Apple is gearing up to launch its latest flagship smartphone, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which is expected to feature a periscope lens and a titanium frame. According to reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 15 Pro Max will start mass shipments this week, despite some reports of supply chain issues and delays.
Periscope lens to boost optical zoom range
One of the main attractions of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the periscope lens, which will significantly increase the camera’s optical zoom range. This feature has long been requested by some iPhone users, especially professional photographers, since other smartphones such as Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra already have this technology.
A periscope lens uses a prism to reflect light into a telephoto lens that is placed horizontally inside the phone, allowing for a longer focal length without increasing the thickness of the device. This enables the camera to capture more details and clarity from far away objects.
Kuo predicts that the periscope lens will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max model, and that it will make it the best-selling model among the iPhone 15 lineup. He also expects that Apple will improve the periscope lens in future models, such as the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17.
Titanium frame to enhance durability and design
Another notable feature of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the titanium frame, which will replace the stainless steel frame used in previous models. Titanium is a strong and lightweight metal that is resistant to corrosion and scratches. It also has a matte finish that gives the phone a sleek and premium look.
Kuo reports that Apple will use a new coating process to prevent the titanium frame from leaving fingerprints or smudges. He also says that Apple will no longer offer a gold color option for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models, but instead will introduce a new “Titan Gray” color that will match the titanium frame. The special edition Deep Purple color will be replaced by a new dark blue option.
Strong demand and shipments despite supply chain challenges
Despite some rumors of production problems and delays, Kuo maintains that the iPhone 15 Pro Max will start mass shipments this week, and that Apple will also increase shipments of legacy models simultaneously. He estimates that Apple will ship 80 million units of the iPhone 15 series in 2023, which is higher than some other analysts’ predictions.
Kuo also forecasts that Apple will surpass Samsung as the largest smartphone brand in 2023 and 2024, with 220-225 million units shipped in 2023 and 250 million units shipped in 2024. He attributes this to Apple’s loyal customer base, innovative features, and strong ecosystem.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 15 series on September 12, along with other products such as the Apple Watch Series 8 and the AirPods 3. The event will likely be streamed online due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
