The iPhone 15, while still a relatively new entrant in the smartphone market, may soon find itself facing an unexpected decline in relevance. The reason behind this potential shift lies in the upcoming releases of the iPhone 16 and iPhone SE 4, both slated to bring significant advancements that could leave the iPhone 15 feeling outdated.

The Looming Obsolescence of the iPhone 15

The AI Disadvantage: A key factor contributing to the iPhone 15’s potential obsolescence is its lack of hardware compatibility with Apple Intelligence, the AI features that are poised to become a cornerstone of the iPhone experience. While the iPhone 15 will receive iOS 18 features, its inability to support these advanced AI capabilities could significantly impact its appeal.
The iPhone 16’s AI Advantage: In contrast, the upcoming iPhone 16 series is expected to incorporate AI features across all models, thanks to the new A18 chipset. This means that even the standard iPhone 16 models will offer AI functionalities, making them a compelling alternative to the iPhone 15, especially if they are priced competitively.
The iPhone SE 4’s Design and Feature Upgrades: The iPhone SE 4, rumored to launch next year, could pose another challenge to the iPhone 15. It’s anticipated to feature a design similar to the iPhone 14, along with upgrades like an improved OLED display, Dynamic Island, and potentially an Action Button. These enhancements could make the iPhone SE 4 a more attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who value modern design and features.
iPhone SE 4’s Performance and AI Potential: Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to be powered by the same cornerstone as the iPhone 16, potentially offering comparable performance. If it also supports Apple Intelligence, as some rumors suggest, it could further solidify its position as a strong contender in the market.
The Price Factor: If the iPhone SE 4 delivers all these advanced features at a lower price point than the iPhone 15, it could be a game-changer. Consumers may find it hard to justify paying a premium for the iPhone 15 when a more affordable option with comparable or even superior features is available.

The Bottom Line

The iPhone 15’s future is uncertain. The combined impact of the iPhone 16’s widespread AI integration, the iPhone SE 4’s appealing design and potential feature set, and the competitive pricing of both new models could significantly accelerate the iPhone 15’s journey towards obsolescence. As the smartphone landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the iPhone 15 may find it challenging to maintain its relevance in the face of such formidable competition.

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Sovan Mandal

Sovan, with a Journalism degree from the University of Calcutta and 10 years of experience, ensures high-quality tech content. His editorial precision has contributed to the publication's acclaimed standards and consistent media mentions for quality reporting. Sovan’s dedication and attention to detail have greatly contributed to the consistency and excellence of our content, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the best to our readers.