Apple is widely expected to unveil the new iPhone 16 series within hours. The main attraction is expected to be Apple Intelligence, an AI platform for the iPhone 16. (It is already available for testing as part of an iOS 18.1 developer beta on last year's iPhone 15 Pro.) However, hardware upgrades to the cameras, display, and other features are also expected.
The most significant physical change is the larger screen size on the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models. The Pro model will have a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max will have a 6.9-inch screen, marking the first size increase in many years. The standard iPhone 16 models will be the same size as their iPhone 15 counterparts.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models will receive minor design updates, such as new buttons. Despite these changes, the overall design will resemble the iPhone 15 series. One of the new features is the Action Button, which will be available on all iPhone 16 models, not just the Pro versions. Furthermore, adding a "Capture Button" is intended to make taking photos and videos more intuitive, functioning similarly to a digital camera's shutter release. It can detect different levels of pressure when focusing and capturing images.
Apple is planning a new vertical camera lens arrangement for the iPhone 16 models, which will differ from the previous diagonal lens setup. The new orientation allows the standard iPhone 16 models to record Spatial Video for the Vision Pro headset. In this article, we will discuss the future of technology and how it is leading the iPhone innovations.
Top Technologies Used in iPhone 16
People love to guess when the next phone is going to come out. The iPhone 16 PRO is especially popular and is expected to be Apple's next phone. This paragraph forecasts the iPhone 16 PRO's release date using historical trends for Apple's newest products. It also argues that the next iPhone (and all Apple products) will revolutionize mobile computing. This is the start of an educated guess about when the iPhone 16 PRO will be announced/released to the general public.
Design
Rumours about larger screen sizes are circulating about select iPhone 16 models. According to a report in the Korean publication Elec, select iPhone 16 models will use innovative screen technology, resulting in thinner bezels, the frame around the phone's screen. This development could result in a slightly larger screen area for some iPhone 16 models, but it's unclear which.
Apple has historically introduced display upgrades in its Pro line of products, with some trickling down to lower-cost models later. Display manufacturers reportedly introduced a novel border reduction structure technology, allowing for more compact control circuitry and, ultimately, slimmer bezels.
Colors
Rumours and reports on the potential colours for iPhone 16 models have varied greatly. One possible color scheme includes seven colours: blue, pink, yellow, green, black, white, and purple. However, noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts fewer options: black, green, pink, blue, and white, with no purple or yellow available.
The color-infused back glass on the iPhone 15 will carry over to the iPhone 16 series. The frosted finish on this rear glass layer will contrast with the color of the main frame. The iPhone 16's design updates include functional and aesthetic improvements, particularly in color options.
Dummy Models
Dummy models for the iPhone 16, based on leaked dimensions and specifications from Apple suppliers, shed light on the device's physical changes. These models provide an early look at the iPhone 16's size and design changes. The standard iPhone 16 models will have a vertical camera cutout rather than a diagonal arrangement as in previous generations.
The Pro versions will have a square camera bump with three lenses, similar to their predecessors. Furthermore, the Action Button is visible on the left side of all four dummy models, a feature from the iPhone 15 Pro.
Display Size
The larger displays will have a new aspect ratio of 16.6:9. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are expected to keep their current display sizes of 6.1 inches by 6.7 inches. Furthermore, there are expectations for future models, such as the Apple iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, in which the company may increase the screen size. Apple is expected to retain the display size and design of the iPhone 16 series, just as they did with the iPhone 15 series.
iPhone 15 screen sizes
- iPhone 15: 6.1 inches
- iPhone 15 Plus: 6.7 inches
- iPhone 15 Pro: 6.1 inches
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: 6.7 inches
Rumoured iPhone 16 screen sizes
- iPhone 16: 6.1 inches
- iPhone 16 Plus: 6.7 inches
- iPhone 16 Pro: 6.3 inches
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9 inches
Camera Setup
Apple's camera technology has evolved significantly recently, particularly for professional-grade models. Except for new features enabled by the latest chip and a redesigned camera layout, average consumer models are unlikely to receive significant enhancements. Apple is set to introduce a new design for the camera lenses in the iPhone 16 series, moving away from the previous diagonal lens configuration.
This new setup will allow standard iPhone 16 models to record spatial video for the Vision Pro headset.
The latest iPhone 16 Pro models could include a new 48-megapixel Ultra-Wide lens for better nighttime photos. That lens should work similarly to the main 48-megapixel Wide camera, combining data from multiple pixels into a single "superpixel." According to other leaks, the iPhone 16 Pro Max will have a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera with an eight-element hybrid lens made of glass and plastic and functional improvements to the telephoto and ultra-wide lenses.
This upgrade would improve image quality for wide-angle and macro photography, video resolution and portrait mode. The camera is an essential component of the iPhone and will play a significant role in the upcoming iPhone 16 series. In addition to hardware upgrades, Apple may introduce new AI features for capturing and editing photos.
Increased RAM and Storage Capacity
According to MacRumors analyst Joe Rossignol, the base model iPhone 16 and 16 Plus may increase RAM from 6GB to 8GB to handle the increased load from Apple Intelligence. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max already have 8GB of RAM, and it's unclear whether they'll get an upgrade to 10GB or 12GB.
Storage is also expected to be upgraded, with the current default capacity of 128GB increasing to 256 GB. Other rumours indicate that the Pro models of the iPhone 16 may support up to 2TB of storage. The last iPhones to receive an upgrade in RAM or minimum storage capacity were the 12 and 13, respectively. The iPhone 12 saw a 2GB RAM increase, bringing us to the current 6GB standard, while the 13 was the first to ship with 128GB of storage.
Pro Models:
- Starts at 128GB
- Up to 2TB for those needing extensive storage
Pro Models:
- Base storage likely at 128GB
- Higher capacity options available, albeit not hitting the 2TB mark
MagSafe
Changes to the MagSafe system in iPhone 16 models are expected to improve and slim down the alignment magnets. The new magnetic alignment will likely reduce the size of the magnetic ring used for MagSafe-compatible cases and accessories. These slimmer magnets may provide a sleeker design, ensuring that the MagSafe system remains as efficient as before. This can impact the production and design of future MagSafe cases, resulting in a more consistent user experience.
A Series Chips
Code in iOS 18 confirms that all four iPhone 16 models will use the same next-generation A18 chip, but Apple may still differentiate between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. The iPhone 16 models may use A18 chips with fewer GPU cores (either binned or disabled), while the iPhone 16 Pro may use a more powerful GPU. The chips may even have different A18 and A18 Pro names. The next-generation A18 chip planned for the iPhone 16 Pro models may feature an upgraded Neural Engine with "significantly" more cores, allowing for improved AI/machine learning performance. it is expected to have a larger die size.
Upgradations on Siri
The latest iPhone model is expected to include a significantly improved version of Siri, capable of performing tasks comparable to ChatGPT's. Siri is expected to be able to perform more complex tasks, such as summarizing documents, providing detailed responses to questions, proofreading, transferring notes to different folders, sending or removing emails, accessing a specific article in Apple News, and emailing a URL. The updated system will allow the assistant to manage and steer an iPhone or iPad accurately.
Buttons
Action Button
The upcoming iPhone 16 models will include the Action Button, previously seen on the iPhone 15 Pro. This multifunctional button replaces the traditional mute switch and offers various features.
This button allows users to activate the flashlight, turn on the camera, launch a shortcut, turn a Focus mode on or off, use Translate, and toggle Silent Mode. Its inclusion in the entire iPhone 16 lineup aims to increase the versatility and functionality of the standard models while mirroring the features found in the Pro versions.
Capture Button
The iPhone 16 series will also feature a new Capture Button on the same side as the Power button. The 5G mmWave antenna has been relocated, so this button now takes its place. Unlike the Action Button, the Capture Button is expected to be mechanical and responsive to pressure and touch. Users can zoom by swiping left or right, focus with a light press, and begin recording with a firmer press.
This feature will be available in all four iPhone 16 models, significantly improving the photo and video capture experience.
Battery
The iPhone 16 lineup promises significant advancements in battery technology. Recent rumours suggest that the Pro models will use stacked battery technology. This innovation, which is commonly found in electric vehicles and medical devices, has the potential to increase the capacity and lifespan of smartphones and significantly improve battery performance.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16 Pro will support 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging. If these enhancements materialize, they will outperform current iPhone models, which only support up to 27W wired and 15W MagSafe charging.
An updated stainless steel casing could allow up to a 10% density increase in the iPhone 16 series batteries.
This change could result in longer battery life, but it is unlikely to be implemented in all models.
European Union regulations, which go into effect in 2025, will require batteries that users can replace with readily available tools. Apple is preparing for this by implementing a new battery replacement method on at least one iPhone 16 variant. This new approach would involve encasing the battery in metal rather than foil. A low voltage of electricity would allow for easy removal without adhesives, simplifying repairs.
In terms of battery capacity, the iPhone 16 series seems to benefit from incremental improvements:
| Model | Iphone 15 Lineup (2023) | Iphone 16 Lineup (2024) | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3,349 mAh | 3,561 mAh | +6% |
| Plus | 4,383 mAh | 4,006 mAh | _9% |
| Pro | 3,274 mAh | 3,355 mAh | +2.5% |
| Pro Max | 4,422 mAh | 4.676 mAh | +5% |
Wi-Fi 7
Wi-Fi 7 can operate with 320Mhz channels and is equipped with 4K quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), resulting in throughputs up to 2.4 times faster than Wi-Fi 6, and it has the same six antennas. The next-generation Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi 7, is expected to have a quicker top data transmission speed, lower latency, and improved network dependability. While it is true that the initial rollout of Wi-Fi 7 may only be limited to iPhone 16 Pro models, the more standard iPhone 16 models did receive an update to Wi-Fi 6E, the 6GHz frequency band. Currently, Wi-Fi 6E is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro.
Display Technology
The iPhone 16 lineup is expected to include OLED panels with micro-lens technology, improving brightness and power efficiency. Micro-lens arrays (MLA) are a pattern of billions of tiny lenses within a display that reduce internal reflections and thus increase perceived brightness without consuming more power.
Improved materials in OLED displays will improve the power efficiency of the iPhone 16 models. Apple plans to use Border Reduction Structure (BRS) technology in some models, allowing for slimmer bezels. BRS accomplishes this by compacting the circuitry under the screen, allowing the display to have thinner bezels while maintaining performance.
The potential for slimmer bezels may not be uniform across all iPhone 16 models; it is currently unclear if this enhancement will be exclusive to the Pro variants. There are also indications of minor changes to the Face ID system, though the specific changes are unknown. According to recent reports, Apple intends to overhaul Face ID, significantly fueling speculation about future improvements.
5G modem chips
The latest iPhone 16 Pro models could include Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 modem, which promises faster and more effective 5G internet. Qualcomm claims that the X75 improves carrier stacking, and the integrated sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G transceiver takes up 25% less space on the circuit board and consumes 20% less energy. The X75 is designed to support the "5G Advanced" standard, with AI and machine learning upgrades to improve 5G performance.
iPhone 16 is a significant advancement in the iPhone series, including camera enhancements and A-series chips to upgrades in Siri and other AI-powered capabilities. The iPhone 16 is expected to be released in September this year.
USB-C Port
Apple's iPhone 15 lineup will feature USB-C technology. This change is expected to continue with iPhone 16 models as well. This marks transitioning from the Lightning connector to a more versatile and widely used port.
Pricing
Component costs for the standard iPhone 15 models increased by 16% over the iPhone 14 models. Although Apple initially absorbed these higher production costs for the iPhone 15 series, they may result in an increase in iPhone 16 prices to prevent a drop in overall revenue.
iPhone 16: Starting around $799
Pro Models: Prices start higher, reflecting their advanced features and larger storage capacities
No iPhone 16 Ultra.
According to recent leaks, Apple may release a high-end iPhone 16 Ultra alongside its usual variants, such as the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This Ultra model is rumoured to include significant upgrades such as advanced camera technology and a larger display, possibly with a portless design.
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
| iphone 16 | Standard features |
| Iphone 16 plus | Large display, standard features |
| Iphone 16 pro | Pro camera system |
| Iphone 16 pro max | Large display, pro camera system |
IPhone 16 Launch Date
The iPhone 16 models are expected to be released in September 2024. The launch will succeed the 2023 iPhone 15 lineup.
How is it Leading the Future with its Innovations?
Apple's plans for future iPhone models indicate significant enhancements in various areas. One anticipated improvement is adding ProMotion technology to standard iPhone models beginning in 2025. This technology, which supports refresh rates of up to 120Hz, is currently limited to higher-end "Pro" models.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max, expected to be released in 2025, may include a 48-megapixel Telephoto lens designed for the Vision Pro headset. According to analyst Jeff Pu, this model will most likely include an Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip, though details on Vision Pro compatibility are limited.
While earlier rumours suggested that the iPhone 16 Pro models would include under-display Face ID, this innovation now appears to not arrive until 2025 or later.
Under-display Face ID will increase usable display space by eliminating the need for Dynamic Island, but a camera cutout will still be required.
Under-Display Face ID and Camera Technology Timeline:
iPhone 16: No under-display Face ID.
iPhone 17: Possible introduction of under-display Face ID and a 24-megapixel front camera.
iPhone 18: Both under-display Face ID and front-facing camera, with a cutout-free design.
Another rumoured feature for the 2025 iPhone 17 is a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, which is expected to significantly improve image quality and low-light performance. In addition, the new iPhone models will most likely feature an anti-reflective display with a "super hard" layer that is more scratch-resistant than the current Ceramic Shield.
Looking ahead to the 2026 iPhone 18, Apple intends to incorporate under-display Face ID and under-display front-facing camera technology, potentially resulting in a full-display design with no visible camera hardware cuts.
These advancements, supported by research from analysts such as Jeff Pu and Ming-Chi Kuo, promise more innovative and refined iPhone experiences. With the potential release of iOS 18 alongside these future models, users can expect even more seamless and feature-rich interactions.
Will the iPhone 16 be foldable?
Probably not. Almost every major phone manufacturer, from Google to Oppo to OnePlus and Samsung, has released several generations of bendable handsets. Still, Apple has remained silent on the possibility of a foldable iPhone. According to a report published last Tuesday by The Information, Apple is developing a "clamshell" design iPhone that could be available as early as 2026.
