Apple Event Leaker Teases Unexpected Appearance of iPhone 15; Expresses Doubt

By Maggie On Sep 3, 2023

Since the dawn of 2020, Apple has been relentless in its pursuit of innovation within its iPhone lineup, consistently unveiling four distinct models with each new generation. The range typically featured two standard models and two top-of-the-line Pro models. This pattern appeared to be firmly in place, with the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini evolving into the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus by 2022.

However, the balance of the tech world has been shaken by an exciting rumor that surfaced recently. A prominent leaker, nicknamed Majin Bu on X (formerly known as Twitter), fueled speculation by suggesting that the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Ultra may be separate entities.

But he outraged tech enthusiasts with a statement: “Based on the information I managed to get, we could see changes in the lineup of the new iPhone 15.” He further speculated that this hypothetical Ultra model would boast an additional 2GB of RAM, “much-improved camera features” and an impressive storage capacity of up to 2TB. All of this could come at a $100 premium over the starting price of the Pro Max.

As proof of credibility, Bu pointed out that case makers seem to offer options for both the Pro Max and Ultra models. Before the echo of this announcement could even be heard, Bu began to retreat. “Personally, I know for sure that two different 6.7-inch models have been tested, but I don’t think both will actually be released,” he admitted, casting a shadow of doubt.

And just as the intrigue reached its peak, respected Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman stepped in to douse the flames of speculation. The author tweeted: “There is only one new high-end 6.7-inch iPhone. No Pro Max and Ultra this year. Maybe next year, as I wrote in February.”

It seems unlikely that Apple will introduce an ultra-premium model to its already extensive iPhone lineup. It’s more likely that the case makers are playing it safe and making cases labeled “Pro Max” and “Ultra” rather than having insider information on the new model.

However, the question of what Apple will eventually name its flagship 6.7-inch iPhone 15 still remains unanswered. The “Pro Max” label has undoubtedly been used since the iPhone 11 Pro Max in 2019, but it’s always been a bit of a mouthful for the product name.

The concept of an iPhone 15 Ultra replacing the Pro Max has been circulating for almost a year. If this model is indeed the only device with a periscopic camera lens, as expected, adopting the new branding would effectively differentiate it from the iPhone 15 Pro. In addition, Apple has already adopted the “Ultra” nomenclature in its range, for example for the M series chips and the high-end Apple Watch Ultra.

All in all, it wouldn’t be too much of a stretch for Apple to introduce the iPhone 15 Ultra in just nine days. But don’t hold your breath for it to co-exist with the iPhone 15 Pro Max; that seems to be a story for next year, if ever.