Apple Has Unveiled the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch 9: Higher Prices, New Features, and EU-Mandated USB-C
Apple’s latest product launch event held in California revealed the tech giant’s new offerings: the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch 9, featuring higher price tags and some intriguing new features.
Price Hike: The base models of both the iPhone and Apple Watch now come with a steeper starting price, with the high-end iPhone model surpassing the $2000 mark.
Farewell to Lightning: In a surprising move, Apple announced the discontinuation of its proprietary Lightning power cord and port, replacing it with the more widely accepted USB-C cable. This decision, though presented as universal compatibility, was actually prompted by European regulatory pressure.
Dynamic Island Display: The iPhone 15 models will feature the “Dynamic Island,” replacing the distinctive notch. This versatile display can expand to display information such as song details, caller information, and more.
Camera and Titanium Enclosure: The iPhone 15 series boasts an impressive 48-megapixel camera and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens for improved zoom capabilities. The mute button has been replaced with the “action button,” offering customizable shortcuts. Additionally, the new iPhones will come clad in titanium for added strength and elegance.
A17 Chip for Speed: Powered by the A17 chip, these iPhones promise faster performance and quicker charging. They also feature a 5X telephoto lens.
Apple Watch 9
Gesture Control on Apple Watch 9: The Apple Watch 9 introduced a unique “double tap” gesture that allows users to answer calls or skip songs by merely tapping their index finger and thumb together. This hands-free feature leverages the internal gyroscope for added convenience. The gesture matches a similar movement we saw in the reveal of the Apple Vison Pro its upcoming VR device.
Environmentally Friendly Straps: Apple will discontinue leather straps on the Apple Watch due to environmental concerns. These will be replaced with “FineWoven” straps, touted to have a lower carbon impact.
Improved Battery and Performance: The new S9 chip on the Apple Watch promises enhanced battery life and performance.
USB-C Adoption Forced by EU: Apple’s shift to USB-C was not entirely voluntary but a result of EU regulations that mandated USB-C connectors for phones sold in the bloc starting in late 2024. This move aims to standardize charger ports across devices.
Price Increase: Apple has said that the standard iPhone 15 models will begin at $1,499, while the iPhone 15 Pros will start at $1,849. The iPhone 15 Pro Max with 256 GB storage is listed on the site $2,199 mark but if you opt for more storage then the 1 TB version will sting you $2,899.
The Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $649, with the Apple Watch SE priced at $399.
These new Apple products are set to be available from September 22nd.
