Apple Unveils iPhone 15 With USB-C, Periscope Zoom and A17 Chip

Apple has finally revealed its latest flagship smartphone, the iPhone 15, at its September 12 event. The new device boasts several features that make it stand out from the previous generation, as well as from the competition.

One of the most notable changes is the switch from Lightning to USB-C as the charging and data port. This means that iPhone users can now use the same cable for their MacBook, iPad and other accessories, as well as enjoy faster charging and data transfer speeds. Apple said that the move to USB-C was motivated by environmental and consumer benefits, as it reduces electronic waste and saves money for users¹.

Another major upgrade is the camera system, especially on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which is rumored to be rebranded as the iPhone 15 Ultra. The device features a periscope-style telephoto lens that can achieve up to 6x optical zoom, surpassing the 3x zoom of the iPhone 14 Pro Max and the 2x zoom of the iPhone 15 Pro. The periscope lens uses a prism to bend light and extend the focal length, allowing for clearer and more detailed shots from far distances.

The iPhone 15 also introduces a new processor, the A17 Bionic, which powers the Pro models. The chip is said to offer significant improvements in performance, speed and efficiency, as well as support advanced features and technologies such as machine learning, augmented reality and 5G. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models run on the A16 Bionic chip, which is still faster and more powerful than most of its rivals.

Other features that make the iPhone 15 exceptional include a Dynamic Island cutout instead of a notch for all models, which allows for more screen space and a sleeker design; a main 48MP camera for all models, which delivers stunning photos and videos with enhanced clarity and color accuracy; larger batteries for all models, which provide longer battery life and support wireless charging; and a titanium frame for the Pro models, which makes them stronger and lighter than ever before.

The iPhone 15 series is expected to be available for pre-order on September 19 and to ship on September 26. The prices are $799 for the iPhone 15, $899 for the iPhone 15 Plus, $999 for the iPhone 15 Pro and $1,199 for the iPhone 15 Ultra. The colors are Black, White, Yellow and Blue for all models, with an additional Orange/Coral Pink option for the standard models.

Interswitch to Facilitate the Usage of Contactless Payment Through Google Pay

Interswitch, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company in Africa, has announced that it will support Google Pay on its Interswitch Payment Gateway (IPG) platform. This means that businesses and individuals in Nigeria can now enjoy the convenience and security of contactless payments and digital storage with their Android devices.

Google Pay is a fast, easy, and safe way for users in more than 70 countries and territories to pay with their Android phone or Wear OS device. Users can simply add their debit and credit cards to the Google Wallet app and feel confident that their financial information is safe and secure when they’re making a purchase or catching a train.

By integrating Google Pay into its Payment Gateway, Interswitch is enabling businesses to access a global customer base while ensuring secure and reliable payments. Merchants can now store payment details within Google Wallet, which facilitates a smoother checkout process on the Interswitch platform, enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the collaboration enables the acceptance of international cards on the Interswitch Payment Gateway, positioning businesses to seamlessly cater to a broader international clientele.

Utilizing Google Pay on the Interswitch platform also ensures safer transactions fortified by advanced security measures. This includes industry-standard tokenization where transactions utilize a virtual card number, adding an extra layer of protection against potential fraud. And in cases of misplaced devices, users can quickly safeguard their information using the “Find my device” function.

Muyiwa Asagba, the Managing Director of Digital Commerce & Merchant Acquiring at Interswitch, said, “We are proud to align with Google Pay, as it exemplifies our commitment to delivering cutting-edge payment solutions that facilitate seamless transactions for businesses and their customers. By integrating Google Pay into our Payment Gateway, we are empowering businesses to harness the potential of a global customer base while ensuring secure and reliable payments.”

Jenny Cheng, the Vice President and General Manager of Google Wallet, said, “Google Pay provides a fast, easy, and safe way for users in more than 70 countries and territories to pay with their Android phone or Wear OS device. Users can simply add their debit and credit cards to the Google Wallet app and feel confident that their financial information is safe and secure when they’re making a purchase or catching a train.”

As a technology-centric company, Interswitch continues to align with brands that hold shared values to drive the evolution of payments across Africa and beyond. The integration with Google Pay is a pivotal step towards transforming the online payment landscape, enabling businesses and consumers to thrive in an interconnected digital world.

Businesses and consumers eager to experience the benefits of Google Pay on the Interswitch Payment Gateway can sign up on the Interswitch platform today.