The iPhone 16 represents a significant leap for Apple, enhancing its standard smartphone model with an array of new features. Our comprehensive review of the iPhone 16 uncovers the exciting additions such as a new camera, Action button, and a Camera Control button, positioning it as an exceptional device even when compared to the iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Each of these models stands out as some of the best iPhones to date, with potential to become even more impressive as Apple rolls out new Intelligence features post-launch. These enhancements could position the iPhone 16 as a top contender among AI-enabled smartphones.
Here, we compile all the essential details you need to know about the iPhone 16, from its cost to its innovative hardware and software features.
Essential Details on the iPhone 16
- Shipping starts on September 20
- Price begins at $799 / £799 / AU$1,399
- Features the Action button from the iPhone 15 Pro
- Introduces a new dedicated Camera Control button
- Camera Control can instantly provide environmental details
- Powered by the new A18 chipset
- Offers up to 512GB of storage
- Includes 8GB of RAM for advanced Apple Intelligence operations
- Apple Intelligence enhancements to start rolling out in October
- Features vertically aligned cameras for enhanced spatial video capability
- Runs on iOS 18
- Available in Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black
- Supports fast charging up to 45W, significantly quicker than its predecessor
Cost, Availability, and Pre-Order Details for the iPhone 16
- Starting price: $799 / £799 / AU$1,399
- Shipping begins on September 20
The iPhone 16 was unveiled at Apple’s ‘It’s Glowtime’ event on Monday, September 9, with pre-orders kicking off immediately and the device set to be available in stores from Friday, September 20. For early deals, visit our dedicated iPhone 16 deals page.
The base model with 128GB storage is priced at $799 / £799 / AU$1,399, with the 256GB model at $899 / £899 / AU$1,599, and the 512GB model at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,949.
For context, these prices mirror those of the iPhone 15 at launch in the US and UK, with the Australian market seeing a reduction of AU$100 compared to the iPhone 15. Full pricing details for the iPhone 16 are outlined below.
Pre-orders are currently open, though delivery times for some models are beginning to extend, likely due to higher demand compared to the iPhone 15 at its launch.
Specifications of the iPhone 16
Below, we detail the crucial specifications of the iPhone 16.
Available Colors for iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 is available in Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black.
For comparison, the iPhone 15 was launched in Yellow, Blue, Pink, Green, and Black, indicating a refresh in color options this year.
What’s New with the iPhone 16?
- Introduction of the Action Button
- New Camera Control button
- Advanced A18 chipset
- Upcoming Apple Intelligence features set for October
- Re-aligned cameras for spatial video recording
Apart from the newly aligned vertical camera lenses designed for spatial video recording, the iPhone 16 adopts the versatile Action button from the iPhone 15 Pro and introduces a brand-new Camera Control button, maintaining a strong resemblance with the iPhone 15 in other respects.
These enhancements, while substantial, are just part of the appeal. The real advancements are found inside the device.
The A18 chipset powers the new model, marking a significant upgrade from the A16 Bionic chipset used in the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus. This is a notable shift as Apple typically uses its previous-generation chipsets for its new standard models; however, this year, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus both feature this new, exclusive chipset.
Despite initial benchmarks suggesting a modest performance improvement, the A18 chipset is expected to enhance privacy features, preventing malicious apps from disabling camera and microphone indicators.
We’ve also learned that the iPhone 16 includes 8GB of RAM, an increase from the 6GB in the iPhone 15, necessary for the new Apple Intelligence features rolling out in October. These features, including a ChatGPT-powered Siri, text summarization, and image generation, are set to position the iPhone 16 alongside competitors like the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S24.
Although the exact battery size hasn’t been disclosed, Apple promises a significant improvement in battery life. With the iPhone 15 rated for 20 hours of video playback, the new model’s battery capacity is promising.
The iPhone 16 also supports up to 25W of wireless MagSafe charging—nearly double the previous limit—and 45W of wired charging, which is over 50% faster than the previous generation. These improvements are a testament to Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience.
Returning to the Camera Control button, this new feature is a major update across all iPhone 16 models. Located on the right side of the device, below the power button, it functions as a physical and capacitive button. A single press launches the camera app, another press captures a photo, and holding it down starts recording a video. Additionally, the button supports various gesture controls, allowing users to zoom and adjust exposure with simple finger movements.
The incorporation of the established Action button alongside the new Camera Control button could make the iPhone 16 (or at least the iPhone 16 Pro) one of the best camera phones available.
Expert Analysis
Is the iPhone 16 worth the upgrade? Essentially, this model is aimed at users who seek the latest Apple Intelligence features without the higher cost associated with the Pro models. While similar in design to the iPhone 15, there’s more beneath the surface that merits consideration.
Our Managing Editor of News, Jacob Krol, has tested the iPhone 16 and concludes: “The distinction between standard and Pro iPhone models is diminishing, as the standard iPhone 16 emerges as a powerful yet affordable option packed with new features.
“The swift performance of the A18 chipset, coupled with two impressive cameras and the innovative Camera Control button, makes the iPhone 16 an appealing choice for those not needing the Pro model.”
These are significant positives. It’s somewhat disappointing that Apple retained a 60Hz display and that the rollout of Apple Intelligence features will only happen after the device is shipped. However, for those keen to stay competitive in the AI space, the iPhone 16 is a compelling option.
If you’re less interested in virtual assistance and waiting for more substantial iPhone design changes, then the latest standard model may not seem essential if you already own an iPhone 15. However, for those with older iPhone models, the iPhone 16 is definitely worth considering.
I am Sofia, a tech-savvy journalist and passionate member of the “Jason Deegan” team. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the latest technological advancements and loved sharing my knowledge with others.