iPhone 16 series: We are expecting some big upgrades from 2024 Apple flagship phones this year
Apple's next generation iPhone 16 series is expected to launch in Fall 2024, with a new and faster processor, larger display sizes for 'Pro' models and improved AI capabilities.
In Short
- The iPhone 16 series, expected to arrive in Fall 2024.
- The new iPhones ar said to powered by Apple's new A18 Bionic chip.
- iPhone 16 models might also will boast larger display sizes for the 'Pro' models.
It's only been a few months since Apple launched its latest iPhones, the iPhone 15 series, but tech enthusiasts are already eagerly looking towards the next generation - the iPhone 16. Expected to arrive in Fall 2024, leaks and rumours are already over the internet suggesting significant improvements in the upcoming iPhone 16 compared to its predecessors.
Apple is rumoured to be planning significant design changes, potentially similar to the shift from iPhone X to iPhone 11. The company is also said to be focusing on improvements in camera capabilities, battery life, thermal design, and more. The iPhone 16 is also expected to be powered by a new and faster processor, presumably the Apple A18 Bionic chip, with increased AI computing cores compared to current models. Additionally, rumours suggest the iPhone 16 models will boast larger display sizes for the "Pro" models, with significant camera improvements, and potentially a new button.
Let's delve into everything we know and have heard so far about Apple's upcoming iPhone lineup.
iPhone 16 series everything we know so far
Apple is reportedly developing next-generation A-series chips using advanced N3E technology for the iPhone 16 series. These chips are expected to boost the speed and battery life of the devices. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus might sport the A17 chip, potentially differing from the Pro models' A17 Pro. Analyst Jeff Pu suggests a naming shift to A18 for all models, with Pro models receiving an extra GPU core and an improved Neural Engine for enhanced AI capabilities.
The iPhone 16 lineup might also undergo a change in the button layout. The popular Action Button from the iPhone 15 Pro might become standard across all models. Additionally, a new "Capture Button," resembling a physical camera shutter and offering multi-level pressure sensitivity for focusing and capturing photos, is rumoured to make an appearance. The mute switch might be removed in favour of these new functionalities.
In the camera department, too, Apple is expected to bring a significant design change. The iPhone 16 series might abandon the traditional diagonal camera setup in favour of a new vertical arrangement. This design change supposedly allows for features like Spatial Video capture for Apple's Vision Pro headset. A potential "Tetra Prism" 5x optical zoom lens could significantly improve zoom capabilities. The Pro models might boast a 48-megapixel Ultra Wide lens for better low-light photography, similar to the technology used in the Wide lens. The iPhone 16 Pro Max might even feature a unique 48-megapixel wide-angle camera with a hybrid lens, alongside enhanced telephoto and ultra-wide lenses. Both Pro models might gain access to the previously exclusive 5x telephoto lens, and the Pro Max might even include a super telephoto periscope camera for superior zooming.
The Pro models might see a size increase, with the iPhone 16 Pro reaching 6.3 inches and the Pro Max reaching 6.9 inches. The increased size translates to a slightly larger, heavier body, but they will maintain the same thickness and overall design. Apple might implement micro-lens technology for improved brightness and reduced power consumption in the OLED panels.
Recent reports also hint at the possibility of an Always-on display feature in the upcoming iPhone 16. This feature, would allow users to glance at their phone for information without needing to wake the device fully.
The Pro model might utilise a new battery technology for extended battery life and support 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging. A leaked image suggests a redesigned battery with a 3355mAh capacity for the Pro model. Improved thermal management is expected through a rumoured graphene thermal system, potentially accompanied by a metal battery case in the Pro models. All standard iPhone 16 models might receive a RAM boost to 8GB.
Following industry trends, Apple is also rumoured to enhance AI capabilities in the iPhone 16 lineup. Exclusive access to all advanced AI features in iOS 18 for the iPhone 16 remains unclear, but rumours suggest limitations for some features powered by large language models. Regardless, iOS 18 is expected to introduce new AI functionalities like smarter Siri-Messages integration, personalised Apple Music playlists, and AI-powered content creation tools.