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Why iPhone 15 will actually be cheap

Why iPhone 15 will actually be cheap

This year’s model likely will be the most affordable since 2007.

Leander Kahney
September 11, 2023

Apple is defying gravity with the iPhone. As the device matures, it’s actually gaining market share on its lower-cost Android rivals — which is not the way things should be.

That’s likely to continue with the iPhone 15, which is being unveiled tomorrow at Apple’s “Wonderlust” event.

The new handsets may even see a price increase.

But as unlikely as it sounds, the iPhone 15 lineup likely will be the cheapest iPhones that Apple has launched since 2007. Here’s why.

Also in today’s newsletter:

The new iPhones will come with USB-C connectors for the first time, but what’s the difference between the new port and Thunderbolt?
If you’ve got a MacBook, you’ll want Energiza Pro, the battery-management software that Apple should ship with every laptop it makes.
Check out the amusing Wonderlust bingo cards that are circulating ahead of tomorrow’s big event.
This 4K dashcam that doubles as a backup cam looks very cool. And so does this easy, inexpensive way to add wireless CarPlay to your car.

— Leander Kahney, EIC.

Why iPhone 15 will be Apple's cheapest since 2007

Those ordering an iPhone 15 will pay less for it than for any Apple flagship handset since the original ... once inflation is factored in.

Get ready to play Wonderlust event bingo

Ahead of Tuesday's big Apple event, we found a few options for you to play along while Cupertino's announcements unfold.

iPhones will use Qualcomm’s 5G modem through 2026

Apple renews its agreement to use Qualcomm 5G modems for three more years. The current deal would have expired at the end of 2023.

^{A message from Appgineers}

Extend your MacBook's battery for years of use with Energiza Pro

How can you best save your MacBook battery life? Energiza Pro puts you in full control of your battery, so it will last you for years to come.

Save 15% on a 15-inch MacBook Air refurb straight from Apple

The laptop just launched in June, but shoppers already can pick up a refurbished unit from Apple itself at a discount.

What's the difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt?

With iPhone 15 models going to USB-C -- and maybe Thunderbolt on at least one -- people need to know the ins and outs of the connectors.

What to expect at the Apple 'Wonderlust’ event on September 12

The company will reveal at least six new products and possibly more tomorrow. Here's what's coming.

How to watch Apple's 'Wonderlust' iPhone event

Here are the best ways to watch the big show, depending on the platform you want to use.

^{A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team}

Get a 4K dashcam that doubles as a backup cam

This 4K touchscreen dashcam has everything a safe driver needs. The 10-inch IPS touchscreen attaches easily to your rearview mirror.

Add wireless CarPlay to almost any car for just $105

Add CarPlay to your car with this 9-inch car display while it's on sale for just $104.99 (reg. $289). It's compatible with Android Auto, too.

5 best iMessage, FaceTime and phone features in iOS 17

If you’re trying to call someone and have a missed connection, you have many more options for leaving them a message to pick up later. Plus, changes to iMessage bring small but impactful improvements to stickers, threaded replies and sharing your ETA.

Today in Apple history: Steve Ballmer freaks out and stomps an iPhone

On September 11, 2009, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer snatched a Microsoft worker's iPhone during a big meeting and pretended to destroy it.

Apple 'Wonderlust' event predictions and last-minute leaks! [The CultCast]

This week on Cult of Mac's podcast: We're putting or million-dollar reputations on the line with predictions for Apple's "Wonderlust" event.

Mac Studio hides under Studio Display-laden desk [Setups]

In today's setup, a Mac Studio sits beneath a standing desk that shows off dual Studio Displays on 3D-printed stands.

Tweetz o’ the day

Dear Apple Watch: You’re not my mom. Sheesh, can I enjoy a concert once in a while?
— Karen Schiff Freeman (@KarenSFreeman)
3:42 AM • Sep 11, 2023

Goodnight twitter friends
— Clayton Cubitt (@claytoncubitt)
6:21 AM • Sep 10, 2023

Reason 972 I’m excited at the possibility of iPhones going USB-C soon: I can use these cute little charge rate cables 🥺
— Christian Selig (@ChristianSelig)
6:14 PM • Sep 8, 2023

One more thing ...

❝

Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty than when death was a useful but purely intellectual concept: No one wants to die.

— Steve Jobs, 2005.

Today’s poll

How excited are you about the Wonderlust event?

Results from last Friday’s poll: Did you already install the latest updates on your Apple devices?

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