It’s been nearly 2 years since Apple refreshed their budget iPhone SE and analysts are predicting that the company will launch a completely refreshed 4th Gen iPhone SE in the year 2024. The budget iPhone SE hasn’t just been a hot favorite for people looking for affordable iPhones for themselves or their children (it makes a great first phone), it’s been incredibly beneficial for Apple too, as the company has used this opportunity to flex its recycling chops, using chassis elements, components, and hardware from previous iPhones to build new low-end models. Up until now, the iPhone SE has still rocked some of Apple’s older design elements, like the curved edges, thick bezels, and even the archaic TouchID fingerprint reader that disappeared entirely in 2018. Designer 4RMD believes, however, that the upcoming iPhone SE will finally see a design upgrade in the form of a flat-edge form factor, a camera notch with FaceID, an action button (instead of the mute slider), and who knows… maybe even MagSafe! Rumored for a 2024 reveal, the 4th Gen iPhone SE could also be Apple’s first ‘Carbon Neutral‘ smartphone.
Designer: 4RMD
According to 4RMD’s renders (and that gorgeous Apple-inspired trailer video above), the 2024 iPhone SE will finally merge seamlessly into Apple’s product offering by looking like a part of their cutting-edge phone lineup. This means a bigger, more responsive 6.1-inch OLED display (with a FaceID camera notch on the front) covered by Apple’s Ceramic Shield glass. The phone’s showcased in 3 classic colors – black, white, and Product RED.
The phone is also powered by Apple’s A16 Bionic Chip, which was debuted just months ago inside the iPhone 15 series. It seems like processor overkill given the budget-status of the phone, but then again, the A16 is great at hardware rendering, which would make the 2024 iPhone SE a stellar gaming phone and a perfect pick for parents looking to gift their kids a low-cost iPhone. The presence of the A16 chip would pretty much gut Apple’s iPhone 13 and 14 sales, though.
Given its budget status, it still comes with a single-shooter primary camera that’s been upgraded to 48MP. The ultrawide lens also shoots Macro, supports Night Mode, and is even capable of capturing Cinematic videos.
However, 4RMD’s concept iPhone SE does tend to shoot for optimism with a few specs and details that strike one as ambitious. For starters, he touts an Action Button, which I doubt Apple would carry over to the budget iPhone this quickly. There’s even a mention of transitioning to USB-C, which I don’t see Apple doing this year for their budget phones (Apple could just restrict sales in the EU regarding lightning port concerns, given that the SE range isn’t their money-maker).
What the video doesn’t highlight is any of Apple’s safety features like car crash detection, or even the presence of wireless charging and MagSafe. If the past is any indication, this phone won’t come with a charger in the box, so having wireless charging capabilities will still be a heaven-sent for most buyers. The 4th Gen iPhone SE is due to drop in 2024, although whether it launches with Apple’s refreshed iPads in March, or with the iPhone 16 in October is anybody’s guess.
If you have several devices that you want to charge at the same time, your desk can look like a tangle of wires and other charging paraphernalia. I am not the neatest person when it comes to my desk so that’s not such an uncommon or uncomfortable situation for me. But for those who are a bit concerned with how their work area will look, wireless charging is probably the best solution to avoid such clutter. If you have several devices though, you might also need several wireless charging pads, unless you get one that can charge multiple gadgets at once.
Designer: Courant
For Mac users, Courant is an accessory maker that they constantly look to (if they can afford premium devices though). The MAG:3 is their latest MagSafe wireless charging device and this time it looks like a minimalist valet tray for your iPhone, AirPods, and other small items that you can place there to make your side table or desk more organized. It is available in both leather and linen finishes and in several colors for each so you can choose which one best fits your current work or home aesthetic.
The tray is made up of a 7.5W output wireless charger pad for your iPhone, a 5W, non-magnetic Qi wireless charger pad for other compatible devices like Airpods, and a 10W USB-C output at the back part to power other devices like your Apple Watch or another USB-C compatible device. There is also space for things like your wallet, watch, keys, eyeglasses, and other small things that you may need to place beside your devices so you won’t forget any of them before you leave your house or your office.
The carbon-neutral Belgian Linen finish is available in camel, charcoal, and natural colors while the gold-rated Italian Leather finish has the saddle or black color options. It is now available to pre-order on the Courant website but since Black Friday deals are almost upon us, you get a discounted deal for a limited period in case you want to save a few dollars.
The reinvention and return of MagSafe were an instant hit! There is a great sense of satisfaction, in my opinion, to have things just stick to your phone. Be it a pair of earphones (maybe that’ll be the next generation of AirPods) or have your phone just conveniently stick to a charging pad – it’s almost like magic. The reintroduction of the MagSafe led to a whole new world of accessories being unleashed. Designers and creatives were racing to create a whole range of products for the repurposed MagSafe. And we’ve been loving every bit of it! From an ingenious new iPhone MagSafe case design to a Gameboy-inspired MagSafe power bank – there’s a MagSafe accessory out there for your every need. And, we’ve curated many products that we truly believe are worth buying and investing in. This army of accessories will truly amp up your Apple experience!
1. UPRO Ostand Case
Winner of the iF Design Award, the UPRO Ostand case gives your iPhone’s MagSafe feature a bunch of super cool upgrades. This includes the ability to make your phone stand, hang, or stay securely in your hands when you click a selfie or scroll through Instagram. Although the UPRO Ostand looks like your everyday average iPhone case, the familiar magnetic ring on the back gives it that innovative upgrade!
2. Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger
Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger features a simple form factor and dual-shade wood construction. It is quite aesthetic inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian designs, the trend which is fondly known as Japandi. Oakwood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger is a clean and minimal accessory for your iPhone.
3. Apple MagSafe Grip Stand
This unique Apple MagSafe Grip Stand takes inspiration from the Japanese art of paper folding! You can fold it flat and vice versa without the trouble of assembly and disassembly. The innovative accessory is thin, card-size, and lightweight, and you can swiftly attach it to your phone and slip it into your pocket without the worry of snagging or looking weird in your pocket. The stand won’t dislocate from your phone, even if you jump around!
4. Belkin’s 2-in-1 BoostCharge Pro MagSafe Charger
Belkin’s 2-in-1 BoostCharge Pro MagSafe charger for the iPhone 15 is an interesting mix of contemporary sand or charcoal elements and organic minimalism. It is a compact silicone charging stand marked with soft and round shapes on the charger base, including a new flip-up 15W MagSafe pad, allowing it to merge with any modern space.
5. Shin & Han’s MagSafe Accessory
This innovative MagSafe-compatible accessory is designed to help you get over digital addiction. You can stick the accessory to the back of your smartphone, and it features a real clock with a single-hour hand to keep you aware of the passing time, ensuring you don’t spend too much time on your smartphone. The accessory also doubles up as a holder for your cards and quick cash.
6. Ice Speed Freezemat Magsafe Wireless Charger
Called “Ice Speed Freezemat Magsafe Wireless Charger” this proposed Apple accessory uses a very interesting method to dissipate heat, keeping the innards at optimum temperature while gaming or during fast charging rituals. Built out of aviation-grade cooling material, Ice Speed Freezemat has an interesting cooling mechanism inspired by the way the human body sweats to dissipate heat.
7. HiRise 3 Deluxe
Called the HiRise 3 Deluxe, this MagSafe certified accessory can charge your iPhone at up to 15W, and features an adjustable MagSafe pad that allows a 35-degree angle shift for optimal viewing. The charger has a front-to-back arrangement, which ensures that crucial desk real estate isn’t consumed or wasted.
8. 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger
This is the world’s first Apple-Certified 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger from ESR that is equipped with a GaN semiconductor, and it doesn’t just charge your small Apple devices, but it also delivers up to 100W of power to your MacBook, providing an all-in-one solution for all your modern day charging requirements. It has three dedicated slots for your iPhone, AirPods, and Watch, as well as three output ports for charging your laptop, tablet, and power bank.
9. Side Note
Dubbed Side Note, this compact leather-bound notebook is equipped with an integrated pen and a MagSafe-compatible design that lets you snap it onto your iPhone or onto any magnetic surface. The Side Note allows you to always have an analog notepad by your side, letting you quickly note down ideas and journal.
10. The MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank
Designed by Neo Bie and Leigui Lui for Stylepie, the MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank with its 10000mAh capacity aims to improve the wireless charging and power bank experience for anyone. It features the usual four operation buttons: SELECT, START, A, B, and a d-pad (directional pad). The lower part of the yellow power bank has a cover that slides to work as the stand of the power bank.
With its simple form factor and dual-shade wood construction, Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger has an aesthetic quality similar to the kinds found in Japanese and Scandinavian homes. Fondly known as ‘Japandi’ (an obvious portmanteau of the two words), the design style is characterized by cleanliness and minimalism that eschews materialism and clutter. With its Japandi-inspired style, Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand adds a touch of rustic beauty to your table, with a design that looks sophisticated but feels familiar thanks to the use of natural materials like Oak and Walnut wood.
The stand’s two-part design features a powder-coated aluminum base with a wooden ‘tray’ on top. The hefty aluminum base gives the stand its stable design (while also allowing it to function as a paperweight of sorts) while customers have a choice between a light oakwood or dark walnut wood upper, complementing their table setup.
The stand comes with an empty slot that lets you weave your MagSafe charger in. Once put in place, it becomes a nifty magnetic charging dock for your iPhone that you can either use as-is, or detach the MagSafe charger to use as a horizontal charging mat (shown above).
When used in the ‘stand’ mode, it angles your phone at a precise 25°, making it easy to view while also triggering the iPhone’s new Standby Mode – a feature unveiled in the latest iOS 17 update.
If you don’t want to use your Oakywood MagSafe iPhone Stand as a charger, the company sells a magnetic puck that you can slide into the stand, allowing it to work as merely a docking station without the charging facility.
The folks at Oakywood pride themselves in embracing nature as a material and a source for their designs. The use of wood feels antithetical to the metal and glass build of your iPhone, but it brings about a certain warmth to your tabletop, allowing it to become a standard fixture in your workplace. Besides, the entire thing weighs roughly 700 grams (1.5 pounds), making it a rather heavy accessory that doesn’t feel cheap in the slightest.
Oakywood sustainably sources its wood from America and Poland, also pledging to plant one tree for each product sold, thus ensuring a circular economy of sorts that helps reduce the effects of deforestation while turning wood into a renewable resource. You can grab your MagSafe iPhone Stand in three color options – a Light Oak, Dark American Walnut, or a Black Solid Oak that’s the darkest of the lot, matching the powder-coated Aluminum base.
Air-filled Bumpers offer almost total protection from bumps and falls
MagSafe-compatible O-Ring provides a versatile kickstand and holder
Slim and lightweight design maintains the iPhone 15's elegance
CONS:
O-Ring doesn't rotate to support arbitrary positions or angles
Only available for the iPhone Pro and Pro Max models
RATINGS:
AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY
EDITOR'S QUOTE:
The TORRAS UPRO Ostand's air-filled bumpers protect your iPhone from every angle, and a MagSafe-compatible O-ring works as both a holder as well as a kickstand. Apple invented MagSafe. TORRAS perfected it.
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, allowing us to connect with each other, retrieve information, and even create and record memories. We bring our phones with us everywhere, even in some places or circumstances that would be precarious for the electronic device. Apple’s latest event played up that “wonderlust” and presented the iPhone 15 series as the perfect companion for your life’s journeys, especially when it comes time to snap up photos or record videos for posterity. Bringing along a naked iPhone to your many adventures, however, might not be the smartest and most efficient move, especially when not if accidents happen. Just in time for the release of the iPhone 15, TORRAS launched new cases designed to be just as adventurous as the new iPhones, so we take it for a bumpy ride to see if the new UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate can truly turn the iPhone 15 into your faithful companion through life’s up and, most especially, downs.
With so many cases for smartphones littering the market today, you might almost be tempted to give the UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate a pass. Your opinion will quickly change, however, the moment you behold the case, and especially after you’ve put it on your iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max. Depending on the color variant, the case is mostly clear or has a frosted surface that still lets the iPhone’s elegant colors shine through. The Gray case’s clear surface is perfect for the iPhone 15’s Natural or White Titanium colorways, but there are also Black and Blue options to cover the entire iPhone 15 lineup. Either way, your iPhone 15 doesn’t need to sacrifice its elegant colors just so that it can be protected.
You might, however, notice that the edges of the case have a different color and are slightly raised as if bulging a bit. This isn’t just some pointless embellishment and actually serves one of the UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate’s most important functions, which we’ll get to later. Unfortunately, its color, which is mostly light gray, easily stands out from the rest of the case’s edges because of the color contrast. Some might find it visually disconcerting while others might not mind it so much. It could become a problem, however, with other iPhone 15 color options, like RED or future variants. It would have been nice if you could swap out these bumpers for different colors, but that could also reduce the case’s durability in the process.
The other visual detail that stands out is the ring on the back of the case. Thanks to many MagSafe-compatible accessories, the presence of this ring is no longer alien, even though Apple itself doesn’t mark the area on its iPhones. Thankfully, the ring, which is formally called the O-Ring, sits flush on the surface of the case, so it doesn’t cause the phone to wobble when placed on a table, nor will it snag in your pants pocket or other things in your bag. All in all, the TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS has a rather minimalist design, both visually and physically, except for those bumpers and that ring that serve important purposes that give the case its selling points.
Ergonomics
Despite knowing the risks of dropping an expensive iPhone, many people are reluctant to put them in protective cases. These iPhones are, after all, beautiful unclothed and are meant to be slim and comfortable to hold. Most of the fears stem from making the iPhone look like it’s going to war, which is fortunately not the case with this UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate.
In addition to being visually simple and minimalist, the case is also space-efficient and lightweight. It delivers 92% protection against disastrous falls, but instead of simply wrapping the phone in thick layers of material, TORRAS employs innovative technologies that keep the case as slim as possible. The result is that it doesn’t add too much bulk to an already large iPhone 15 Pro or even bigger iPhone 15 Pro Max, nor does it add more burden to your hand when holding it.
In fact, the UPRO Ostand SS improves the iPhone 15’s ergonomics by giving your hand a non-slipper surface to grip. There’s also that O-Ring that folds out of the case, transforming into a holder for your finger to keep the phone steady, whether you’re simply watching videos or taking photos and selfies. The latter is a very important use case for both the new iPhone 15 and this UPRO Ostand SS, giving you the freedom and the confidence to shoot anywhere, knowing that the phone is secure in your hand. And unlike the typical rings that you stick to the back of your phone, the O-Ring folds flat when not in use, hiding in plain sight until it’s needed once more.
Performance
Right out of the packaging, you can already tell that the TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate is not your average case. The contrasting color of the embossed edges immediately call your attention, but these aren’t just for show. Their unique form is actually the case’s main selling point, being air-filled bumpers that protect your phone from drops and shocks, especially when it drops on one of its corners or edges, which is the most common place for this kind of accident.
For this innovation, TORRAS took inspiration from car airbags that protect you from accidents. When the iPhone accidentally drops on its corner or side, the air-filled thermoplastic polyurethane not only absorbs the force of the impact but actually bounces it off, preventing the shock from being transferred to the rest of your phone, which is the most common cause of cracked screens. These bumpers give the phone 360-degree military-grade impact protection that can absorb up to 98% of the shock.
But while protection is its main purpose, that isn’t the only talent that the UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate has, which you can probably discern from its name. It features TORRAS’s unique O-Ring, a ring grip and stand combination that’s built right into the case and, more importantly, doesn’t stick out of it. You simply fold it out and you’re ready to go, standing the iPhone 15 on any flat surface or holding the phone in your hand with support for your finger. You can stand the iPhone vertically or horizontally depending on your use case, and the O-Ring will be able to support it. Unfortunately, the position of the ring itself is fixed in its position, unlike the Ostand R cases where the O-Ring can rotate 360 degrees. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it would have been nice to have to increase the case’s versatility.
That O-Ring has a third function in addition to grip and stand thanks to its use of a Halbach array of magnets. These strong magnets let you stick the phone to any MagSafe stand or holder, like those for cars or bedside tables. Alternatively, you can also stick the iPhone 15 to any metallic surface, from refrigerator or car doors to metal poles and walls. You no longer need to worry about not having a selfie stick or tripod when you can set up the iPhone at a distance anywhere. And, of course, the case lets you charge with MagSafe without having to remove the case. Apple may have introduced the universal USB-C connector for the iPhone 15 series, but those who have tasted MagSafe will probably never go back to cables if they can help it.
Sustainability
The UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate for the iPhone 15 Pro is stylish, durable, and versatile, but the list of its strengths doesn’t end there. When it comes to sustainability, it also has an edge over other smartphone cases. Sure, it has its fair share of plastics, rubber, and other environment-unfriendly materials, but its use of thermoplastic polyurethane for its headlining feature scores in its favor. It has also committed to nurturing one tree in the Brazil Atlantic Forest for every three cases sold. If TORRAS could start using recycled plastics or lay out a more definite sustainability strategy, it would definitely take the lead in this market.
Where the case does shine is in its durability, which is to say that it’s made to last a really long time. It is, after all, designed to protect the iPhone 15 it holds, so it is also quite resilient itself. It won’t last forever, of course, and the case’s surface might tarnish and show discoloration over time. It would have been nice if the bumpers could be replaced independently of the rest of the case or vice versa, but TORRAS probably had to prioritize the product’s structural integrity over that kind of modularity.
Value
There are countless smartphone cases in the market today, especially for something as popular as Apple iPhones. With the launch of the iPhone 15 series, there’s bound to be even more, as proven by the flood of announcements following Apple’s event last week. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of cases that promise the same things but deliver in different ways, sometimes not at all. The TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate for the iPhone 15 Pro sets itself apart from the crowd by delivering not only protection for your precious new iPhone but also confidence and peace of mind.
The Ostand SS ShieldMate frees you from worries about accidents when bringing your iPhone 15 along for the ride in your outdoor adventures, globe-trotting, and other activities. It also allows you to hold the phone securely in your hand, whether for enjoying content or creating it, even letting you stick it to walls, poles, and surfaces to make it easier to take group selfies or do hands-free live streaming. The UPRO Ostand SS is definitely a great deal, but that only applies if you own an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max. Unfortunately, the cases aren’t available for the non-Pro models, but TORRAS has a plethora of other options that offer protection as well as the versatility of the O-Ring for a wide range of iPhones.
Verdict
Smartphones have reached a point where they’ve become more than just gadgets but also important companions in our lives. The iPhone 15, with its enhanced photography prowess and upgraded hardware, offers one of if not the best tools for making life more enjoyable and more memorable. Its stylish designs, now in titanium, give it the expected Apple elegance that you wouldn’t want to cover up with a tank-like case, regardless of how much protection it offers.
Fortunately, the TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate is here to check all the right boxes and then some. While Apple’s absolutely dropped the ball on MagSafe, the folks at TORRAS thankfully are taking the magnetic ring to new heights. The UPRO Ostand is a unique iPhone case that doesn’t just protect your phone, it gives it superpowers. The Ostand’s air-filled bumpers protect your iPhone from every angle, and a MagSafe-compatible O-ring works as both a holder as well as a kickstand. Apple invented MagSafe. TORRAS perfected it.
Although the most interesting iPhone feature to be announced at WWDC, it seems like the StandBy Mode‘s thunder was entirely stolen by the Vision Pro headset announcement. The StandBy Mode is Apple’s clever way of making the iPhone screen useful even when you’re not using it. Dock the iPhone horizontally on a MagSafe charger and the StandBy Mode screen kicks in, turning into a clock, calendar, or widget of your choice. The screen uses Apple’s always-on display technology, and since it needs to be plugged in to be active, it doesn’t affect your iPhone battery. The StandBy Mode was announced in June, but it gets its first proper third-party product in the form of Twelve South’s HiRise 3 Deluxe – a 3-in-1 charging stand that charges your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch simultaneously without occupying a lot of space on your nightstand.
Designer: Twelve South
The HiRise 3 Deluxe is MagSafe certified, capable of charging your iPhone at up to 15W. It offers a unique advantage with its adjustable MagSafe pad, allowing a 35-degree angle shift for optimal viewing. Unlike traditional side-by-side layouts, this charger adopts a front-to-back arrangement, saving crucial desk real estate for those cramped nightstands or cluttered work areas. Twelve South prides itself on a footprint smaller than an iPhone 14 Pro Max laid flat. Additionally, the Apple Watch charging spot can be angle-adjusted too, allowing you to charge the Watch laid down flat, or even sitting upright if your band doesn’t open like traditional straps.
Although almost any MagSafe charging stand would activate the iPhone’s StandBy Mode, Twelve South was quick to capitalize on the HiRise 3 Deluxe’s ability by pretty much showing it in action. Dock the iPhone in place and its StandBy Mode activates automatically. You can swipe through screens to choose different clock/calendar styles or even select your own cards/widgets to show up when you’re charging your phone. Conversely, if you just want to charge your phone without the ‘theatrics’, dock it in portrait mode and it charges normally.
Aside from its clever, compact design, the HiRise 3 Deluxe is also MFi-certified, which allows it to charge your devices at the highest speeds permissible. In that vein, the dock supplies your phone with 15W, while giving your AirPods 7.5W of power to juice them faster than most conventional wireless chargers. The convenience ultimately lies in the fact that one single dock takes care of all your devices using a single cable and a single power socket, saving space pretty much everywhere. I’d throw in an AirPower Mat joke here but given how classy and functional the HiRise 3 Deluxe is, I wouldn’t want to kick a trillion-dollar company when it’s down.
Available on both Twelve South’s as well as on Apple’s own website, the HiRise 3 Deluxe starts at $149.95 and only comes in black.
The people who say Less Is More clearly didn’t come across the Stympro. A 4-in-1 accessory for your iPhone, this bad-boy is a MagSafe Power Bank, a Wallet, a Phone Stand, and a ‘Find My’ compatible Tracking Device all bundled into one. Quite literally the perfect accessory for your iPhone, the Stympro charges your device, stores your cards, and lets you track your belongings if they ever get stolen. It measures 10mm thick (0.3 inches), weighs 100 grams (3.5 ounces), and also props up your phone if you want to FaceTime hands-free. Pretty neat, eh?
Call me a bit of a pessimist, but I wouldn’t expect Apple to make a gadget like the Stympro. Why? Because it just doesn’t make any business sense. Why sell them a 4-in-1 product when you could sell them 4 individual products, right?! The Stympro does the job of a wallet, a charger, a stand, and an AirTag, all of which together would end up costing you well over $200. The Stympro, on the other hand, is a nifty $79 gadget that packs everything into one convenient design. With a PU leather exterior (it isn’t FineWoven, but that’s alright), the Stympro snaps to the back of your iPhone using the MagSafe protocol. It sports a slot that holds 3 payment cards (just like Apple’s MagSafe wallet), charges your phone thanks to its built-in 2000mAh battery (just like Apple’s now discontinued MagSafe Battery pack), and also has its own Find My feature that lets you track the wallet if it ever goes missing. If that wasn’t enough, the wallet also doubles as a kickstand thanks to a built-in hinge, turning into an easel of sorts to prop your phone up in both landscape as well as portrait modes.
The Stympro’s stand feature works in landscape and in portrait.
The Stympro comes with a polycarbonate body that has a PU leather clad over it. N52 magnets on the inside allow the Stympro to attach securely to your iPhone, and a microfiber inner lining ensures the accessory doesn’t leave scratches on your phone’s glass back. A 2000mAh inner battery begins charging your phone the second it snaps on, relying on MagSafe for alignment and Qi-charging protocols to deliver 7.5W of wireless power to your device. To charge the Stympro’s inner battery, a USB-C port built into the bottom lets you merely plug it into your phone charger.
Stympro holds anywhere between 1-3 cards
Although designed to attach to your phone, the Stympro’s makers also envisioned a scenario where the 4-in-1 wallet isn’t affixed to the back of your smartphone. In the eventuality that your iPhone and Stympro get separated, a built-in tracker lets you determine the location of your wallet on the iPhone’s Find My app in real-time. A tweeter within the wallet also lets you remotely ‘ring’ your Stympro, allowing you to hear it if it’s in a messy or crowded space and is difficult to spot.
It’s easy to just dub the Stympro as a ‘multifunctional’ wallet, but what it does is just common sense, if you look at it from a consumer lens. It just doesn’t make sense for the four different products (power bank, wallet, stand, tracking device) to exist as independent objects. In fact, isn’t that the very ethos behind the iPhone? When Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPhone, he dubbed it as an “iPod with touch controls, a phone, and a breakthrough internet communications device.” Through constant repetition of this very phrase, Jobs hinted at the fact that what he was talking about wasn’t three separate products – it was one single device, capable of doing multiple things. In all those ways, the Stympro is just that, a cleverly built accessory that handles multiple crucial roles while being the best damn companion your iPhone could ask for.
The Stympro comes in Midnight Black and Orange variants, starting at a discounted price of $79 with global shipping beginning in November of this year.
Apple is known for its iconic design and technology. The iPhone 15 and 15 Plus represent a positive step forward. In the past, owning a non-Pro iPhone may have felt like settling for less. However, these new devices’ impressive array of features is truly awe-inspiring. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have sleek designs and advanced technology that may attract current Android users. I was thoroughly impressed as someone who had the opportunity to explore both devices.
The Design Language
The latest iPhone series now features a matte back design, a departure from its previous models. Its curved edges provide a comfortable grip, with contoured edges that offer a secure hold without being too sharp. Additionally, this year’s color palette includes pastel shades, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and sophisticated look, and a classic black variant for those who prefer a more traditional style.
But, colors aside, the new textured matte finish truly enamors. In its exceptional way of explaining processes, Apple mentions the finish being “optimized by a custom dual ion-exchange process” and “polished with nano-crystalline particles.” Sounds fancy. In more tangible terms, it’s a surface that fearlessly resists the smudges and fingerprints of eager journalists, letting the device shine in its pristine state.
iOS 17 & Dynamic Island
When the iPhone 15 is turned on, iOS 17 and Dynamic Island are activated, seamlessly blending beauty and function. Dynamic Island was introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, and it’s remarkable that it’s now a standard feature on the iPhone 15. This feature turns the familiar notch into a multitasking hub, allowing users to easily interact with their most frequently used apps in an innovative way. For the average user moving to the iPhone 15, this feature may seem enchanting, even though existing iPhone Pro owners may not find it to be a major addition.
iOS 17 comes equipped with Contact Posters, Name Drop and Live Stickers
The iPhone comes with Crash Detection, a vital feature that helps save lives
Final Thoughts
I have to admit, I was impressed by the unveiling of the new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. What stood out the most was how the standard iPhone model has finally become its own and no longer takes a backseat to its Pro counterparts. The long list of features from the standard model has significantly improved, and it’s evident that choosing it won’t mean sacrificing quality.
The latest iPhone 15 lineup for 2023 was recently introduced by Apple at their headquarters in Cupertino, California. I was surprised by this one as someone who has followed many iPhone launches. The lineup offers a variety of options, from the basic iPhone 15 at $799 to the high-end iPhone 15 Pro Max priced at $1199.
Today, I had the opportunity to get a closer look at these new iPhones. While most people might not notice the differences immediately, I was struck by one thing – the Pro and Pro Max versions were incredibly light! Cradling them in my hand left me momentarily speechless.
It’s worth noting that Apple has significantly changed its Pro series this year. The steel material has been replaced with a stunning titanium body, completely transforming the device’s feel. While this change may not be immediately obvious from a distance or in photos, holding the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max is a completely different experience. It’s as if your trusted daily companion has undergone a rigorous workout and emerged stronger and more impressive than ever before. This revamp is truly awe-inspiring and may make you consider upgrading from your previous year’s Pro model.
We’re considering a 9% weight drop on the 6.1-inch iPhone 15 Pro from last year’s model. Its larger variant, the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max, has also shed some weight, standing 8% lighter. Now, these percentages might seem minor in writing, but in the realm of day-to-day handling, it’s a game-changer. I mean, just consider the countless hours we spend with our phones in hand. From binging videos to texting or, let’s be honest, those endless scrolling sessions. Every gram saved is a win, especially for that ever-struggling pinky finger propping up the phone’s base.
Granted, $999 might be a tad heavy on the wallet, especially for the Pro version with a basic 128GB. But considering the comfort and the premium feel, it’s an upgrade I’m seriously contemplating. And for those of us who’ve had our pinkies working overtime these past years, this is the break they’ve been waiting for.
In essence, if you’re in the market for an upgrade, or even if you’re just a curious tech enthusiast, the iPhone 15 Pro lineup deserves a look – if not for anything else, then to give your pockets and pinky a lighter day. I’m contemplating handing my 1TB iPhone 14 Pro Max to my 13-year-old daughter. I’ve got my sights set on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. But choosing the color? Well, I’ve got until Friday to make up my mind.
Delving into the iPhone 15 Pro’s ‘Action Button’: A Multifunctional Marvel
In an era of minimalist design, where every element aims to provide multifunctionality, Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro emerges as a frontrunner, seamlessly aligning with the device’s aesthetic and delving deep into practical utility.
During my hands-on interaction, the Action Button immediately commanded attention. It’s evident Apple meticulously designed it to eliminate inadvertent triggers; a brief press enlightens you with an on-screen cue, suggesting a more intentional press-and-hold mechanism. This thoughtful addition undoubtedly enhances user experience, ensuring tasks are executed deliberately.
Venture into the settings and a vast realm of customization is unveiled. But of all the utilities the Action Button can be mapped to, the camera stands out as my personal favorite, and it’s likely to be the most frequently used by many. In an age of fleeting moments and instant captures, the ability to immediately access the camera could be game-changing.
But the versatility of the Action Button doesn’t halt there. Whether you’re looking to instantly shift the ambiance using the ‘Focus’ mode, illuminate your surroundings with the ‘flashlight,’ or swiftly capture a voice note with ‘voice memo,’ this button can do it all. The’ translate’ function promises to be invaluable for users who often find themselves in diverse linguistic landscapes. The ‘magnifier’ feature is also a boon for those seeking visual clarity, making minute details discernible.
The Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro is an impressive feature that is made even better by its integration with ‘Shortcuts.’ This feature allows for endless possibilities, even if third-party apps don’t have direct access to the Action Button. With ‘Shortcuts,’ users can create a personalized experience by accessing specific apps or features within them.
The Action Button is more than just a physical button; it represents Apple’s commitment to merging design and functionality. No matter what your preferred ‘action’ may be, whether it’s taking photos or using voice memos or translation features, the Action Button has something for everyone. This is a testament to Apple’s design philosophy and the universality of the button.
iPhone 15 Pro Series: A Photographic Evolution
The cameras on the iPhone have always been a standout feature, attracting those who appreciate attention to detail. During my brief experience with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, it was clear that the image quality was nothing short of amazing. However, a more thorough analysis of these camera systems will be saved for a comprehensive review.
A Symphony of Lenses
At first glance, the iPhone 15 Pro promises a renewed main camera experience. Yet, it’s the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with its all-new 5x telephoto camera, that truly shines—especially for those moments when distance challenges the story you’re trying to capture. Whether it’s a majestic eagle in mid-flight, the grandeur of distant peaks, or just children lost in their playful world, the Pro Max delivers.
During the launch event, Greg “Joz” Joswiak, Apple’s dynamic marketing leader, highlighted the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max’s remarkable feature, which is like having access to seven different camera lenses. It’s fascinating to see how smartphones today can imitate traditional cameras’ zoom lenses with their various lens combinations. All of this technology is packed into a compact, handheld device. However, this level of luxury is typically only found in the highest-end smartphones.
The Lure of the Details
Both versions of the Pro model have a reliable camera setup. The main camera is a 48-megapixel wide-angle lens, and there is also a 12-megapixel ultrawide option. However, there are some differences. The main camera can adjust its focal length from 24mm to 35mm, making it flexible and versatile for photographers. On the other hand, the ultrawide lens has a focal length of 13mm and can smoothly shift into a macro mode, perfect for capturing close-up shots.
The difference between the two Pro models is most noticeable in their telephoto capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro has a 3x telephoto lens, similar to its predecessor, while the Pro Max has a 5x lens supported by advanced image stabilization technology.
Crafting the Vision
Apple stays ahead of the game with its continuous advancements despite the competition from Android giants. The main camera, boasting 48 megapixels, is the core of the photography experience on both models. With a larger sensor and Apple’s computational expertise, the visuals are guaranteed to be breathtaking, and you have the freedom to customize your perspective when using the camera.
Even in low-light conditions or as the sun sets, the new lens offers clarity thanks to its wide f1.8 aperture. Additionally, the second-generation image stabilization ensures that the iPhone’s reputation for superior camera technology will persist.
As the iPhone 15 Pro series photographic narrative unfolds, we’ll watch every frame and every story. Keep those lenses focused and the stories flowing until the full review.
iPhone 15 Series: A USB-C switch with a Twist
The iPhone 15 and 15 Pro mark Apple’s entry into the world of USB-C, which is a long-awaited move. At first glance, it seems like a significant step forward, but there are complexities to this innovation, as is common with many advancements.
The iPhone 15 Pro promises potential data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps. Such speeds evoke images of near-instantaneous file transfers and seamless streaming. However, in a move that might perplex some, Apple’s choice to pack in a USB 2.0 cable, despite its type-C port, means users won’t tap into those blazing speeds right out of the gate.
During their keynote, Apple clarified that to harness the potential of these “USB 3 speeds truly”, an “optional USB 3” cable would be required. This addition promises not just brisker data transfer but also extends to sublime video output capabilities – imagine 4K at a mesmerizing 60 fps HDR.
Presently, Apple offers a solution for those seeking these enhanced speeds: a Thunderbolt 4 cable, available separately at $69. This might feel like an additional investment for the savvy consumer to unlock the iPhone’s capabilities fully.
Apple’s commitment to USB-C is evident in their expanded accessory lineup. From high-wattage charging cables to a handy USB-C to a lightning dongle, the ecosystem is evolving. However, the underlying message is clear: to experience the zenith of what the iPhone 15 series USB-C offers, an additional investment seems inevitable.
Apple’s adoption of USB-C technology is a significant advancement that brings the iPhone closer to universal compatibility and faster speeds. However, it’s crucial for users to fully understand its intricacies so they can make informed decisions and fully utilize the capabilities of their devices. As with any innovation, there is a mix of excitement and reflection.
Apple has just launched the latest generation of iPhones and, to no one’s surprise, they are chock full of new features and stunning designs that take smartphones to the next level. Of course, the occasion is also an opportunity for brands to show off their new wares designed specifically for the new iPhone 15 series. As always, there’s a wide variety of them available to cater to different needs and aesthetic tastes, but one type of accessory that always stands out is the cases that protect your investment while also adding a little extra to your experience. That’s the kind of deal that TORRAS’s new UPRO cases for the new iPhone 15 are bringing to the table, offering not only all-around protection but also enhanced usability that takes your smartphone use to the next level, whether you’re navigating on the highway, leisurely watching a video, or even live streaming your latest adventure.
Designer: TORRAS
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iPhone 15 Pro
TORRAS UPRO Ostand Super Shockproof Shield Mate: Protection and Innovation in Tandem
The iPhone 15 series just went live with beautiful new colors and new materials, which will make you want to make sure they’re well protected even more. Phone cases are a dime a dozen, especially for iPhones, but few are able to do their job while still preserving the elegance of the iPhone’s innate design. Even fewer are able to offer value beyond just protection, making them a single-trick pony at best.
The TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate, short for “Super Shockproof,” definitely stands apart from the crowd, pun totally intended. The protective case was meticulously designed to let the iPhone’s design shine through its clear surface while still offering unparalleled protection when, not if, accidents happen, especially when dropping the phone from any height or angle. The high-durability TPU material alone already absorbs 98% of the shock, but it has another trick up its sleeve to add even more protection to the phone and confidence to users.
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Inspired by the air cushion found in many shoes, the TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS ShieldMate utilizes air-filled bumpers around the edges of the case to bounce back external forces from drops and bumps. SGS-certified for 12-foot drop tests, the case is unmatched in offering protection for your precious new iPhone 15. And that’s without making the phone look like a tank heading out for war, maintaining the iPhone 15’s slim profile, and letting its true colors catch the eye of any beholder.
But wait, there’s more! The Ostand line of cases takes its name from the innovative O-shaped ring, a versatile kickstand that offers three functions in one design. The built-in kickstand lets you prop up the iPhone 15 on any flat surface, whether vertically or horizontally, to make short work of video calls and video binges. The MagSafe-compatible ring also lets you wirelessly charge the phone without having to take off the UPRO case, attach MagSafe accessories, or stick the phone to car chargers or even refrigerator doors. Finally, that O-ring lets you hold the phone securely with one hand, similar to other ring attachments but without the awkward bulk that gets in your way.
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TORRAS UPRO Ostand R: 360-degree Versatility
If the compact UPRO Ostand SS still feels a bit too much, TORRAS has another option that doesn’t skimp on protection while still offering impressive flexibility of functions. The TORRAS UPRO Ostand R, now available for the iPhone 15 Pro line, brings an extra slim protective case that still boasts SGS and RoHS certifications for drops from a height of 12ft. That’s thanks to the ShockMAT technology that brings full-body protection not just against drops but also against scratches. All these while keeping the phone in your pocket as close to the original thin profile of the iPhone 15 Pro.
Its defining feature, however, is its innovative magnetic ring that functions as a kickstand and holder, similar to the new UPRO Ostand SS. What makes it different, however, is its ability to rotate 360 to any position you want, allowing it to be more flexible and more versatile in the positioning of the phone. The kickstand itself can be set to almost any angle, providing limitless ways to prop up the iPhone 15 Pro for content consumption or creation.
That O-ring uses powerful neodymium magnets so attaching to compatible surfaces is lightning fast. Of course, it’s compatible with MagSafe technology, so chargers and accessories are fully supported without having to take off the case and expose your iPhone to harm. Whether you’re taking an unplanned business call outdoors, shooting your latest social media clip, or simply lounging in bed to watch your favorite TV series, the TORRAS UPRO Ostand SS and Ostand R bring unmatched protection and versatility that levels up your iPhone 15 game.
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