Apple’s announcement of the iPhone 15 came with a significant processor upgrade for the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, featuring the new A17 Pro chip. This chip boasts a six-core central processing unit and a six-core graphics processing unit, offering a notable enhancement over the A16 processor found in last year’s iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max, as well as the current iPhone 15 and 15 Plus models.
The additional GPU core in the A17 Pro chip promises improved graphics performance, opening doors to advanced gaming capabilities such as ray tracing. This rendering technique enhances the realism of lighting in scenes, including reflections and shadows, making for a more immersive visual experience.
Industry experts view this emphasis on GPU as a significant move for Apple. Ben Bajarin, CEO and principal analyst of Creative Strategies, noted the importance of the GPU in shaping the iPhone’s trajectory, particularly in areas like photography, chip technology, visual experiences, and gaming.
The upgraded graphics capabilities have prompted game developers to create iPhone-native versions of their popular titles. Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Capcom’s Resident Evil 4 Remake are both set to debut on the iPhone 15 Pro in the coming year.
Furthermore, Apple’s latest processors, including the A17 Pro chip, mark the company’s first use of 3-nanometer technology. This advanced semiconductor node contributes to the price increase of the new generation of devices. These advanced chips are primarily manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), with Apple as one of its largest customers. Concerns have arisen over the geopolitical implications of TSMC’s production being centered in Taiwan.
Bajarin pointed out that the shift to 3-nanometer chips is a significant development for Apple, potentially putting it in direct competition with desktop processors like those produced by Intel.
Additionally, Apple introduced a new chip, the S9 System in Package (SiP), in the Apple Watch Series 9. This SiP chip powers new features, including a double-tap gesture for calls and on-device Siri, enhancing privacy for health data storage.
Apple’s investment in cutting-edge chip technology underlines its commitment to delivering high-performance devices and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.
