It’s already mid‑2025, and the smartphone world keeps moving fast. Foldables are trending, AI cameras keep improving, and even budget phones now look premium. In this crowded market, does Apple’s standard iPhone 15 still deserve your attention?
Surprisingly, yes. While everyone talks about the Pro and Pro Max, the iPhone 15 might actually be the smartest buy in the lineup this year — especially if you want flagship features without flagship pricing.
Let’s break down why.
Design & feel modern familiar and lighter
The iPhone 15 keeps Apple’s classic design language: flat edges, tough Ceramic Shield front, and an aluminium frame that feels lightweight but solid.
What makes it feel fresh:
- The Dynamic Island (previously only in Pro models) replaces the old notch.
- New soft pastel colors like pink, yellow, and green add personality.
- It’s noticeably lighter than the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max a difference you appreciate in daily use.
In hand, it still feels like a premium flagship, not a “budget” iPhone.
Display bright smooth but still 60Hz
Here’s where you get both a win and a compromise.
- 6.1‑inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel: sharp, bright, and beautiful colors.
- HDR content on Netflix and YouTube looks fantastic, with brightness up to ~2000 nits outdoors.
The catch? Still a 60Hz refresh rate, compared to 120Hz on the Pro models.
Most users won’t notice unless they’ve owned a Pro iPhone or a high‑refresh Android, but once you see 120Hz, it’s hard to go back.
Camera better than you think
The iPhone 15 keeps a dual camera system:
- 48MP main sensor (shared with last year’s iPhone 14 Pro)
- 12MP ultra‑wide
Thanks to Apple’s software magic (Photonic Engine), the camera impresses in daily life:
- Daytime shots are detailed, with balanced colors.
- Low‑light photos get more detail and less noise than the iPhone 14.
- Portrait mode now uses distance sensing for better edge detection.
- You can shoot at 24MP resolution, getting more detail without huge file sizes.
Video remains excellent: 4K60, smooth stabilization, great color science.
You miss out on features like ProRes and telephoto zoom but for most people, this camera setup is more than enough.
Performance A16 Bionic still flies
The iPhone 15 runs on the A16 Bionic chip (same as the iPhone 14 Pro). Even in 2025, it handles everything:
- Heavy games like Call of Duty Mobile or PUBG at high settings
- Photo editing, 4K video capture, and multitasking
- Smooth iOS 18 beta features and AI tools
While it’s not the latest A17 Pro, in real life you won’t feel slowdowns.
USB‑C finally universal charging
Apple finally replaced the old Lightning port:
- USB‑C means one charger for MacBook, iPad, and iPhone.
- Faster charging and data transfer compared to previous base models.
- You can even charge your AirPods or Apple Watch directly from the iPhone.
This small change adds big daily convenience especially for travelers.
Battery life steady and reliable
Battery life on the iPhone 15 is better than the iPhone 14:
- Easily lasts a full workday (6–6.5 hours screen‑on time).
- StandBy mode in iOS 17 turns it into a smart clock while charging.
- Wireless and MagSafe charging supported.
It won’t beat large Android phones with 5000mAh batteries, but most users finish the day comfortably.
iOS 17/18 & updates Apple advantage
The iPhone 15 launched with iOS 17 and is now compatible with iOS 18 (currently in beta).
New features:
- AI‑powered message replies & smart photo editing
- Interactive lock screen widgets
- StandBy mode (turns your phone into a desk display)
And unlike many Android phones, the iPhone 15 should keep getting updates until 2029 or beyond, protecting its resale value.
Price in 2025 still the sweet spot
In Pakistan (PTA‑approved):
- Around PKR 350,000–390,000 for 128GB
- Lower if you buy non‑PTA for Wi‑Fi use only or imported from UAE
Globally:
- US: around $699–749 (price has held steady)
- UAE: AED 3200–3400
Compared to the iPhone 15 Pro (PKR ~440,000) or Pro Max (PKR ~500,000+), the standard iPhone 15 feels like the best value flagship for most people.
Pros & cons summary
Pros:
✔ Gorgeous design and lightweight feel
✔ Dynamic Island makes it feel modern
✔ Excellent main camera & video quality
✔ USB‑C charging finally
✔ Reliable performance, long software support
Cons:
✘ Still 60Hz refresh rate
✘ No telephoto camera
✘ Battery life good, but not exceptional
Verdict Best value flagship in 2025
If you:
- Want a stylish, modern iPhone
- Care about camera and video quality
- Value lighter weight and simpler design
- Want to save PKR 80,000–120,000 over Pro models
Then yes — iPhone 15 is still the best value flagship iPhone in 2025.
If you really need Pro features like 120Hz, 5x zoom, or log video recording, pay extra for the 15 Pro or Pro Max. But for most users, the standard iPhone 15 hits the perfect balance.
