Apple launched the iPhone 15 in India in September 2023 at Rs 79,900 for 128 GB, and for the first time some units sold on launch day were assembled in India. Its biggest changes came from the previous year's Pro models: the Dynamic Island replaced the notch and the A16 Bionic chip took over from the A15.
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED gets much higher peak brightness but still runs at 60Hz. A colour-infused frosted glass back and contoured aluminium edges make it more comfortable than the iPhone 14. Apple switched from Lightning to USB-C, which pleased Indian buyers who already used USB-C for Android phones and laptops, though transfer speed stays at USB 2.
The 48 MP main camera produces 24 MP photos by default and offers a 2x crop that works as a near-optical telephoto, along with a 12 MP ultrawide. Portraits can be captured automatically when a face is detected. Battery life is a full day, and charging remains slow. It competed with the Galaxy S23 and Pixel 8, matching them on video quality but trailing on refresh rate.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 79,900 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | September 2023 |
| Segment | Flagship |
| Display | 6.1-inch, Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz, 1179 x 2556 |
| Processor | Apple A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 6 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 48 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 12 MP with autofocus |
| Battery | 3349 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, wireless |
| Software at launch | iOS 17 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Weight | 171 g |
| Colours | Black, Blue, Green, Yellow, Pink |
What we like
- Dynamic Island on a non-Pro iPhone
- USB-C port
- 48 MP main camera with 2x crop
- Comfortable frosted design
What could be better
- Still 60Hz
- USB-C limited to USB 2 speeds
- Slow charging
Who should buy it
Buyers upgrading from older iPhones who want the modern design and better camera at the standard price.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (September 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.