Comparing Apple's iPhone 16 and iPhone 15: What's New and Worthwhile?

Apple’s latest entry-level iPhone 16 has made a notable debut, positioning itself alongside the iPhone 15 from 2023 with a $100 discount. The iPhone 16 introduces some new hardware upgrades and Apple’s first integrated AI suite, “Apple Intelligence,” exclusive to iOS 18.1 and unavailable on the iPhone 15. Despite these advancements, the real-world performance difference between the two models remains subtle for everyday users.

The iPhone 16 features a new A18 processor, outperforming the A16 Bionic chip in the iPhone 15 by a significant margin in benchmarks. In daily usage, however, both models perform similarly, with only minor differences in app loading speeds and gaming. The iPhone 16’s support for ray tracing does enhance lighting quality in compatible games, but the impact remains subtle on a small screen.

Physically, the iPhone 16’s display incorporates a second-generation Ceramic Shield that Apple claims is “50 percent tougher” than the one used on the iPhone 15. Another subtle but practical change is the iPhone 16’s lower minimum brightness level, allowing for comfortable usage in dim settings. The screens are otherwise identical: both are 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED displays with the same resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and 2,000-nit peak brightness.

In terms of design, Apple has introduced color changes and a rearranged camera layout with the iPhone 16. The rear cameras are now vertically aligned within a pill-shaped frame, contrasting with the square “island” on the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 also adds an “Action button” and “Camera Control button,” bringing more functionality through customizable shortcuts and camera settings access, missing on the iPhone 15.

Camera-wise, both models share similar core specs: 48MP main cameras capable of 2x optical-quality zoom, 24MP default photos, and smart technologies like Deep Fusion, Photonic Engine, and Smart HDR 5. However, the iPhone 16 introduces additional “Photographic Styles” that can be applied post-shot for a more flexible editing experience. The iPhone 16 also offers macro photography via an ultrawide camera with autofocus, previously available only on Pro models, enabling extreme close-up shots.

Battery life remains nearly identical between the two, with both models yielding strong performance. The iPhone 16 introduces faster 25W wireless MagSafe charging, a welcome improvement over the iPhone 15’s 15W. Wired charging speeds are identical for both models, as is data transfer through their USB-C ports.

A standout feature for the iPhone 16 is its compatibility with Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI suite exclusive to this model and the iPhone 15 Pro lineup. Apple Intelligence includes features like email summarization, voice-activated photo sharing, and general AI-driven assistance. Although these capabilities are promising, they are still evolving, and some, like the email summary tool, require further refinement. Apple has hinted at expanding Apple Intelligence with upcoming iOS updates, which could enhance its utility in the future.

For those deciding between these models, the iPhone 16 provides valuable additions for a relatively modest price difference. If you’re upgrading from an older device, the iPhone 16 represents an excellent investment, particularly with available carrier deals. The iPhone 15, however, remains a solid choice, especially if your budget is restricted, and it still includes notable features like the Dynamic Island and high-megapixel camera. Both models provide high-quality experiences, but the iPhone 16’s upgrades make it more future-proof and aligned with Apple’s forward-looking enhancements.