iPhone 16 Review: Apple's Entry-Level Flagship with Camera and AI Enhancements
A detailed look at the iPhone 16’s features, camera updates, and future AI potential.
The iPhone 16 is Apple’s latest entry-level offering in its flagship smartphone lineup, priced around NIS 4,000. Although the cost is still high for an entry model, it’s a more accessible alternative to the Pro models, which start at over NIS 5,000. This model is geared toward users who seek solid performance without the premium features of the Pro variants.
Design and Usability
One of the most notable design updates in the iPhone 16 is a new camera layout. Apple has introduced a “Camera Control” button, intended to mimic a traditional camera feel, especially when held horizontally. Positioned on the device’s right side, this button allows users to launch the camera with a single tap and snap photos instantly—even when the phone is locked. Additional functionalities include swiping to adjust zoom, double-tapping for camera settings, and holding for video recording. While useful, the Camera Control feature is not a game-changer but provides added convenience.
Display: Clear but Lacks a Higher Refresh Rate
The iPhone 16 sports a 6.1-inch OLED display, similar in size to its predecessor, with vibrant colors, HDR support, and peak brightness reaching 2,000 nits in direct sunlight. Despite these strengths, the screen is capped at a 60Hz refresh rate, which limits the smoothness seen on higher-end models. The iPhone 16 also lacks an Always-On Display, though it does feature the Dynamic Island—a small interactive area that displays contextual information like music playback or navigation details.
Processor and Heat Management
Apple has made a notable leap by equipping the iPhone 16 with the A18 processor, a two-generation improvement over the A16 Bionic in the iPhone 15. This upgrade is intended to enhance both speed and efficiency and is expected to support upcoming AI functionalities that Apple promises in future updates. The new processor also contributes to better battery performance and heat management, allowing the device to handle tasks more smoothly. Additional hardware upgrades include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support. While the stereo speakers are adequate, they do not deliver particularly high volume levels.
Camera: Solid Performance with Some Limitations
The iPhone 16’s camera system comprises two lenses: a 48-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. While photos deliver good quality, they do not surpass higher-end models. Portraits, however, retain excellent detail, and night mode performs well, producing images with minimal noise. The 2x optical zoom is effective, though the camera has slight issues with fast-moving subjects. The 12-megapixel front camera captures clear selfies in daylight but struggles with low-light conditions, resulting in grainier images.
Battery: Strong Performance Throughout the Day
With a 3,561 mAh battery, a slight upgrade over the previous model, the iPhone 16 can last a full day with average usage. Tests show the battery enduring from early morning until late evening with approximately 26% remaining after nearly five hours of screen time. The device supports 30W wired charging and 25W MagSafe wireless charging when connected to a 30W or higher charger.
Pricing and Additional Services
The iPhone 16 starts at NIS 4,050 for the 128GB version, with the 256GB model priced at NIS 4,600 through the Partner network. Partner also offers a repair service for iPhone users, including a “Platinum” tier for flagship devices covering screen, back repairs, and other issues like audio, charging, and GPS without additional charges.
Conclusion
The iPhone 16 delivers a practical Camera Control button, the Action Button for customizable functions, an efficient A18 processor for AI capabilities in future updates, and an all-day battery life. Although lacking a high refresh rate display, the iPhone 16 offers impressive brightness and ease of use, especially for those upgrading from older models. For users seeking Apple’s latest without the Pro model’s premium, the iPhone 16 is a robust option.