iPhone 15 rumour: an EV-style stacked battery

Update (October 2026): Apple announced the iPhone 15 range on 12 September 2023 and released it on 22 September. Every model switched from Lightning to USB-C, but the solid-state buttons never appeared: the Pro models got a customisable Action button in place of the ring/silent switch instead. Apple's launch announcements did not mention a stacked battery, and the rated video playback of the standard iPhone 15 stayed at up to 20 hours, the same as the iPhone 14.

Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 15 may introduce a groundbreaking battery technology, according to a recent report, signalling a potential leap forward in smartphone power capabilities. An anonymous source, known as RGcloudS on Twitter, claims that the upcoming iPhone models, slated for release in September, will incorporate a stacked battery design commonly utilised in electric vehicles.

By vertically stacking battery components, Apple aims to optimise space utilisation and potentially achieve a higher energy density for its new iPhones. This innovative design could lead to more tightly packaged battery components, offering users improved battery life and performance.

An earlier report from ITHome suggested that the next-generation iPhones might see a remarkable 15% increase in battery life, a development that has piqued the interest of experts and consumers alike. While advancements in camera and display technology have been notable in recent years, improvements in battery life have been incremental. The iPhone 14, for instance, demonstrated only modest enhancements compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 13.

RGcloudS, the leaker responsible for the battery technology revelation, cautioned that the implementation of the new design in the iPhone 15 may be limited initially, indicating potential constraints or gradual adoption as the handsets are released to the public.

In addition to the battery advancements, there are speculations surrounding other design upgrades for the iPhone 15. Leaked information suggests that Apple might replace the lightning port with USB-C for the first time, while also eliminating the mechanical volume and power buttons in favour of solid-state alternatives.

Another notable rumour is the inclusion of a new chip to support Apple's forthcoming Vision Pro VR headset, enabling the iPhone 15 to seamlessly integrate within a more competitive ecosystem, according to prominent leaker Ming-Chi Kuo.

These recent rumours complement the features Apple unveiled at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June. The tech giant previewed a range of upgrades in iOS 17, the software the iPhone 15 would ship with, including new journaling tools, AirDrop enhancements, live transcription in voicemail, and a standby mode that transforms the iPhone into a smart display.

As September approaches, anticipation grows for the release of Apple's iPhone 15, which is expected to introduce cutting-edge battery technology alongside an array of exciting features and improvements.