iPhone 15 Pro Review – Better than you think.
The iPhone 15 Pro and its larger counterpart, the 15 Pro Max, might initially come across as just another set of phones in Apple’s ever-growing lineup. At a cursory glance, they don’t seem to boast a groundbreaking feature like the iPhone 14’s dynamic Island or the iPhone 13’s 120Hz ProMotion display.
Even Apple’s promotional materials for these devices highlight features that many users have grown accustomed to over the years. Aesthetically, there isn’t a bold new color or design element that sets them apart. In fact, some might argue that this is one of Apple’s more subdued releases in recent memory.
However, as with many things, the devil is in the details. After spending considerable time with the iPhone 15 Pro, it becomes evident that Apple has focused on refining the user experience, with a particular emphasis on the camera system.
First Impressions: Unboxing the iPhone 15 Pro
Apple’s packaging is always a topic of discussion, and with the iPhone 15 Pro, there’s a noticeable change. The black box that was synonymous with the Pro models is gone, likely a move to be more environmentally conscious by using less ink.
Inside the box, you’re greeted with the familiar sight of the iPhone, accompanied by a new USB-C cable. This isn’t just any cable; it’s reinforced with woven fiber, hinting at Apple’s focus on durability. However, it’s worth noting that while the iPhone 15 Pros support USB 3 speeds, the default cable doesn’t tap into this potential.
The Action Button: A New Addition
Apple’s design philosophy often revolves around minimalism, so any new addition to their devices is noteworthy. The action button, which replaces the traditional Ring/Silent switch, is a testament to Apple’s focus on functionality.
Its utility becomes evident when you realize that a half-second press activates the camera, and it can double up as a shutter button. This seamless integration ensures that users can capture spontaneous moments without fumbling through menus or buttons.
Call Quality: An Underappreciated Enhancement
In the age of instant messaging and social media, the importance of call quality can sometimes be overlooked. However, Apple has made strides in this department. The voice isolation feature is a game-changer, effectively filtering out background noise.
Whether you’re on a FaceTime call with loved ones or a Zoom meeting for work, the clarity offered ensures that you’re heard without any distractions.
Performance: The A17 Pro Chip
Under the hood, the iPhone 15 Pro is powered by the new A17 Pro chip. On paper, the improvements might seem incremental—a 10% faster CPU and a 20% boost in graphics performance. But in real-world usage, these enhancements translate to a smoother experience, especially for gamers.
Titles like “Resident Evil Village” run with a finesse that rivals consoles, hinting at the potential of mobile gaming in the future.
Design Refinements
Apple’s design changes are often subtle, but they contribute to the overall user experience. The iPhone 15 Pro is no exception. The shift to Titanium makes the device lighter, and the contoured edges ensure a comfortable grip.
The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, does come with a caveat—it might be more prone to scratches, though it hides them better than glossy finishes.
The Camera System: More Than Meets the Eye
The camera system on the iPhone 15 Pro is a marvel, not due to any single feature, but how everything synergizes. For instance, the iPhone 15 Pros take 24-megapixel photos by default.
While this might not sound groundbreaking, especially when compared to the 200-megapixel shots from competitors, it’s the efficiency and speed of capturing these high-resolution photos that stand out.
The file format, HEIF, ensures that these high-res images are stored in half the size of traditional JPEGs. This means you get more detailed photos without compromising storage space.
Motion Photos and Portrait Mode
Motion photos capture the moments leading up to a shot, providing a richer context. This feature was invaluable when creating memorable videos. Additionally, the new iPhones have revolutionized portrait mode. Now, you don’t need to switch to a separate mode to capture portraits. The camera automatically detects subjects and captures depth information, allowing you to adjust the portrait effect post-capture.
Photonic Engine and HDR
The Photonic Engine, introduced last year, enhances image detail and color accuracy. Now, it’s available across all camera modes, including portrait and night mode. The results are evident, especially when capturing the night sky. The improvements in HDR are also significant, addressing Apple’s historical challenges in this area.
Zoom Capabilities
The iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a 5x optical zoom lens camera, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. This isn’t just a lens enhancement; the Pro Max has a larger sensor and better stabilization. The results are clear, even at 10x zoom. The natural separation between the subject and the background eliminates the need for portrait mode in many scenarios.
However, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this zoom system. While the 5x zoom is impressive, the range between 2x and 5x relies on digital zoom, which can compromise image quality.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life has been a point of contention for previous iPhone models. The iPhone 15 Pros, however, have improved upon their predecessors with a larger battery, optimized software, and better heat dissipation. While the charging speed remains unchanged, the iPhone 15s can now reverse charge devices like AirPods. Moreover, the USB-C capability means you can charge almost any device, making the iPhone a versatile charging hub.
The USB-C Transition: Stability and Future-Proofing
One of the most anticipated changes in the iPhone lineup has been the transition to USB-C. This move brings a sense of stability for users. With the switch now official, you can confidently invest in USB-C accessories, knowing they won’t become obsolete anytime soon.
While there have been whispers about a portless iPhone, such a transition seems distant. The current USB-C port offers benefits like listening to lossless music, transferring large ProRes video files, and piloting drones with minimal latency.
Pricing and Value Proposition
When evaluating the iPhone 15s, the pricing plays a crucial role. The Pro remains at $999, while the Pro Max has seen a $100 increase, now priced at $1,199. The standard Pro offers a well-rounded experience, addressing many of Apple’s past inconsistencies and integrating various camera features seamlessly. It’s a refined iteration that justifies its price tag.
The Pro Max, on the other hand, might be a tougher sell for some. The primary differences between the Pro and Pro Max are the storage and the upgrade from a 3x to a 5x lens. While this is an enhancement, it’s not groundbreaking.
In some scenarios, the 5x lens might even produce inferior results compared to the 3x. However, for those seeking the pinnacle of iPhone experiences, the Pro Max remains the go-to choice, especially considering its battery performance.
It’s also worth noting that the quoted prices from Apple are US-centric. In regions like the UK, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is priced similarly to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, but with double the storage, offering even more value.
