iPhone 15 Pro is Apple’s lowest-rated Pro model ever — and we’ve got a hunch why (2024)

FAQs

IPhone 15 Pro is Apple’s lowest-rated Pro model ever — and we’ve got a hunch why? ›

The new phone has been plagued with overheating issues, though an iOS update should have fixed the problem. Other users have reported experiencing an issue where their home screen is burned-in on the iPhone's OLED display. These are major problems for a brand new, quite expensive phone.

I recently upgraded from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 15 Pro. Since the upgrade, I have experienced significant overheating issues with my new device while playing IF. The overheating is severe enough to prevent the phone from charging, making long-haul flights impractical.

The processing of images taken with the front facing camera on the 15 (and I think 14 before) is so over processed that I'm aware of people jumping to other phones. And they're right. The 15 exacerbates that even more.

The latest iPhone 15 and Pro Max have been described as “Apple's biggest flop in history” after issues including overheating, dust in the components, metal changing colour and the phone failing the bend test were discovered. A number of users have said the phones are unbearably hot after just a few minutes of use.

According to Notebookcheck, Apple considers iPhone 15 Pro models running warmer than previous iPhones to be “expected behavior.” A major design change is coming to the iPhone 16 series to (finally) address this issue. Apple is rumored to be exploring the “use of graphene to mitigate lingering thermal issues.”

iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max battery tests

In my experience, the 15 Pro averages a full day on a single charge, while the 15 Pro Max gets between a day and a half to two days. Battery life can vary depending on how you use your phone, so I also ran two additional CNET battery tests.

The major difference between the iPhone 14 vs iPhone 15 lies in the iPhone 15's enhanced A16 Bionic chip, improved battery life, and better camera capabilities with sensor improvements, offering a more powerful and versatile device overall.

Which iPhone is the best value for money? Right now, the iPhone that offers the best value for money is the iPhone 15, although the iPhone 13 Pro remains a strong choice if you're keen on the benefits of a Pro-level iPhone but don't want to spend big on a model with the Dynamic Island.

Currently, our pick for the best iPhone of 2024 overall is the iPhone 15 Pro Max, thanks to its vivid-looking display, 5x zoom camera, and Action button for easier app access. Should you prefer a smaller, easy-to-handle form factor, consider the iPhone 15 Pro.

Are people liking the iPhone 15? ›

All four models, which use USB-C instead of the familiar Lightning port, are now among the top-rated smartphones in our ratings, with the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max earning the highest-ever score for a smartphone. Simply put, these are Apple's best iPhones yet. (Check out CR's iPhone reviews.)

That's more true than ever right now, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max having a 23% share of iPhone sales in the US in March 2024, according Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP). Their report – spotted by Apple Insider – puts the iPhone 15 Pro in the number two spot, with a 22% share.

As part of our efforts to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not include a power adapter or EarPods. Included in the box is a USB‑C Charge Cable that supports fast charging and is compatible with USB‑C power adapters and computer ports.

iPhone 15 models are water resistant in that they can handle minor water exposure. Although they aren't made to withstand submersion for longer than 30 minutes or depths greater than six meters, their IP68 rating ensures they are dust, water and splash resistant.

Battery may drain more quickly than expected after updating to iOS 15.4. Braille devices may become unresponsive while navigating text or displaying an alert. Made for iPhone hearing devices may lose connection within some third-party apps.

The bottom line: It's worth upgrading to the iPhone 15 if you have an iPhone 12. The updates go beyond new technologies like the Dynamic Island and USB-C; you also get a notable upgrade in everything from general performance to battery life and camera quality.

Yes, especially if yours feels sluggish or doesn't hold a charged like it used to. If you're using an iPhone that was introduced in 2019 or earlier and you're finding it slow or think the battery is draining too fast, then upgrading to an iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro is a smart idea.