Welcome to this week's Apple Loop, where we highlight some of the most interesting discussions and news from Cupertino. This week, we cover potential delays for the iPhone 15, exciting new battery technology, Apple's iMac plans, improvements to Apple Maps, and the latest in the App Store appeal process.

iPhone 15 Delay Concerns

Rumors are swirling about a potential delay for the iPhone 15. While consumers might not feel the impact, those keeping an eye on Apple's quarterly results should take note. Analyst Wamsi Mohan from Bank of America suggests that the launch could be pushed to October. Apple's September events typically see hardware released later in the month, so a week's delay could be expected. However, this might affect Apple's Q3 figures, leading to concerns among Wall Street analysts.

Update: Saturday, July 22nd:

Following the previous analysis by Mohan, The Information has published further details on issues Apple is facing with the iPhone 15 Pro models. The display modules from LG are reportedly complicating the bonding process with the frame, similar to what's used in the Apple Watch. While a delay for the iPhone 15 Pro is not expected, there might be limited supplies during the initial launch.

Revolutionary Battery Technology for iPhone 15

In response to Samsung's "stacked battery technology" coming to the next Galaxy S handsets, Apple is also exploring this approach for the iPhone 15 family. Stacked batteries offer higher capacities, faster charging, and longer overall battery life, making them highly desirable features for smartphone users. Leaked information suggests that the entire iPhone 15 lineup will benefit from this advancement.

iPhone 16 Camera Upgrade

Apple is reportedly working on a periscope-styled lens system for the iPhone Pro cameras, which could lead to a massive upgrade for the iPhone 16. The new system may include a "super/ultra" branded telephoto lens with a focal length of over 300mm. This improvement would offer users much greater optical magnification, making it worth considering for those planning to upgrade.

iMac Plans and Delay

Apple is gearing up to introduce a larger iMac with a massive 32-inch display, likely featuring the next-generation M3 silicon for enhanced performance. However, the release of this updated iMac might not happen until 2024, as Apple takes its time to deliver what customers want. The current 24-inch iMac is the only all-in-one computer available from Apple, and while they have discontinued Intel-based 27-inch iMac models, the larger-screen iMac with Apple silicon is still in development.

Apple Maps Continues to Improve

Apple Maps has come a long way since its 2012 debut, although it still faces competition from Google Maps. Apple has made significant updates to its maps, adding more detail, a Look Around feature similar to Google's Street View, and offline map downloads in the upcoming iOS 17 release. These improvements demonstrate Apple's commitment to enhancing its mapping service.

App Store Payment Appeal Status

The legal battle over Apple's "anti-steering rules," which restrict app developers from pointing users to alternative payment methods outside the App Store, continues. The Appeal Court's ruling allowing developers to use third-party services has been temporarily suspended, pending a decision from the US Supreme Court. This case remains critical for both Apple and app developers.

And Finally...

In a surprising turn of events, an original 4GB iPhone from 2007 was sold at auction for a staggering $190,000. The phone was described as a "holy grail" among iPhone collectors due to its extreme scarcity and excellent condition. This highlights the enduring fascination with Apple's early products among collectors and tech enthusiasts.

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