mute switch is definitely getting the axe, morphing into a sleek, purposeful button. This newcomer will sit atop the volume controls, potentially functioning as a programmable Action button, much like the one on the Apple Watch Ultra. Akin to a digital Swiss Army knife, this versatile button will accomplish much more than just silencing your device.
While the camera’s outward appearance hasn’t significantly changed, the iPhone 15 Pro Max harbors a secret weapon. Inside, there’s space allocated for a new periscope lens, offering a staggering 6x optical zoom. Due to the considerable space it demands, this feature is exclusive to the Pro Max variant.
With approximately four months till the grand unveiling, the iPhone 15 designs are locked in.
