Recent reports surrounding the battery health of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro have raised concerns among users. A new leak has further shed light on this issue, suggesting that the iPhone 15’s battery could be draining rapidly due to the use of cheaper materials.
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro batteries rumored to offer only 600 charge cycles
As per the leak on X, the iPhone 15 series features batteries with only about 600 charge cycles. To put this in perspective, some high-end Chinese brands, particularly those under the BBK Group, offer smartphones with batteries that can endure up to 800 charge cycles. OnePlus, in particular, is known for incorporating advanced self-healing cells with an impressive 1,600 charge cycles.
Did you know why iPhone 14 & 15 series battery degrade faster?
Because it's using cheaper cells, similar to this 3rd party parthttps://t.co/hzzgrRtD48
with only 600± cycles as averageyes, it's a high density battery
original iP12 PM = 3687 MaH
3rd party iP12 PM = 4350 MaH… pic.twitter.com/igORfqkD51— RGcloudS (@RGcloudS) October 3, 2023
The implication is that Apple might be opting for cheaper batteries in its latest iPhone models to reduce manufacturing costs and maintain pricing. It’s important to note that the iPhone 15 Pro Max is priced $100 higher than its predecessor, but it also comes with double the base storage and numerous upgrades. This leads to questions about whether the cost-cutting measures are affecting the entire lineup or only specific models.
Why is Apple opting for cheaper batteries?
While the rumors about Apple using cheaper batteries may be concerning, there are several factors to take into account. First of all, Apple has established a well-regarded supply chain and a robust retail network, allowing it to offer battery replacement services at a reasonable cost. No other company has managed to provide the same level of reliable service for battery replacements, especially when compared to the risky process of third-party battery replacements.
Additionally, setting up an extensive retail network for battery replacements is a costly endeavor. In times of global economic uncertainty, Apple may need to make challenging choices to maximize profits while keeping product prices stable. As a result, cost-cutting in certain areas, like battery components, could be one strategy employed by the tech giant.
Battery cycle count
In related news, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models offer a convenient method for users to monitor their device’s battery cycle count, alleviating the need for unofficial or complex methods previously required. This user-friendly feature is easily accessible in Settings > General > About, offering not only the cycle count but also battery production and first-use dates.
A battery cycle signifies depleting 100% battery capacity, even over multiple charges and affects lithium-ion battery longevity. Apple advises that under standard conditions, a battery should retain around 80% capacity after 500 full cycles. This empowers users to make informed decisions about battery replacement.
