iPhone 15 Series in Kenya: USB-C, Cameras and Which Model to Pick

The iPhone 15 range brought the biggest practical change to the iPhone in years: USB-C. It also moved the standard models closer to the Pro line, which makes this generation unusually strong value now that newer iPhones have arrived.

The change everyone notices: USB-C

Every iPhone 15 charges through USB-C. If you already own a USB-C laptop, Android tablet or modern earbuds, one cable can now handle most of your devices. It also means the iPhone can charge earbuds and other small accessories from its own port.

There is a catch. The standard 15 and 15 Plus transfer data at slower USB 2 speeds. The Pro models support much faster USB 3 transfers, which matters if you shoot lots of video and copy it to a computer. Charging speed is similar across the range.

iPhone 15 and 15 Plus

These models gained two features once limited to the Pro phones: the Dynamic Island and a 48MP main camera. They use the A16 Bionic. The 6.1-inch iPhone 15 and 6.7-inch 15 Plus are excellent everyday phones, and the Plus has particularly strong battery life. The screens remain 60Hz, so scrolling is less fluid than on Pro models.

iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max

The Pro models use the A17 Pro chip and have a lighter titanium frame. They replace the old mute switch with a programmable Action button. The 15 Pro has a 3x telephoto, while the 15 Pro Max has a 5x telephoto.

These are also the only iPhone 15 models that support Apple Intelligence, thanks to their additional memory. If those features matter to you, this is a key point. Availability of Apple's AI features can vary by language and region, so do not treat them as a guaranteed reason to buy.

Pick by how you use the phone

• Choose the iPhone 15 for a balanced, sensible purchase.
• Choose the iPhone 15 Plus for maximum battery life without Pro pricing.
• Choose the iPhone 15 Pro for a smooth 120Hz screen and strong video tools in a manageable size.
• Choose the iPhone 15 Pro Max for 5x zoom and the biggest display.

Our Pro versus standard guide goes deeper into whether the extra cost is justified for ordinary users.

Accessories to budget for

Apple does not include a charging brick. A good USB-C GaN charger brings the phone to full charge much faster than an old adapter, and it can also power other devices. MagSafe works with magnetic power banks. See the power bank guide for choices that suit a USB-C iPhone.

SIM and condition checks

As with the iPhone 14, models sold in the United States use eSIM only, while models sold in the UK include a physical SIM tray. Check this before buying. Use the Ex-UK checklist for anything pre-owned, and look at the warranty stated on the listing.

Wait for newer models?

The iPhone 15 remains a strong choice even with newer models on sale. If you want to weigh it against the very latest, read whether to buy the newest iPhone.