(US) – As the tech world eagerly anticipates Apple’s annual September event, attention is focused on the upcoming iPhone 15, the 16th generation of a device that revolutionized the smartphone industry when it first debuted in 2007.
While smartphone sales globally are slowing, and Apple’s virtual reality headset is on the horizon, set to be released next year with a hefty price tag of $3,500 (£2,780), the iPhone continues to be a topic of immense interest.
Despite the absence of official previews from Apple, there are already nearly five billion Google search results for the term “iPhone 15.”
Speculation and “leaks” surrounding the iPhone 15 suggest it will be slightly lighter than its predecessors, featuring an improved chip, enhanced battery life, better camera, and a titanium chassis.
Slowing global sales and longevity of iPhones
However, the incremental nature of improvements in Apple’s iPhone generations has been attributed to slowing global sales.
Consumers are holding onto their devices longer due to cost considerations, environmental concerns, and the absence of compelling reasons to upgrade.
Ben Wood, a smartphone expert at CCS Insight, acknowledges this trend and notes that Apple has reached a point where maintaining its enormous iPhone user base is a significant achievement.
While the iPhone 15 is unlikely to bring radical changes, Apple continues to excel in creating anticipation and excitement around its products.
One notable physical change in the iPhone 15 is the adoption of a USB-C charging cable point, a departure from the proprietary lightning cable used in previous models.
This move aligns with the European Union’s mandate for all portable devices to be compatible with a universal charger by December 2024.
While Apple has promoted wireless charging, it is adapting to the EU’s requirement, even though other consumer tech sectors are unlikely to switch to the lightning cable.
The shift to USB-C is expected to facilitate compatibility with a wider range of devices and accessories. Second-hand iPhones, particularly in Africa, are in high demand, as they provide an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem.
In recent weeks, the iPhone faced challenges both in Europe and China. The EU’s requirement for a universal charger prompted Apple’s adoption of USB-C, while in China, state-run buildings reportedly banned iPhones on security grounds, affecting Apple’s share price.
Despite these challenges, Apple’s global significance and influence remain strong, with the iPhone continuing to captivate consumers worldwide.
