Max Weinbach – 02/16/2023 12:19 p.m
We’ve received exclusive renders of the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro based on a CAD model provided to 9to5Mac by trusted case maker and 3D artist Respective Render Man Ian Zelbo. The renders show some significant changes to the design and features of Apple’s flagship smartphone, which is expected to launch later this year.
CAD files like the ones these renders are based on are shared by Apple with factories in Asia to prepare phone cases ahead of launch. This is to ensure cases are available when the device starts.
The specific CAD here is from a factory in China that appears to be the first to receive these files. Historically, CAD files are accurate to the final device both in terms of dimensions and design, as inaccurate files would be costly to case designers and factories.
The most noticeable change is the move from the Lightning connector to USB-C, which would mark a major departure from Apple’s proprietary connector, which has been used on iPhones and most Apple accessories since 2012.
That could be due to pressure from the European Union, which is pushing for a common charging standard for all smartphones and devices. Unfortunately, this may be limited to cables approved for Apple’s MFi program for data transfer speeds and charging speeds.
USB-C port on iPhone 15 Pro
Another change is the curvature of the edges, both on the glass and the metal frame. The glass curves slightly around the edges, creating a more seamless transition to the frame. The frame itself is also more curved than before, similar in design to the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros and the new M2 MacBook Air. This could make the phone more comfortable to hold and less prone to accidental touches.
The rear camera hump is also thicker than before, suggesting that Apple may have upgraded the camera system with new sensors or lenses. The camera layout remains similar to the iPhone 14 Pro, with three lenses and a LiDAR scanner arranged in a square module. The camera lenses are thicker in this generation, which probably indicates larger image sensors.
On the side of the phone we can see some changes to the volume rockers and mute button. The volume rockers look like capacitive buttons instead of physical ones, which has been rumoured. We can’t say for sure given the renders, but it seems very likely. The mute button also looks redesigned, with a smaller and more rounded shape, similar to that of the capacitive buttons.
iPhone 14 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro CAD
The renders don’t show details on the iPhone 15 Pro’s resolution, but we expect it to be similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. The device’s body is a few millimeters smaller and has a thinner bezel, so we’ll likely see the same 6.1-inch display in a slightly smaller body. The Dynamic Island is still there and appears to be about the same size as the iPhone 14 Pro.
These renderings are based on an early CAD model and may not reflect all aspects of Apple’s final design. However, they give us an idea of what to expect from one of the most anticipated smartphones of this year and all the important changes, such as a more comfortable frame and USB-C.
Photo credit: Basic Apple Guy
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