When Apple launched the iPhone 15 lineup in September 2023, it marked one of the biggest year-over-year upgrades for the standard iPhone in recent memory. Now, two years later, the question for American buyers is simple: does it still hold up in 2025? The short answer — yes, for many users. But there are a few key considerations before you pull the trigger.
Key Features That Still Shine in 2025
- Dynamic Island
First introduced on the iPhone 14 Pro, the Dynamic Island came to the regular iPhone line with the 15. It replaces the notch with an interactive cutout that displays notifications, timers, music controls, and more. - USB-C Charging Port
A major quality-of-life improvement over Lightning, giving faster transfer speeds (especially on the Pro models) and universal cable compatibility. - 48 MP Main Camera
Delivers sharp, detailed shots and impressive low-light performance. Photographic Styles and improved HDR keep it competitive against most 2025 mid-tier smartphones. - A16 Bionic Chip
While not Apple’s newest processor, it’s still extremely fast for day-to-day use, gaming, and photography, with strong power efficiency.
What’s Missing Compared to Newer iPhones
- No Apple Intelligence (AI) Features
Apple’s newest AI-powered tools — like advanced Siri functions, text summarization, and on-device image generation — require the A17 Pro or newer. If those matter to you, you’ll need an iPhone 15 Pro or later. - Alert Slider Instead of Action Button
The newer Action Button on iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16/17 models can be customized for shortcuts like launching the camera, recording voice memos, or starting workouts. The iPhone 15 retains the classic silent/vibrate switch. - Older Display Tech
Still limited to 60 Hz refresh rate, which is fine for most people but noticeably less fluid than the ProMotion (120 Hz) screens on newer models.
Software Support in 2025 and Beyond
Apple typically supports iPhones for 6–7 years after release, so the iPhone 15 should comfortably receive iOS updates through at least 2030. That means it will remain secure, functional, and compatible with most apps for years to come.
Who Should Still Buy the iPhone 15 in 2025?
- Budget-Conscious Buyers – If you can find it at a discount, it’s a way to get modern Apple hardware without paying flagship prices.
- Casual Users – Perfect if you want a reliable iPhone for calls, texts, photos, streaming, and everyday apps.
- Upgraders From Older Models – Coming from an iPhone 11, 12, or older? The jump in speed, battery life, and camera quality will feel huge.
Who Should Skip It
- AI Enthusiasts – If you want Apple Intelligence features now, go for an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, or wait for the iPhone 17 lineup.
- Mobile Gamers – While the A16 is strong, the A17 Pro and newer chips offer better graphics performance for demanding titles.
- Display Purists – If you’re used to a 120 Hz screen, the 60 Hz refresh rate may feel like a downgrade.
iPhone Comparison Chart
Here’s a clear side-by-side comparison of the iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and the rumored iPhone 17—so you can easily see what each offers and which suits you the best.
iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16 vs. Rumored iPhone 17 (in 2025)
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 | Rumored iPhone 17 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chip & Performance | A16 Bionic – still snappy for everyday tasks and gaming | A18 chip (~30% faster CPU, 40% boost GPU), hardware ray tracing, Apple Intelligence support (beta) | A19 chip; base model gains performance boost, Pro may reach 12 GB RAM; faster AI and multitasking |
| RAM & AI Features | 6 GB RAM, no Apple Intelligence | 8 GB RAM, Apple Intelligence in beta, faster ML tasks | Rumored 8–12 GB RAM; full Apple Intelligence support likely |
| Display | 6.1″ OLED, 60 Hz refresh | Same size/resolution, 60 Hz, but tougher Ceramic Shield and dimmer low brightness | Rumored 6.3″ OLED, 120 Hz ProMotion, brighter M14 tech, smoother experience |
| Buttons & Controls | Alert (silent) switch only | Introduced Action Button + Camera Control button | Expected to include Action Button and Camera Control, plus other refined UI interactions |
| Camera Enhancements | 48 MP main, basic specs | Added macro photography, ultrawide autofocus, Spatial Audio recording | Rumored 24 MP front camera, 48 MP telephoto on Pro, dual front + rear video, 8K recording |
| Charging & Connectivity | USB-C, 15 W MagSafe | Same USB-C, plus 25 W MagSafe, Wi-Fi 7, Thread | Possibly up to 50 W MagSafe charging, Wi-Fi 7, Qi 2.2 support (25 W wireless) |
| Design & Build | Standard aluminum/glass body | Similar look, upgraded Ceramic Shield | Rumored all-aluminum builds, slimmer bezels, anti-reflective/matte display, new color options |
| Release & Support | Launched 2023; solid iOS support through ~2030 | Launched September 2024; latest software and Apple Intelligence | Rumored announcement September 9, 2025, availability ~September 19 |
What This Means for U.S. Buyers in 2025
- iPhone 15 remains an excellent value in 2025—modern features like Dynamic Island, USB-C, and the 48 MP camera deliver high-end performance at potentially reduced prices.
- iPhone 16 builds meaningfully on the 15—with faster processing, smarter AI, enhanced camera controls, and better connectivity. A great pick if these matter to you.
- iPhone 17 (Rumored) moves even further ahead: ProMotion, bigger RAM, advanced AI capabilities, top-tier cameras, and modern design updates. Worth waiting for if you’re a tech-forward user.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 15 is still a solid, long-lasting choice for most U.S. users in 2025—especially if you’re budget-conscious or upgrading from much older models. It blends modern conveniences like Dynamic Island, USB-C, and a powerful camera with the longevity of Apple’s update policy. If you don’t need the bleeding-edge AI tools or Pro-grade performance, this model can save you hundreds while still delivering a premium iPhone experience.
If cutting-edge features like AI, fast wireless charging, and camera versatility matter to you, the iPhone 16 offers strong value.
For those eager to future-proof with the most advanced tech Apple will offer in late 2025, the iPhone 17 looks like the most thrilling leap—if you can wait a bit longer.
