With Apple’s hotly anticipated ‘Wonderlust’ event just days away, new leaks from reliable sources like MacRumors are adding fuel to the fire of speculation surrounding the iPhone 15 series. The most tantalizing tidbit? The iPhone 15 Pro is expected to be significantly lighter than its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro. But before you start daydreaming about how much easier it’ll be to carry around, bear in mind that this comes with a catch: a major price hike.
The Weight Difference: Thank Titanium for That
According to MacRumors, Apple is making a notable shift in the materials used for the iPhone 15 Pro. The device will feature a new midframe made from Grade 5 Titanium, making it up to 10 percent lighter than the iPhone 14 Pro. Specifically, the iPhone 15 Pro will weigh 188 grams compared to the iPhone 14 Pro’s 206 grams. Grade 5 Titanium is known for its superior corrosion resistance and is widely used across various industries.
While the device’s weight will decrease, the dimensions are mostly similar to the previous model. However, the iPhone 15 Pro will be slightly thicker—8.25mm compared to the iPhone 14 Pro’s 7.85mm. The slight increase in thickness may be easily overlooked, considering the other advancements Apple is set to introduce.
The New Display Tech: LIPO and Thinner Bezels
The display technology is getting a significant bump in the iPhone 15 Pro as well. Apple will be introducing a new technology known as LIPO (“low-injection pressure over-molding”) to its iPhone 15 Pro displays. This feature is set to reduce the bezel size from the current 2.2mm to approximately 1.55mm. Although the weight and bezel size are not the only upgrades expected, they certainly contribute to Apple’s effort in differentiating its Pro models from the standard line-up.
The Price Conundrum: Higher Costs for Higher Quality?
It’s no secret that Apple’s focus on premium materials like titanium and advanced technology like LIPO will drive up the manufacturing costs. This year, the iPhone 15 Pro is expected to start from $1,099, which is a $100 increase over last year’s model. The iPhone 15 Pro Max will see a $200 hike, making its starting price a hefty $1,299.
Given these changes, the question arises: Are consumers willing to part with more cash for a lighter, more technologically advanced device? Apple’s pricing strategy may cause consumers to weigh their options more carefully.
Looking Forward
The leaked dimensions and weight specs of the iPhone 15 series, while not confirmed, are some of the best insights we have into what we can expect at Apple’s forthcoming ‘Wonderlust’ event. As we inch closer to the grand unveiling, these leaks provide a partial yet compelling overview of Apple’s next generation of iPhones.
Are these changes enough to warrant the expected price hike? That’s a question that will have to wait until we get our hands on the new devices. What’s undeniable, however, is that Apple is once again pushing the envelope in smartphone design and technology. And in doing so, the tech giant is setting the stage for yet another major showdown in the highly competitive smartphone market.
