iPhone 16 Review: Best Standard iPhone in Years, but Camera Performance Remains Uncertain
iPhone 16 Review: Best Non-Pro iPhone In A While
The iPhone 16 marks a significant design shift, being the first standard iPhone to look noticeably different from its predecessors since the iPhone 12. It offers a host of features and improvements, making it a compelling option for those who don’t want to splurge on the Pro models.
Key Highlights:
Design and Display: The iPhone 16 showcases a refreshed design with new, vibrant colors. It also boasts a more refined build quality that brings it closer to the Pro models, though it still features a 60Hz refresh rate screen, unlike the ProMotion display available on the iPhone 16 Pro.
Performance: Powered by the A18 chipset, the iPhone 16 offers a considerable leap in performance over the iPhone 15. This two-generation jump in silicon means better AI processing capabilities, faster app loading times, and improved efficiency. The iPhone 16 can also run advanced AI features like Apple Intelligence, which offers generative AI functions for emails, notes, and more.
Camera Features: A major upgrade is the inclusion of the Camera Control button, previously exclusive to the Pro models. This button allows users to easily access camera functions, and with its 48MP camera, the iPhone 16 delivers impressive photo quality, including macro capabilities and spatial media capture. However, it lacks a telephoto lens, limiting zoom capabilities compared to the Pro models.
Battery and Charging: The iPhone 16 offers improved battery life and faster wireless charging, thanks to MagSafe enhancements. However, it still supports slower 20W wired charging and is stuck with USB 2.0 speeds, which may disappoint users expecting faster data transfers.
Verdict:
The iPhone 16 closes the gap between the standard and Pro iPhone models more than ever before, making it an excellent choice for users who want premium features without the Pro price tag. However, some trade-offs remain, such as the 60Hz display and lack of telephoto lens. Overall, it’s the best non-Pro iPhone in years, offering significant performance and camera improvements that justify its price.