The iPhone 15 Plus remains a major point of interest for Indian smartphone buyers in early 2026. While newer models like the iPhone 16 and the rumored iPhone 17 series dominate the headlines, the 15 Plus has carved out a niche for those who want a massive screen and legendary battery life without the “Pro” price tag. With the recent Republic Day sales kicking off across platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, this device has seen significant price corrections, making it a tempting upgrade for many.
What Makes the iPhone 15 Plus Relevant Today?
When it launched, the iPhone 15 Plus was a turning point for Apple’s non-Pro lineup. It introduced the Dynamic Island to the larger base model, replacing the aging notch and giving it a modern look that still holds up alongside the latest releases. For users in India who consume a lot of video content or spend hours gaming, the 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display offers a flagship-level visual experience.
One of the biggest reasons it is trending right now is its USB-C charging port. This was the first generation to ditch the Lightning cable, meaning it fits perfectly into the modern ecosystem of chargers used by laptops and other gadgets. Even in 2026, the A16 Bionic chip inside remains faster than many mid-range Android processors, handling daily tasks and social media apps with ease.
Current Pricing and Availability in India
As of January 2026, the iPhone 15 Plus has seen its official price drop significantly. Originally launched at a premium, the 128GB base variant is now frequently listed around ₹69,900, with effective prices dropping closer to ₹62,000–₹64,000 during major shopping festivals.
Retailers like Imagine, Croma, and Reliance Digital, along with e-commerce giants, are offering aggressive bank discounts. If you have an older device to trade in, the effective cost can even dip below the ₹55,000 mark, which is incredible value for a “Plus” model that shares the same screen real estate as the Pro Max series.
Performance and Battery: The Long-Term Verdict
In the Indian context, where “battery life” is often the top priority, the iPhone 15 Plus is still a champion. It famously outlasts many Pro models because it doesn’t have the power-hungry Always-On display or the high-refresh-rate ProMotion tech. For a typical user in a city like Delhi or Mumbai, who may be away from a charger all day, this phone easily delivers two days of light use.
The camera system, featuring a 48MP main sensor, still captures stunning photos that are more than enough for Instagram or family memories. While it lacks the dedicated telephoto lens of the newer Pro models, the “2x optical-quality” crop from the main sensor provides great versatility for portraits.
Why It Matters: The “Value” Factor
Why are so many Indians looking at the 15 Plus instead of the latest iPhone 16 Plus? The answer is simple: marginal gains vs. cost. While the newer models offer a slightly faster chip and dedicated “Camera Control” buttons, the core experience—the screen, the battery, and the software—is very similar.
Apple has also committed to long-term software support. With iOS 19 and the upcoming iOS 20, the iPhone 15 Plus is expected to stay updated for several more years, ensuring that your investment doesn’t become obsolete anytime soon.
Read More : OnePlus 12 5GÂ
What to Expect Next
As we move further into 2026, expect the iPhone 15 Plus to eventually be phased out of the official Apple Store to make room for newer budget-friendly “Air” or “Slim” models. However, it will likely remain available through third-party retailers for the rest of the year. If you are looking for the most affordable way to get a “big” iPhone with a Type-C port, the window to grab a new 15 Plus at these discounted rates is now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the iPhone 15 Plus waterproof?
Yes, it has an IP68 rating, which means it can survive being submerged in up to 6 meters of water for about 30 minutes. It is also resistant to common spills like tea or soda.
2. Does the iPhone 15 Plus support 5G in India?
Absolutely. It is fully compatible with both Jio and Airtel 5G networks across all supported bands in India.
3. What is the main difference between iPhone 15 Plus and 16 Plus?
The iPhone 16 Plus has a newer A18 chip, supports Apple Intelligence features, and has a dedicated “Action” and “Camera Control” button. However, the screen size and battery life are very similar on both.
4. Should I buy the 128GB or 256GB version?
Since the iPhone 15 Plus can record high-quality 4K video, the 128GB storage can fill up quickly. If you plan to keep the phone for 3 or more years, the 256GB version is a safer choice.
5. Does it come with a charger in the box?
No. Like all recent iPhones, it only comes with a USB-C to USB-C charging cable. You will need to buy a 20W or higher power adapter separately.
