The latest flagship iPhone 15 series shows stronger performance on 5G networks than the previous year’s models and several Samsung foldables, according to a study by Ookla. The findings highlight a clear leap in download speeds across the iPhone 15 lineup, with notable regional differences that leave Samsung foldables slightly behind in most markets. In many regions, the iPhone 15 lead emerges in download velocity, while South Korea and Vietnam still show a stronger edge for the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. A striking example from the data is that the iPhone 15 Plus achieved a 54 percent faster download rate than the iPhone 14 Plus, underscoring the performance gains embedded in the new generation. This comparative growth reflects a meaningful upgrade in the overall speed profile of the iPhone 15 series relative to its predecessor, reinforcing its position in markets prioritizing fast 5G experiences. Source: Ookla.
Samsung’s lineup also demonstrated competitive 5G download speeds, with the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 showing improvements over their predecessors by approximately 15 percent and 10 percent respectively. Nonetheless, these gains do not surpass the entire iPhone 15 family in terms of overall speed performance, according to the same Ookla assessment. The data indicate that while Samsung’s latest folding devices are faster than before, they remain edged out by the iPhone 15 series in many regions. Source: Ookla.
Experts based their conclusions on measurements collected from 13 regions around the world, comparing the latest generation flagship iPhone devices with Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Flip models. The report notes that the speeds cited reflect tests conducted during the third quarter of 2023, providing a snapshot of the early performance landscape for premium smartphones on 5G networks. The analysis helps illustrate how hardware choices and modem technologies translate into real-world download performance across diverse networks and locales. Source: Ookla.
The study also sheds light on regional dynamics that can influence consumer choice, including carrier strategies, spectrum allocations, and network optimization practices that affect peak download speeds. While the iPhone 15 series leads in many regions, certain markets continue to favor older Pro models or Samsung devices, underscoring the importance of local network conditions and device configurations in determining overall 5G performance. These insights are valuable for buyers weighing speed as a key criterion in selecting a premium smartphone. Source: Ookla.
For readers who previously relied on macOS discs for software updates or system installations, the report hints at evolving distribution channels and the importance of staying aligned with official sources and supported upgrade paths to ensure optimal performance across devices. The ongoing shift toward faster connectivity highlights how critical it is for users to consider both hardware capabilities and network environments when evaluating the value of newer smartphone generations. Source: Ookla.