Apple’s latest lineup of smartphones has been unveiled, and CNET had the opportunity to test them out. During its Glowtime event, Apple introduced its newest iPhones, with the standard models being referred to as the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.
The key differences between the iPhone 16 and the previous year’s iPhone 15 include the debut of a new dedicated camera button, the inclusion of the Action button (previously exclusive to the Pro models), a new A18 processor, and enhancements to the zoom camera quality. Apple is highlighting its new iPhone range as the first phones designed for Apple Intelligence, a significant move at a time when major tech companies are vying to integrate more AI into their flagship products.
Pricing for the new phones remains consistent with last year’s models: the 128GB iPhone 16 starts at $799 (£799, AU$1,399), while the 128GB iPhone 16 Plus is priced starting at $899 (£899, AU$1,599). Preorders for the devices will commence on Friday, with availability in stores starting on September 20.
If you’re considering preordering the latest Apple products, we’ve compiled a list of the best deals on the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4.
iPhone 16 Cameras
The iPhone 16’s cameras are vertically aligned.
The new iPhones sport a redesigned rear camera bump where the sensors are arranged vertically, akin to their arrangement on the back of past models like the iPhone X, XS, XR, 11, and 12. The iPhone 13, 14, and 15 had diagonally aligned rear cameras. Vertical alignment of the cameras enables them to capture spatial photos and videos for viewing on Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
More from the Apple event
Of particular interest to photography enthusiasts is the addition of a dedicated camera control button on the side of the device. Apple has long marketed the iPhone as comparable to DSLRs, and this dedicated button streamlines the process of capturing moments and memories.
The button can be clicked to take a photo, while sliding can adjust zoom. Double pressing allows for mode or setting changes. Apple states that the camera control functionality will be applicable in third-party apps as well.
Based on CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco’s hands-on experience with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, Camera Control seems like an engaging feature to experiment with. You can access various settings and controls by sliding your finger across the sensor, resembling a touchpad that also functions as a button. This builds on Apple’s QuickTake feature introduced with the iPhone 11, enabling video recording by pressing and holding the shutter button.
The iPhone 16’s Camera Control button allows launching the camera without touching the screen.
Further assessment by CNET will determine the practicality and effectiveness of Camera Control. Nevertheless, it appears to be a convenient way to manage camera settings and shooting modes without obstructing the screen with your finger.
Another intriguing application for Camera Control is a new feature named “visual intelligence.” Pressing and holding the Camera Control button swiftly directs the iPhone’s camera towards an object or location to acquire more information, similar to the functionality of Google Lens. This underscore…
iPhone 16 processor and battery life
All iPhone 16 models are powered by iOS 18 on the latest A18 processor, capable of harnessing Apple’s new Apple Intelligence AI features. Apple mentions that the iPhone 16 will boast a “larger battery,” but specific details regarding extended battery life were not disclosed during the presentation.
According to the specifications page, the iPhone 16 will offer an additional 2 hours of video playback compared to the iPhone 15 for both locally stored and streamed videos. The iPhone 16 Plus will provide an extra hour of local video playback and 4 more hours of streamed video playback.
Similar to the iPhone 15 series, the phones can be charged via USB-C or wirelessly using MagSafe or Qi2. MagSafe charging now supports faster 25-watt speeds, up from the maximum of 15 watts with the iPhone 15. Qi-based wireless charging remains at 15 watts for Qi2 chargers and 7.5 watts for older Qi chargers.
The new color options for the iPhone 16
The base iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will be available in white, black, ultramarine (blue), teal (green), and pink, presenting vibrant and colorful choices for consumers.
With the introduction of Camera Control, the Action button, improved processor, and camera enhancements, the iPhone 16 appears to be a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the iPhone 15. However, the pivotal question on everyone’s mind will likely be the value of upgrading to Apple Intelligence, as these new models are among the first to feature Apple’s new AI capabilities. More insights will be gained once we have spent more time with the devices and Apple Intelligence is fully rolled out.
Watch this: Watch Everything Announced at Apple’s iPhone 16 Event
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