The iPhone 15 might not have a circular design after all — here’s why

 The renaissance of rounded iPhone edges may be put on hold next year when the iPhone 15 launches, as supply chain issues could force Apple to stick with the current iPhone design.

That’s the word from LeaksApplePro, who spoke to Forbes about Apple’s so-called iPhone 15 plans. According to the anonymous leaker, Apple has not committed to bringing back rounded edges, although Apple executives are still strongly considering them for the iPhone 15 series. In fact, LeaksApplePro seems to imply that Apple does want rounded edges, but may not have a choice.

iPhone 15: Flat back or rounded edges?

The past few iPhone versions, dating back to the iPhone 12, have centered around the phablet. Some people like this design because it makes the phone more durable, but others find the edges less comfortable than the rounded design.

Earlier this year, reports suggested that Apple was preparing to bring back rounded edges on the iPhone 15 to update the look of its phones. Now that decision appears to be up in the air.

There are several reasons why Apple is still debating between flat and round back designs. Supply chain restrictions are still ravaging the world in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Shutdowns in China and other geopolitical issues in the region and the US have Apple making contingency plans, as evidenced by Apple’s partnership with TSMC to produce 4nm process chipsets in Arizona.

Another concern is that Apple also wants to ensure a premium feel and materials for its smartphones, with the iPhone 15’s rumored rounded edges introducing design complications. Apple is reportedly treating the glass back panel of its iPhones as a non-negotiable element because it is required for wireless charging. If Apple can’t figure out how to make a rounded glass rear panel for wireless charging, the company could be forced to use rounded edges on the iPhone 16 or later down the road.

A round-backed iPhone is ideal for many users, which is why Apple may go to great lengths to bring it to the iPhone 15. Ergonomically, phones with rounded corners are much more comfortable to hold in the hand than phablets, and both the back design and Apple seem to be aware of this.

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