The iPhone 15 series already came out in September 2023, with models like the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max launching then, featuring USB-C, Dynamic Island, and improved cameras, but they are now discontinued by Apple as the iPhone 16 (and 17) lines are the current models, though you might still find refurbished or reseller stock.
Yes, the iPhone 15 series launched way back in September 2023, with the base models (iPhone 15, 15 Plus) and Pro models (15 Pro, 15 Pro Max) becoming available in stores on September 22, 2023, after being announced on September 12, 2023. The lineup brought significant changes like the switch to a USB-C port and camera upgrades, and it's a fully released and popular generation, even with the iPhone 16 series now out, notes www.backmarket.com.au.
Despite the immense success of the iPhone 17 in 2025, the iPhone 18 is not expected to arrive until the spring of 2027, leaving the iPhone 17 in the lineup as the latest standard model for over 18 months. ⬇️ Read more in the comments ⬇️
Yes, Apple has already released the iPhone 16 lineup, including the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max, announced in September 2024 as the successor to the iPhone 15 series, featuring larger displays, titanium designs, and the A18 chip for advanced Apple Intelligence. A more affordable model, the iPhone 16e, was also introduced, offering core features at a lower price point.
Yes, the iPhone 15 is widely considered a worthwhile purchase in late 2025/early 2026, especially if upgrading from older models (iPhone 11-14) due to its excellent value, significant camera upgrades (48MP sensor, better HDR/Night Mode), Dynamic Island, USB-C port, A16 Bionic performance, and comfortable design, though its 60Hz screen is a drawback compared to newer Pro models. Current iPhone 15 users generally don't need to upgrade unless wanting the Pro models' 120Hz display or newer AI features.
The iPhone has always been known for its snappy and responsive performance. However, the iPhone 15 has been criticised for its sluggishness. Users have reported lagging, slow app launches, and delayed responses, which are unexpected from a flagship device.
The best iPhone depends on your budget and needs: the iPhone 13 is the best value for everyday use, the iPhone 14 is a mid-tier choice with minor upgrades, while the iPhone 15 offers significant improvements like Dynamic Island, USB-C, better cameras, and more RAM, making it the smartest long-term purchase if you can afford it over the 13/14. Skip the 14 if you're choosing between the 13 and 15; the 15 is a much bigger leap.
Its improved display, tougher materials, fresh processor, new cameras, and significantly longer battery life are all worth considering. The fact that it comes with an additional 128GB of storage is reason alone to spend the extra $100. We recommend you buy the iPhone 17; it's the best iPhone for the money right now.
iPhone 6 & iPhone 6 Plus (2014)
Together, they sold over 220 million units and cemented Apple's place as the leader in mobile design. The demand was so high, Apple even re-released the iPhone 6 in 2017 at a mid-range price point.
No iOS 26 Support: The iPhone XR is capped at iOS 18, which reaches its end of support in 2025. This means it won't get the latest Apple features or crucial long-term security updates. App Compatibility Risks: As more apps update for iOS 26 and beyond, XR owners will face increasing compatibility issues.
That means the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold will be released in September 2026, followed by the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e in spring 2027.
The iPhone 15 can withstand a lot, but it isn't waterproof. While a single drop or dash of water probably won't damage your iPhone, you probably shouldn't take it for a swim. It's important to understand that being water-resistant isn't the same as being waterproof.
The iPhone 15 is generally better than the iPhone 14 due to its upgraded A16 Bionic chip, significantly improved 48MP main camera, modern Dynamic Island, brighter display, and convenient USB-C port, making it a more modern and capable phone for a slightly higher cost; however, the iPhone 14 is still a strong performer and a good value if you're on a tighter budget and don't need the latest features.
The iPhone 15 series brought major changes like the Dynamic Island across all models (replacing the notch), a shift to USB-C charging, significantly upgraded 48MP Main Cameras for better photos and a 2x optical-quality zoom, and new contoured edges with matte glass for a more comfortable feel, plus the Pro models introduced a customizable Action Button and titanium frames.
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Yes, the iPhone 17 is largely considered a worthwhile upgrade, especially from older models (iPhone 14 or earlier) due to significant improvements like a smoother display (ProMotion on base models), USB-C with faster data, longer battery life, and capable cameras, making the base model a much stronger value and often close to Pro features, though the Pro offers more serious performance. Whether it's worth it depends on your current phone: it's a big jump from an iPhone 13/14 but less necessary if you have a recent iPhone 16.
If your current phone is still performing well, holding out for the iPhone 16 and its additional features might make more sense. However, if your device is struggling with battery life, performance issues, or outdated features, the iPhone 15 will feel like a significant jump in improvement, regardless.
Investing $1,000 in Apple stock 20 years ago would have grown to well over $100,000, potentially reaching $200,000-$270,000 or more by late 2024/early 2025, depending on exact timing and dividend reinvestment, representing an incredible annualized return of around 27-31% and far outperforming the S&P 500. This growth reflects the massive success of products like the iPhone and the power of compounding over decades, turning a modest sum into life-changing wealth.
The best time to buy an iPhone depends on your goal: September (launch) for the newest tech with carrier deals, November (Black Friday) to December (holidays) for discounts on previous models (like the 16/17 series) during sales, and January to June for budget-friendly refurbished or older generations as prices drop further after the holidays, with peak deals around other holiday weekends like Memorial Day/Father's Day.
According to the "40-80 Rule", lithium-ion batteries, like the ones inside iPhones, work best when they are between 40% and 80% of their capacity. When they are too full or too low, they experience more wear and lose their ability to hold a charge over time.
Premium Flagships (For When Money Isn't the Issue)
In conclusion, the iPhone 16 leads the pack with significant advancements in performance, camera technology, and design. For those seeking the ultimate Apple experience, it's the clear winner.
Right now, the iPhone that offers the best value for money is the regular iPhone 17. It's got a Pro-rivaling screen, as well as the same main, ultra-wide, and selfie cameras, the same buttons, and the same starting storage capacity as Apple's top-end models. The base iPhone 16 is also a great-value pick.