Even though the iPhone 15 series was released not too long ago, there's already a flurry of rumors and leaked information about the upcoming iPhone 16 series. We'll dive into these reports and eagerly await the debut of these features with the new flagship phone series.
Expected Release Date
Apple traditionally introduces new iPhone models in September, so the iPhone 16 series is expected to do the same. Barring any unexpected delays, we can expect the launch event to take place in September 2024 and the devices to go on sale shortly afterwards.
Although the exact release date is not yet known, Apple usually releases new iPhones around the third week of September. If the company sticks to its usual schedule, we can expect iPhone 16 to be available in Lithuania in mid-October 2024.
Rumored Price Changes
One of the most important factors that consumers consider when looking to buy the latest iPhone is price. There are rumours that Apple may adjust the prices of future iPhone 16 models in response to rising component costs and in order to maintain profit margins. It is estimated that the price of the standard iPhone 16 could start at around 1000€ and the iPhone 16 Plus at 1100€. However, Pro models are expected to increase in price compared to the iPhone 15 Pro series, with iPhone 16 Pro expected to start at 1500€ and iPhone 16 Pro Max at 1600€.
While the iPhone 15 Pro Max had already increased in price, other models maintained their previous prices. However, as component prices continue to rise, rumours suggest that Apple may slightly increase the prices of all iPhone 16 models.
New features for Siri AI
Apple is also rumored to introduce new Siri features based on large speech patterns and generative AI capabilities with iOS 18. Some of these advanced AI features may be exclusive to iPhone 16 models, which will allow you to process the AI on your device and improve the interaction between Siri and various apps. According to leaks, updated AI features in iOS 18 may include better integration between Siri and typed messages, automatically generated Apple Music playlists based on user preferences, and AI-assisted content creation in apps. For these reasons, AI is expected to require a better microphone, and Apple will need to make this available in iPhone 16 models, providing greater water resistance and better audio transmission and noise cancellation for a more accurate and smoother Siri experience.
Battery and Charging Improvements
Rumour has it that Apple will tackle the long-standing problem of battery capacity and charging with the new model, thus improving the battery and charging capabilities of the 16 Series. Rumours suggest that it will use composite battery technology, which could make iPhone 16 batteries have higher capacity and last longer. In addition, iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to support faster 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe wireless charging, so users can quickly recharge their devices when needed. These battery and charging enhancements have the potential to significantly improve the overall user experience by providing longer battery life and more convenient charging options for iPhone 16 users.
Design Updates and Camera Layout
One of the most significant design changes in the iPhone 16 series is said to be the camera layout. According to leaked CAD files and schematics, the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models are expected to feature a vertical camera layout, which will be a hybrid that combines the camera styles of the iPhone XS and the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Plus series. This vertical camera layout marks a transition from the diagonal layout used in the iPhone 13, iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series and indicates that a consistent design was chosen for these models prior to the change. The new design is said to be optimised for surround video recording, ensuring compatibility with Apple Vision Pro. Given the current complaints with Apple Vision Pro it is expected that the next version of Vision Pro will be introduced at the same time, which will have subtle design changes and enhancements to allow for a smoother integration with the anticipated iPhone 16 series. In addition to the change in camera layout, the iPhone 16 series is expected to feature a new Capture Button on the side of the device. This button is said to be pressure-sensitive and will allow users to focus and capture photos and videos with a dedicated hardware control, similar to traditional digital cameras.
Larger Pro Model Sizes
The standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models are expected to maintain the same screen sizes as previous models, but there is talk of larger screen sizes for Pro models. According to reports, the iPhone 16 Pro will have a 6.3-inch screen, which will be larger than the iPhone 15 Pro's 6.1-inch display. The iPhone 16 Pro Max will also increase in size and is expected to have a 6.9-inch screen, which is larger than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which has a 6.7-inch screen. This increase in size could accommodate additional camera enhancements and potentially a larger capacity battery.
New Action and Capture Buttons
One of the most intriguing rumours is the introduction of a new Action Button. iPhone 15 Pro models introduced the Action Button, which replaces the traditional mute switch and provides customisable features. Apple is expected to introduce the Action Button on all models, including standard variants, in the 16 Series. In addition to the addition of a new Capture Button on the right-hand side of the device, a new Capture Button will be added in the same location as the mmWave antenna, which is only available on US models. The Capture Button is expected to be pressure-sensitive, allowing users to focus and capture photos and videos at different pressure levels, similar to digital cameras.
CPU improvements
This could enhance features such as computer photography, augmented reality experiences and on-device processing capabilities. In addition, Apple is expected to continue its efforts to improve thermal management in the iPhone 16 series. It is expected to use graphene thermal systems and metal battery cases to better dissipate heat and thus address the overheating issues that plague the iPhone 15 line.
Enhanced Zoom Capabilities
Camera improvements are always a highlight of new iPhone releases, and the 16 Series should be no exception. One of the most significant improvements to the camera in the 16 Pro model is that the 16 Pro series will also have a lens capable of 5x optical zoom. 5x optical zoom is currently only available on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. By moving this feature to the Pro model, Apple could increase the availability of zoom capabilities to a wider range of users who prefer more compact models. In addition, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is said to feature an improved 48-megapixel main camera with an eight-part hybrid lens system, promising even better image quality and low-light performance.
Spatial Video for Apple Vision Pro
One of the main reasons for the talk of having a vertical camera instead of a fisheye camera on the standard iPhone 16 models is to enable surround video recording. This feature would be designed to work seamlessly with future versions of Apple Vision Pro. Spatial video, also known as stereoscopic video, captures depth information and creates a more immersive viewing experience when viewed through Apple Vision Pro augmented reality (AR) glasses. By vertically aligning the camera lenses, the iPhone 16 Series will be able to capture three-dimensional video content that can be enjoyed while viewing through AR. This integration between iPhone 16 and Apple Vision Pro could be an important selling point for both products, as users will be able to capture and relive memories in a more immersive and engaging way.
Minor Tweaks to Standard Models
The iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to receive significant improvements, while the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models may receive minor enhancements. Rumours suggest that these models may be upgraded to 8 GB of RAM, up from 6 GB in the iPhone 15 series. In addition, the standard models may get an upgrade to 5G connectivity, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon X70 modem, which was also used in the iPhone 15 series. However, Pro models are rumoured to feature the more advanced Snapdragon X75 modem for faster and more efficient 5G performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the iPhone 16 be released?
Based on Apple's typical release schedule, the iPhone 16 lineup is expected to be unveiled in September 2024, with the devices hitting the shelves shortly after, likely in late September or early October.
2. Will the iPhone 16 be more expensive than the iPhone 15?
This has not yet been confirmed, but rumours suggest that Apple may slightly increase the prices of all iPhone 16 models to compensate for rising component costs and maintain overall revenues.
3. What are the rumored camera improvements for the iPhone 16 Pro models?
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models are said to feature a 5x optical zoom lens, which was previously only available on the 15 Pro Max model. In addition, Pro Max is expected to have an improved 48-megapixel main camera with an eight-part hybrid lens system for better image quality and low-light performance.
4. Will the iPhone 16 series support spatial video recording?
Yes, it's rumoured that standard iPhone 16 models will feature a vertical camera layout specifically designed for spatial video recording that will work seamlessly with Apple's upcoming Apple Vision Pro mixed reality glasses.
5. What new buttons are expected on the iPhone 16 lineup?
Apple is expected to bring the Action Button found on the 15 Pro models to all iPhone 16 models. In addition, a new pressure-sensitive Capture Button is said to be added to the right side of the device for focusing and capturing photos and videos.
Potential iPhone 16 Ultra Model
Although not widely reported, there have been whispers of a possible iPhone 16 Ultra model. This high-end variant could be billed as the premium offering in the iPhone 16 line-up, with additional camera enhancements, a larger screen and perhaps even a completely different and unprecedented design. However, it is important to note that these rumours have not yet been confirmed, and early iOS 18 code indicates that Apple is developing only four iPhone models: two standard iPhone 16 models and two Pro models. If the iPhone 16 Ultra is indeed developed, it could be aimed at power users and professionals who demand the absolute best in performance, camera capability and advanced features.
There are already Rumours About the iPhone 17
While the focus is currently on the iPhone 16 series, rumors and leaks are already starting to emerge about future iPhone models. Here are some of the most notable rumors for the iPhone 17 and beyond:
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From 2025, ProMotion technology with a 120Hz display can also be used on standard iPhone models, as it has been exclusive to Pro models for several years.
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The iPhone 17 Pro Max, launching in 2025, may include a 48-megapixel telephoto lens optimised for Apple Vision Pro glasses to further enhance the mixed reality experience.
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There's talk that Face ID underneath the screen may increase the screen space to avoid the need for a notch or Dynamic Island, but this won't come until 2025 or later.
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By 2026, Apple is expected to introduce a full-screen design with no cutouts for the front-facing camera, thanks to under-display camera technology.
As the iPhone 16 series approaches, more information and rumours are sure to emerge to give a clearer picture of what to expect from Apple's next flagship smartphones. Stay tuned as we try to update you as often as possible on the iPhone 16 series.
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