Unfortunately, there is no iPhone 15 Mini model. Apple discontinued its Mini iPhone line after the iPhone 13 Mini, and the company has confirmed that no Mini devices are planned for the future. As a result, there’s no iPhone 15 Mini, meaning Apple’s compact phones are gone for good.
Now, let’s dive into the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, Apple’s latest base models that have replaced the Mini lineup.
Design and Feel: Lighter, Smoother, and Colorful
The iPhone 15 looks familiar but has smart upgrades:
- Frosted glass back (no more fingerprints!)
- Softer edges where the frame meets the glass
- New pastel colors (blue, pink, green, yellow, black) – though the blue is very light
- USB-C port replaces Lightning (same cable as most Android devices)
Pro Tip: Your iPhone 14 case might still fit the iPhone 15!
Display: Dynamic Island + Brighter Screen
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Cutout | Dynamic Island | Notch |
| Max Brightness | 2,000 nits (outdoor boost) | 800 nits |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Size Options | 6.1" (15) / 6.7" (15 Plus) | 6.1" / 6.7" |
Key takeaways:
- Dynamic Island shows live updates (timers, flights, sports scores)
- Screen is 2x brighter in sunlight vs. iPhone 14
- Still no high refresh rate (stays at 60Hz, while Pro models have 120Hz)
Performance: Older Chip, Still Blazing Fast
The iPhone 15 uses last year’s A16 Bionic chip (from iPhone 14 Pro). Here’s what that means:
- Handles games, apps, and multitasking smoothly
- 6GB RAM (better for switching between apps)
- Not for hardcore gamers – the A17 Pro chip in iPhone 15 Pro is better for console-level games
Real-world difference:
- 20-30% faster than iPhone 13 mini
- Barely slower than iPhone 15 Pro in everyday use
Camera: Huge Jump in Quality
Major upgrades:
-
48MP Main Sensor:
- Shoots 24MP photos by default (sharper than old 12MP shots)
- 2x "zoom" mode (cropped from 48MP – works surprisingly well)
-
Auto Portrait Mode:
- Captures depth data automatically when pointing at people/pets
- Add portrait blur after taking the photo
- 4K video on all cameras
Weak spot:
The 12MP ultra-wide camera still struggles in low light.
Tip: Use Voice Isolation during calls to block background noise (Learn iOS 17 audio tricks).
Battery Life: All-Day Power
- iPhone 15: Lasts a full day (22-25% left by bedtime)
- iPhone 15 Plus: Best battery ever in an iPhone (35% left after heavy use)
Charging:
- 30 mins = 58% charge (with 20W+ USB-C charger)
- Full charge in 1 hour 50 mins
USB-C: Finally Here!
Good:
- One cable for iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Android devices
- Works with accessories (monitors, keyboards)
Limitations:
- Slow USB 2.0 speeds (Pro models get faster USB 3)
- Color-matched port interiors (a very Apple touch!)
Need to move data? Use our guides:
iOS 17 Features You’ll Actually Use
- StandBy Mode: Turns your charging iPhone into a smart display (clock, photos, widgets)
- Interactive Widgets: Control music or check tasks right from your Home Screen
- Offline Maps: Download areas for navigation without service
- Check In: Automatically alerts friends when you arrive home
Customize your setup:
Who Should Upgrade?
Get the iPhone 15 if you have:
- iPhone 12 or older
- iPhone 13/14 and want USB-C/better cameras
Skip if you have:
- iPhone 14 (wait for iPhone 17)
- iPhone 13 mini (unless you want a bigger screen)
Price:
- Starts at $799 (same as iPhone 14 launch price)
iPhone 15: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there an iPhone 15 mini?
No. Apple discontinued the mini line after the iPhone 13 mini. The iPhone 14 and 15 series only come in 6.1" (standard) and 6.7" (Plus) sizes.
2. Does the iPhone 15 have a better camera than the iPhone 14?
Yes! The 48MP main sensor captures 24MP photos by default, adding way more detail. It also has Auto Portrait Mode (add blur after taking photos) and 2x zoom—features the iPhone 14 lacks.
3. Is USB-C on the iPhone 15 the same as Android?
Mostly. It uses standard USB-C for charging and accessories. But it’s USB 2.0 speed (slow for large files), unlike the faster USB 3 on iPhone 15 Pro models.
4. Should I upgrade from an iPhone 13 or older?
Likely yes if you want:
- USB-C (one cable for all devices)
- Much brighter screen + Dynamic Island
- Significantly better cameras
- Longer battery life
If you have an iPhone 14, wait for the iPhone 16.
5. Why is the screen still 60Hz?
Apple reserves 120Hz "ProMotion" displays for Pro models. While the 60Hz screen works fine, it feels less smooth than most Android phones at this price.
Conclusion
The iPhone 15 is Apple’s most polished "regular" iPhone yet. You get USB-C(finally!), a brighter Dynamic Island display, a massive camera upgrade, and all-day battery life. While the 60Hz screen and slow USB speeds hold it back, it’s a smart upgrade for iPhone 12 or older users.
Just remember:
➜ No mini model exists—bigger screens only.
➜ USB-C is convenient but slow for file transfers.
➜ Auto Portrait Mode is the camera’s best new trick.
Use our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide to maximize your new iPhone!