iPhone 16/iPhone 16 Plus
This year’s standard iPhone range dazzles with stunning new colors and introduces an innovative Camera Control that aligns with its Pro siblings. For the first time, the phones incorporate an Action Button. Additionally, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus boast the new A18 chipset, enhanced RAM, macro photography capabilities, improved battery life, and more.
According to The Verge, the iPhone 16 is “fully up to speed” with its “dependable camera and flexible photographic styles” along with the “useful” Action Button. However, the absence of Apple Intelligence, which was expected to launch with this series, will instead roll out in future updates of iOS 18. The site also pointed out that the persistent 60Hz refresh rate on the entry-level models remains a drawback and described Camera Control as a “mixed bag.”
TechRadar hailed the Camera Control as a “transformative feature” that will appeal to creators. It also praised the Action Button as a “great addition,” while noting the strength of the A18 chip and the selection of new colors. Nonetheless, similar to The Verge, TechRadar criticized the lack of a refresh rate upgrade for the less expensive models and felt that the iPhone 16 does not significantly outshine the iPhone 15.
CNET lauded the Camera Control, especially its compact interface, finding it “entertaining to explore.” They also appreciated the Ultrawide camera’s performance in low-light conditions and the new Photographic Styles across the iPhone 16 series. On the downside, they criticized the absence of an always-on display and the lack of enhancements in wired charging speed.
iPhone 16 Pro/iPhone 16 Pro Max
Now, let’s dive into what reviewers are saying about the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Engadget highlighted the rapid camera performance and high-quality video recording capabilities of both models. The customizable features introduced with iOS 18 and the new Photographic Styles were met with praise. Nevertheless, Engadget noted the iPhone 16 Pro’s somewhat limited battery life, while the Pro Max scored high on this aspect. They also pointed out that Camera Control, while promising, still requires improvements.
In a review by Wired, the Pro models received a solid 8/10 rating. The review commended their outstanding performance and battery longevity. New camera functionalities were seen as both enjoyable and beneficial, along with faster wireless charging options and additional features in the Photos app on iOS 18. However, the delay in Apple Intelligence was mentioned, as well as questions about whether the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s expansive 6.9-inch display might be excessive.
CNBC also applauded the enhanced battery life of the iPhone 16 Pro Max and both models’ excellent camera systems, particularly the new Camera Control feature. Special mention was made of the 48MP wide-angle lens in the Pro model for delivering clearer images in wide shots. However, as with other reviews, the absence of Apple Intelligence drew criticism, and the slight difference in display size wasn’t deemed significant compared to last year’s models.
Initial impressions suggest that users will appreciate the Camera Control feature, benefit from the improved battery performance of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and enjoy the updates offered by iOS 18 on the latest models. Nonetheless, the missing Apple Intelligence suggests these devices still have areas for enhancement, leaving the overall assessment of all four phones in suspense.