Apple iPhone 15 Pro Review: A Modern Interpretation of a Classic
image courtesy : Indian express
Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to delve into “The Godfather,” a cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on culture even half a century since its debut. This film, spawning sequels and spin-offs, continues to wield influence in the industry. Yet, what truly captivates audiences is its intricate character depth and complexity. Similarly, my experience with the new iPhone 15 Pro echoed this sentiment, as each feature possessed a distinctive character integral to the overall user experience.
The iPhone 15 Pro, positioned as a pinnacle device, seeks to showcase the prowess and impact of modern technology. While familiarity with the iPhone, understanding its camera capabilities, and navigating the Apple ecosystem are given, it’s the emotional resonance with what the iPhone represents that sets it apart. Thus, the iPhone narrative remains timeless, and the iPhone 15 Pro emerges as a reinterpretation of a contemporary classic.
Having used the iPhone 15 Pro as my daily driver for a few days, a devoted iPhone user unfamiliar with the Pro models, I was intrigued by its offerings. My previous iPhone was the 14, still functioning well, but the allure of the Pro model led me to make the switch.
Here’s my comprehensive review of the iPhone 15 Pro:
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Price in India (as reviewed): Rs 184,900
‘Titanium’ Lightens the Load: Transitioning from the iPhone 14, the iPhone 15 Pro felt simultaneously familiar and distinct. As someone not fond of oversized smartphones, opting for the 15 Pro over the 15 Pro Max felt natural. Although the dimensions are identical to the iPhone 14, the feel in hand is notably different. The shift from stainless steel to titanium frames contributes to a lighter and, Apple claims, a stronger iPhone. Opting for the Natural Titanium variant might result in slightly dulled sides, but the rawness of the material appealed to me.
Design Continuity: The iPhone 15 Pro shares design elements with its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro. The elimination of sharp edges in favor of gently contoured ones enhances the phone’s ergonomics. Despite minimal design alterations for the third consecutive year, the iPhone 15 Pro maintains its premium feel.
Introducing the ‘Action Button’: A notable addition is the Action Button, replacing the traditional slider switch on the side. This button’s programmability for various tasks, such as camera operations or voice searches, adds versatility. Currently, my favorite function is launching ChatGPT with the Action Button, though customization options are abundant. Adapting to the Action Button may take time due to ingrained habits, but its potential for evolution remains to be seen.
USB-C Connectivity Advantage: A noteworthy shift is the replacement of the Lightning charging port with a universal USB-C standard on the iPhone 15 Pro, complying with EU regulations. This change not only facilitates faster charging but also opens up possibilities for accessories like SD card readers. As a frequent traveler, the convenience of carrying a single cable for multiple devices is a practical benefit.
Display Brilliance Continues: Retaining the 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display from the iPhone 14 Pro, the iPhone 15 Pro maintains its impressive visual capabilities. The ‘Always On’ display, vibrant colors, and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits remain unchanged. Cosmetic differences, such as the slightly reduced edges around the display, are subtle.
Dynamic Island: The addition of Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped area near the notch, offers interactive app-specific information. While initially captivating, its novelty diminishes over time. Exploring options for providing more valuable information without unlocking the device could enhance its utility.
3nm Silicon Powerhouse: The iPhone 15 Pro stands out with its A17 Pro chip, built on a 3nm architecture, a first in mobile technology. The enhanced processing capabilities cater to content creators and gamers seeking superior performance. While day-to-day tasks might not showcase the chip’s full potential, heavy video editing and resource-intensive applications benefit noticeably.
Battery Life and Performance: Though the initial experience included overheating issues, subsequent updates have resolved this concern. While the battery life may not match the Pro Max, the iPhone 15 Pro’s performance is commendable. Day-long use appears realistic, but a more extended review period will provide a comprehensive assessment.
Camera Excellence: The camera system, shared with the Pro Max, impresses with its capabilities. The 24MP standard output from the main sensor offers flexibility, and the new 5x telephoto camera (Pro Max) adds versatility. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced features, though the real-world impact may vary based on individual usage patterns.
In conclusion, the iPhone 15 Pro upholds the legacy of its predecessors while introducing meaningful innovations. From design refinements to technical advancements, it remains a commendable addition to the iPhone lineup, catering to users who seek cutting-edge performance and a seamless ecosystem.
Disclaimer: The review is based on usage during the initial period, and observations may evolve with prolonged use.