Apple shocked iPhone fans last year with the extent of differentiation between iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models. Now a new leak has revealed that the gap between them will grow even wider with the iPhone 15 line-up.
Working with Apple leaker Unknownz21, MacRumors has revealed multiple specification and design differences between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models, including information sourced from leaked internal Apple documents. Unknownz21 has a remarkable track record, once sourcing an early version of iOS 14 months ahead of release.
Early iPhone 15 Ultra concept shows flat rather than curved edges
The leaker’s latest information is unlikely to go down well with iPhone buyers on a budget. MacRumors states that documents he obtained “confirm” that Apple’s new 3nm A17 chipset will be exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro models, as will a redesigned chassis with solid state power and volume buttons. Even the phones’ connectivity will be different, with Wi-Fi 6E reserved for the Pros — something previous leaks had not distinguished.
For this latter point, given its unprecedented nature (for example, all iPhone 14 models used Wi-Fi 6), Unknownz21 publicly released the documentation. He also called this “the tip of the iceberg,” with additional leaks, including full images, to follow ahead of the range’s EVT (Engineering Validation Test) stage, which begins in March.
Considering that multiple leaks have already told us that iPhone 15 Pro models will again have superior cameras and exclusive ProMotion displays, there is almost nowhere the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will have parity with their more expensive siblings.
Apple iPhone 15 Ultra concept based on early leaks
Apple is taking a big risk here. Sales of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus have been underwhelming, with buyers choosing to spread the higher cost of Pro models over carrier contracts for the clear benefits they bring. So widening that gap is unlikely to give the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus the sales boost.
According to leaks, Apple’s solution is a classic carrot and stick strategy. The carrot is Apple will allegedly bring the Dynamic Island design to standard models. The stick is higher iPhone 15 Pro prices. Whether the gamble pays off, only time will tell.
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