iPhone 16 Review: Smart Innovation Beyond Intelligence
Apple released four new iPhone models in September 2024, with the standard iPhone 16 expected to be the most popular. While the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max come with advanced features and the iPhone 16 Plus offers a larger screen, the standard iPhone 16 packs powerful capabilities that will meet the needs of most users. The key updates across all four models include a new camera control button and the capacity to run Apple’s forthcoming AI features, powered by the A18 chip in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. This marks a significant improvement from the A16 chip used in previous models, making the iPhone 16 the most affordable option to access these new AI capabilities.
Even without the new AI features, the iPhone 16 is an impressive device. It boasts a 48MP main camera capable of working with the ultra-wide camera to create 3D images and videos, viewable on the Apple Vision Pro headset. Its OLED display is brighter than previous models, and it comes with longer battery life and emergency satellite SOS capabilities. Additionally, the iPhone 16 supports 25W wireless charging with MagSafe or USB-C and offers seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, including the new OS X Sequoia’s iPhone mirroring.
Whether upgrading to the iPhone 16 makes sense depends largely on your current device. For users with the iPhone 15, the differences may seem minor aside from the AI features. However, for those with older models, the iPhone 16 provides a significant upgrade. The iPhone 16 is priced at £799/$799, the same as the iPhone 15 at launch. The base model comes with 128GB of storage, while 256GB and 512GB options are available at higher prices. For those who prefer a bigger screen, the iPhone 16 Plus, which offers a 6.7-inch display, costs an additional £100/$100.
A standout feature of the iPhone 16 is its ability to run Apple Intelligence, supported by the new A18 chip. These AI features, scheduled for release in late October in the US and December in the UK, include advanced writing tools that can rewrite, proofread, or summarize content. Apple Intelligence also improves the Mail app by helping to generate smart replies and organize emails more efficiently.
Design-wise, the iPhone 16 is similar to its predecessor, the iPhone 15, with only minor differences like a slightly wider SIM tray and vertically stacked rear cameras. The aerospace-grade aluminum body and Ceramic Shield glass provide durability, while the device maintains an IP68 rating for water resistance. The display offers excellent brightness, adjustable between 1 nit for dark conditions and 2000 nits in bright sunlight, although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models. The fixed 60Hz refresh rate means it doesn’t support an always-on display.
The dual rear camera setup on the iPhone 16 includes a 48MP main camera and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. The main camera delivers better detail and exposure by combining images from the 48MP and 12MP sensors. The ultra-wide camera, while not upgraded to a 48MP version like the Pro models, performs well. Spatial (3D) images and videos, though niche, are a highlight feature of the iPhone 16, with impressive results when viewed on the Apple Vision Pro.
In terms of performance, the iPhone 16 features the A18 chip, which provides a 30% faster CPU and a 40% faster GPU than the A16, making it highly capable for gaming and AI-driven tasks. Battery life has also improved, offering up to 22 hours of video playback. With 25W charging support, a 50% charge can be achieved in under 30 minutes.
The iPhone 16 is an excellent choice for those with older devices, offering substantial upgrades in camera technology, performance, and future-ready AI features. For users wanting a larger screen, the iPhone 16 Plus is a good alternative. However, for those looking for more advanced features like a 120Hz refresh rate and a third camera, the iPhone 15 Pro, now available at discounted prices, could be a better option.