Earlier this week, Apple unveiled its latest series of smartphones at the 2024 iPhone 16 launch event. The announcement featured four new models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The previous year’s significant design update included the adoption of a USB-C charging port. However, this year all four models have introduced a new, multi-function capacitive button on the side. Another essential update is the introduction of the A18 and A18 Pro chips, which are designed to support Apple’s new suite of Intelligence features, including the newly announced Visual Intelligence.
Reporters at Cupertino were able to preview the devices firsthand. Detailed reviews of Apple’s latest offerings will follow. For those eager to acquire the new iPhone 16, pre-orders are now open, with shipping dates starting on September 20.
The iPhone 16 series, which includes the standard iPhone 16 and the larger iPhone 16 Plus, is equipped with the A18 chip. This chip promises to deliver performance comparable to desktop computers and supports Apple’s new Intelligence features like Private Cloud Compute, generative emojis, and enhanced photo search capabilities. These features are scheduled to roll out next month. Additionally, the new Action button has been introduced, which replaces the mute switch and can be customized to perform various functions, such as taking a photo or starting a voice memo.
Moreover, the phones feature a new capacitive, force-sensitive side button known as the Camera Control, which can launch the camera, snap pictures, and adjust settings. This button will also play a key role in Apple’s Visual Intelligence features set to be released later this year.
The iPhone 16 supports a 6.1-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Plus sports a 6.7-inch screen, both utilizing Super Retina XDR displays with enhanced glass-ceramic protection, claimed to be 50 percent tougher. The cameras are now vertically stacked with a 48MP main lens and a 12MP telephoto lens capable of spatial video recording, and the battery life has been increased.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will be available in ultramarine, teal, pink, black, and white color options, starting at $799 and $899 respectively.
The new iPhone 16 Pro models, aimed more towards creators, boast enhanced cinematic video and audio functionalities and larger screens. The iPhone 16 Pro now has a 6.3-inch display, and the Pro Max comes with a 6.9-inch screen, making them the largest iPhones to date. The A18 Pro chip with a 16-core Neural Engine enhances the processing of Intelligence features, which Apple claims make it the fastest chip in any smartphone.
The same Camera Control button on the standard models is also found on the Pro models, allowing various camera and mode functions. These devices feature a new 48MP front camera and upgraded rear cameras, capable of 4K video recording at 120fps, slow-motion video, and spatial audio capture.
All iPhone 16 models will support Qi2 charging. The Pro versions will be available in desert titanium and three other titanium colors, with prices starting at $999 for the iPhone 16 Pro and $1,199 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Pre-orders begin on September 13, with official release on September 20.
In addition to smartphones, Apple announced the AirPods 4 and Apple Watch Series 10, both available for pre-order and shipping on September 20.
For more detailed updates on the event, readers can follow the comprehensive coverage of Apple’s iPhone 16 event.
