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Published Oct 2, 2023

iPhone 15 Review: Welcome to the Club!

Marques Brownlee unpacks the iPhone 15's subtle evolution, from its refined design and display choices to its A16 Bionic performance and camera enhancements, questioning Apple's strategy while noting improvements that make it a compelling upgrade for existing users.
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  • Hardware

    The iPhone 15 introduces notable hardware changes, particularly in its camera system. highlights the upgrade to a 48-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, which, despite having a smaller sensor than the Pro model, features a larger aperture of f/1.6 for improved performance 1. This combination of binning and detailed transfer results in a default 24-megapixel photo, enhancing image quality over previous models.

    These new cameras are actually weird, but in a good way.

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    This upgrade makes the iPhone 15's photos more detailed than last year's Pro models, even though they share the same chip and neural engine 1.

       

    Software

    The iPhone 15's software enhancements focus on camera functionality, introducing features like auto portrait mode detection. explains that this feature allows users to capture depth information without switching modes, enabling later conversion to portrait photos 1. This is particularly useful for capturing human subjects, pets, or when tapping to focus, as it automatically records the necessary data for portrait mode.

    You don't have to switch to portrait mode to take a photo that captures all of the depth information.

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    Despite having the same chip as last year's Pro model, this feature is exclusive to the iPhone 15, enhancing its appeal 1.

       

    Experience

    User experience with the iPhone 15 is shaped by its subtle yet impactful improvements. notes that while the phone may not appear drastically different, the enhancements in camera quality and functionality make it feel like a better device 1. The auto portrait mode and improved photo resolution contribute to a more refined user experience, offering more detailed and versatile photography options.

    They've stacked up enough of these subtle improvements that it feels like an appreciably better phone.

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    For users with older iPhone models, the iPhone 15 presents a compelling upgrade, especially with its transition to USB-C, which aligns with modern connectivity standards 1.

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