The upcoming iPhone 15 Pro is set to launch later this year, and according to a CAD model provided to 9to5Mac by a reliable case manufacturer and 3D Artist Ian Zelbo, it will feature some significant changes to the design and features of Apple’s flagship smartphone.
In order to ensure that cases are available when the device launches, CAD files like the ones these renders are based on are given by Apple to factories in Asia for preparation.
iPhone 15 Pro: Curved design with thinner bezels, USB-C port and more
Design Change
The iPhone 15 Pro features an important design change – the edges of the glass and metal frame have been curved to create a more seamless transition. This design is similar to the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros and new M2 MacBook Air, and could make the phone more comfortable to hold and less prone to accidental touches.
A Closer Look at the Phone’s Side
The side of the phone has seen some changes, with volume rockers looking like capacitive buttons instead of physical ones, which has been rumored. The mute switch has also been redesigned, taking on a smaller and rounder shape similar to the capacitive buttons.
Camera Bump
The camera bump on the back of the iPhone 15 Pro is thicker than before. This could indicate that Apple has upgraded the camera system with new sensors or lenses. Furthermore, a square module with three lenses and a LiDAR scanner, similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. And, the images reveal that this generation of camera lenses are thicker, suggesting larger image sensors.
Switch from the Lightning Port to USB-C
The most notable change is the transition from the Lightning port to USB-C, which would be a significant departure from Apple’s proprietary connector that has been used on iPhones and most Apple accessories since 2012. There is even a live image of the port posted by leaker Unknownz21.
This may be restricted to cables authorized for Apple’s MFi program for data transfer and charging speeds. This could have been triggered by the European Union’s campaign for a common charging standard for all smartphones and devices.
Renders don’t reveal any resolution details for the iPhone 15 Pro, but it’s expected to have the same 6.1-inch display as the iPhone 14 Pro, in a slightly smaller body. The Dynamic Island looks to have a similar size too. But, as 9to5Mac report suggests, these renders are based on an early CAD model and may not reflect the final design.