What new features does the latest iPhone introduce that previous models lack?

What new features and significant upgrades does the latest iPhone model (e.g., iPhone 15 Pro Max or 15 Pro) introduce that are either entirely exclusive or substantially enhanced compared to its immediate predecessor (iPhone 14 Pro/Max) and earlier models like the iPhone 13 or iPhone 12 series? Specifically, focus on hardware innovations like camera capabilities (e.g., new sensors, lenses, or computational photography modes), performance differences (chipset advancements, GPU upgrades), design/material changes (e.g., titanium frame, textured back), display technology improvements (e.g., peak brightness, refresh rate), unique software features exclusive to the new model, battery life enhancements, and any connectivity or biometric security upgrades. Also, clarify if these features are reliant on the new hardware or could theoretically be replicated via software updates on older models, and highlight any truly “game-changing” functionalities that represent a generational leap.

The latest iPhone model (iPhone 15 series, released in 2023) introduces several significant new features not found in previous models, including the iPhone 14 series:

1. USB-C Port: All models adopt USB-C instead of Lightning, enabling universal compatibility with USB-C cables and accessories. Pro models support USB 3 speeds (up to 10 Gbps) for faster data transfers, while non-Pro models use USB 2 speeds.

2. Action Button (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Replaces the traditional mute switch with a customizable button that can be programmed to launch camera, shortcuts, or other functions via the new "Action Button" settings.

3. Titanium Design (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Features a lightweight, corrosion-resistant aerospace-grade titanium frame, offering improved durability, reduced weight, and a contoured grip compared to the stainless steel in previous Pro models.

4. A17 Pro Chip (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): The first 3nm chip in a smartphone with a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU (including hardware-accelerated ray tracing for gaming), and 16-core Neural Engine, enhancing performance and power efficiency.

5. Advanced Camera System:

   • 5x Telephoto (iPhone 15 Pro Max only): A new tetraprism-based 120mm lens with 5x optical zoom, surpassing the 3x zoom in prior models.
   • 48MP Main Camera (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Upgraded sensor with larger pixels and f/1.78 aperture, enabling improved low-light performance and better computational photography.
   • Enhanced Computational Photography: Photonic Engine processes images earlier, boosting mid-to-low-light quality. All models now support Portrait mode on the front camera.
   • Space Stills on Pro models: Capture high-resolution images in space-themed workflows.

6. Improved Durability:

   • Ceramic Shield: Enhanced front cover with 45% better drop performance.
   • Textured Glass Back (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Matte-glass rear panel, resistant to fingerprints and smudges.

7. Always-On Display (AOD): Standard on all iPhone 15 models, allowing a glanceable lock screen (previously exclusive to iPhone 14 Pro series).

8. Dynamic Island: Expanded to all models (iPhone 15/Plus/Pro/Pro Max), providing interactive real-time alerts, notifications, and activities.

9. Emergency SOS via Satellite: Available globally on all models, enabling connectivity in emergency situations without cellular or Wi-Fi (previously limited to select regions).

10. Haptic Engine Enhancements (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Taptic Engine delivers more nuanced haptic feedback for interactions like the Action Button and camera shutter.

11. Wi-Fi 6E (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max): Supports the 6GHz band for faster speeds, lower latency, and reduced congestion.

12. Battery Life: iPhone 15 Pro Max offers up to 29 hours of video playback (vs. 28 hours on iPhone 14 Pro Max), with optimizations for power efficiency.

13. USB Power Delivery (PD): Supports up to 27W wired fast charging (non-Pro models) or up to 35W (Pro models), enabling faster charging.

14. Gamification Features: Pro models introduce console-style gaming with Metal 3 API, support for high-fidelity games with ray tracing, and an updated Game Mode for consistent frame rates.