iPhone 16 Review: Enhanced Buttons and Speed for Apple's Standard Model

Oct 18, 2024 Apple Camera

Apple’s latest iPhone 16 breaks the recent trend of removing buttons from smartphones, introducing two new controls on its exterior. It also boasts a significant boost in chip performance and an extended two-day battery life. The iPhone 16, the smallest and most affordable model in the series, is priced starting at £799 (€959/$799/A$1,399). It offers many of the positive features of Apple’s phones but with fewer advanced elements compared to the Pro models.

At first glance, the iPhone 16 appears similar to its predecessors, with a familiar aluminum and glass build, weighing 170g. It retains a 6.1-inch screen size, similar to previous models, and while the Pro models have larger screens, the display on the standard iPhone 16 maintains the same brightness and clarity as the iPhone 15. However, it continues to use a 60Hz refresh rate, making motion on the screen less smooth compared to faster displays available in other models. It also lacks the always-on display feature found in Pro models.

A notable physical upgrade in this model is the introduction of two new buttons. The first is the action button, borrowed from the iPhone 15 Pro, which replaces the traditional mute switch. This button can be customized to perform a variety of functions, such as turning on the flashlight, switching focus modes, or activating shortcuts. The second is a new camera control button, also present in the 16 Pro, which allows users to quickly access the camera, zoom, adjust settings, and take photos.

The iPhone 16 operates on iOS 18 but is not equipped with Apple’s anticipated AI features, which are expected to arrive later with the iOS 18.1 update in certain regions.

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED)
  • Processor: Apple A18
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
  • Operating system: iOS 18
  • Camera: 48MP main camera + 12MP ultrawide, 12MP front-facing camera
  • Connectivity: 5G, wifi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, Satellite
  • Water resistance: IP68 (6 meters for 30 minutes)
  • Dimensions: 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm
  • Weight: 170g

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by the new A18 chip, which is 30% faster than its predecessor, the iPhone 16 delivers a noticeable improvement in performance. The enhanced chip, paired with improved power efficiency, extends the battery life to over 48 hours on a single charge under typical usage conditions. Charging via USB-C, the phone can reach 80% battery in just 53 minutes with a 30W charger.

Sustainability

Apple continues its sustainability efforts with the iPhone 16. The device uses more than 30% recycled materials, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, and lithium. Apple offers trade-in programs and recycling services for old devices. The phone is designed to be durable, with screen glass that is claimed to be 50% tougher than in previous models. The battery is designed to last for over 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity.

Camera

The iPhone 16’s camera system includes a 48MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, delivering strong performance across various lighting conditions. The new camera control button offers an intuitive way to switch between cameras, adjust zoom, and control other settings. The ultrawide lens now features autofocus, improving image quality in low-light environments, and enabling a macrophotography mode for capturing detailed close-up shots. Photographic styles, which allow for advanced filter-like adjustments to images, add creative flexibility for users.

However, the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens limits its zoom capabilities compared to competitors in the same price range.

Price Comparison

  • iPhone 16: £799 (€959/$799)
  • iPhone 16 Plus: £899
  • iPhone 16 Pro: £999
  • iPhone 16 Pro Max: £1,199
  • Google Pixel 9 Pro: £999
  • Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: £1,249
  • Fairphone 5: £499

Verdict

The iPhone 16 doesn’t introduce major design changes but incorporates several valuable updates. The action button is a versatile addition, while the camera control button enhances ease of use for photography enthusiasts. The camera system performs well, though the absence of a telephoto lens and faster screen could be disappointing for some users. With its faster chip, solid battery life, and enhanced features, the iPhone 16 remains a reliable and long-lasting choice, particularly for those upgrading from older models.

Pros: Fast performance, good dual camera with macro mode, compact size, action and camera control buttons, USB-C, long battery life, strong software support, Face ID. Cons: No telephoto camera, slower screen compared to competition, no always-on display, similar design to previous models.

Apple Camera
Next
Previous