The highly anticipated iPhone 15 line is set to be announced by Apple in three weeks, with shipments expected to begin just four weeks later. However, there may be some delays for the highest-end model of the iPhone 15 due to issues with the image sensor. According to a note from a major equity analyst, Sony, the camera parts supplier, will not be able to provide the necessary image sensor for the iPhone 15 Pro Max in time for it to ship alongside the other models.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is expected to feature the biggest camera upgrade among the new models, including a periscope lens system that will offer greater optical zoom than the current 3x limit. Unfortunately, this upgrade will not be available for the smaller iPhone 15 Pro. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will feature ultra-wide and wide cameras but will lack the telephoto cameras.
Apple is projected to announce the new iPhones, along with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, on September 12. Pre-orders are likely to start on September 15, with deliveries expected to begin on September 22. However, the potential delay mentioned in the analyst note could push the iPhone 15 Pro Max deliveries to between October 6 and October 13.
It is not uncommon for Apple to ship certain iPhone models later than others in previous years. For instance, the iPhone XR shipped after the iPhone XS, and the iPhone 14 Plus arrived after the iPhone 14. Similarly, the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max were delayed compared to the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro.
Earlier predictions, including an analyst note from Bank of America, suggested that iPhone 15 shipments may slip to October this year. Additionally, there were brief rumors of production issues with the iPhone 15 Pro display during the summer.
The iPhone 15 line is also anticipated to replace the Lightning charging port with USB-C, similar to the new iPads. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will adopt the Dynamic Island design introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Furthermore, titanium is expected to replace stainless steel on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Additionally, the Pro models will feature a programmable button, similar to the Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra, in place of the standard mute switch.
It remains to be seen how these delays, if they occur, will impact the overall availability of the iPhone 15 line. Apple enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the announcement and release of these new devices.