Your Complete Guide to the iPhone 16 Features

Due to launch in Autumn 2024, the Apple iPhone 16 models reportedly feature several exciting new functions that seamlessly narrow the gap between the standard and Pro devices.

Rumoured features across the entire line-up include design upgrades, better battery life, improved cameras, and a whole new type of software with the launch of Apple Intelligence. But what exactly can you expect if you're thinking of investing in one of the four models that should be released later in the year?

Find out how Apple plans to upgrade the iPhone Pro, Pro Max, regular, and Plus models for their all-new 16 range to provide exceptional functionality and design for this widely-anticipated launch.

Design

Some of the new iPhone 16 models are likely to see the first size increases in years, including the Pro and Pro Max. The 16 Pro will be upgraded to 6.3 inches, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max will become 6.9 inches, making them the biggest iPhones to date.

However, other iPhone 16 models will remain the same size as the iPhone 15, including the regular and Plus devices. Thinner bezels may increase the display size for larger screens, though again, this could only be restricted to the iPhone 16 Pro models.

Apple also plans to bring black classic colour options for the iPhone 16 Pro, such as silver and space black, while adding new colours such as rose, along with white and purple for the regular models.

Performance & Specs

Although the new iPhone may feature new A-series chips, built on the latest N3E 3-nanometre node, some rumours suggest that Apple is keeping the same A17 Pro Chip as the iPhone 15 Pro models. 

Similarly, both the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models could maintain the same 60Hz refresh rate as the iPhone 15, which is a slight disappointment for those hoping to find smoother scrolling with their new device. However, they're likely to support WiFi 6E, which offers faster internet speeds greater than 1Gbps, or even WiFi 7 for the Pro models.

Also carried over from the iPhone 15 Pro to all iPhone 16 models is the action button. This is located above the volume keys and replaces the mute switch to change the ringer settings on your phone. It can also be used to launch the camera, turn on the torch, trigger Do Not Disturb, and pairs well with the Shortcuts app.

The Display panel is rumoured to be made from an OLED material set designed by Samsung, which replaces blue fluorescent technology with phosphorescence technology. This will enhance the iPhone's power efficiency and make it 20% brighter than previous models.

Another power benefit of the iPhone 16 is the larger battery size, which could offer a longer battery life of over 30 hours. Plus, this model is powered by iOS 18, which was previewed at the Worldwide Developer Conference 2024 and includes updates to the Photos app, improvements to Maps and Notes, and allows users to completely customise their home screens.

Camera Layout

Compared with the older diagonal lenses, the iPhone 16 offers a new vertical lens camera setup for the standard models to make the device compatible with Apple's Vision Pro headset and shoot spatial video.

While the actual cameras are likely to stay the same, including a 48MP main camera and 12MP selfie, telephoto (on Pro models), and ultrawide lenses, both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pro models could incorporate Tetraprism 5x optical zoom. An upgraded ultrawide camera may also be incorporated into the Pro models, thanks to a second 48MP sensor that provides a more vibrant image quality and improved low-light performance.

The dedicated camera Capture button is a completely new feature designed to help you seamlessly take photos and videos. This button enables the phone to work like a digital camera with a shutter, which detects varying pressure levels for focusing and capturing images.

Apple Intelligence Features

Apple Intelligence is an AI platform built into Apple devices that operate on the iOS 18 developer beta system and with an A17 chip or later, including the iPhone 15 and 16 series.

This platform runs on Apple silicon chipsets and processors to build on the iPhone's current AI features, including Siri, with a variety of new tools that generate images, enhance productivity, and even allow you to create personalised emojis.

It also has a large focus on user privacy with Private Cloud Computer, software integrated into the iPhone that provides end-to-end encryption and doesn't store any personal data.

Some key Apple Intelligence features that could be integrated into the iPhone 16 series include:

• Smart Reply: This writing tool will conduct a thorough analysis of your messages or emails and come up with a quick reply that addresses all key points. It can also proofread drafts and help to improve your wording and tone.
• Reduce Interruptions: Summarise your notifications thanks to an all-new focus feature that puts important messages and phone calls at the top of the stack.
• Genmoji: Create emojis that reflect your physical traits or select a photo from your library to generate a matching Genmoji of a friend.
• Image Playground: Produce original images based on a suggested concept, description, or a person from your Photos library and share with friends.
• ChatGPT: OpenAI's ChatGPT software is integrated into Siri through Apple Intelligence and can answer a wide range of user questions.
• Personal Context Awareness: Siri can now use information available on your device to take actions that are more personal to your preferences, such as locating specific details from your messages or emails.

The release date for Apple Intelligence is likely to be delayed until October 2024. This means that it may not be ready for the iPhone 16 launch, so users will have to wait until iOS 18.1 to make the most of these Apple Intelligence features.

When Will the iPhone 16 Be Available?

The iPhone 16 series is rumoured to be launching in September 2024 if Apple sticks to the current schedule without delays. The standard model is expected to be priced around $800, while the Pro models will likely cost around the $1,000 mark.

While many of these features haven't yet been fully confirmed, it's clear that the iPhone 16 models offer a significant step up from the iPhone 15, with larger screens, faster WiFi speeds, better battery capacity, and of course the brand-new AI features.

Whether you decide to make a new purchase or stick with your current iPhone, one accessory that's essential for all devices is a shockproof phone case that protects your device from drops and falls.

At Ghostek, our collection of cases for the iPhone 15 series and beyond are designed to provide premium protection for your device, including everything from military-grade materials and complete waterproofing. Choose your ideal case today from a variety of styles, such as models with crystal clear scratch-proof backs, those featuring built-in wallets, and more.