Apple Discontinues iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus After iPhone 17 Launch
Apple Discontinues iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus following today’s iPhone 17 announcement, marking the end of the two-year-old models. The move aligns with Apple’s strategy of simplifying its product lineup and shifting focus to the latest devices.
Why Apple Discontinued the iPhone 15 Models
Apple routinely retires older-generation iPhones to streamline its portfolio and push adoption of newer technology. With the iPhone 17 series now available, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have been officially pulled from Apple’s online store and retail shelves.
A Look Back at the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
The iPhone 15 series debuted on September 12, 2023, at Apple’s “Wonderlust” event and went on sale later that month. These models were notable for bringing the Dynamic Island feature—once exclusive to Pro models—to the standard iPhone line.
They also introduced the A16 Bionic chip, a 48MP main camera with a 2x telephoto option via sensor cropping, and the long-awaited switch from Lightning to USB-C. Both devices featured Super Retina XDR OLED displays (6.1-inch and 6.7-inch), with peak outdoor brightness up to 2,000 nits, improved battery life, and a sleek matte-finish aluminum-and-glass design.
Pricing History Before Discontinuation
Ahead of their retirement, Apple reduced the prices of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus on September 9, 2024, following the iPhone 16 launch. The standard iPhone 15 dropped from $799 to $699, while the iPhone 15 Plus fell from $899 to $799 in the U.S. market.
What This Means for Customers
With Apple discontinuing the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, these models may still be available through third-party retailers and carriers at discounted prices. However, Apple’s decision signals a push toward the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 lineups, leaving customers with fewer official purchase options for older devices.
