The iPhone 15 series was recently launched, and it will be at least 10 months until the iPhone 16 series is released. However, there is already a lot of leaked information and rumors circulating about this upcoming iPhone series.
Here are 16 features expected to appear on the iPhone 16 Series set to be released next year.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are expected to have larger screens of 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively. Specifically, the iPhone 16 Pro will have a 6.27-inch screen (rounded up to 6.3), while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to have a 6.85-inch screen (rounded up to 6.9).
Camera Layout:
The standard iPhone 16 models are rumored to have a vertical camera layout similar to the one used in the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini. Apple used a diagonal layout for the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, and it’s unclear why they are returning to the old design. One hypothesis is that it might enable devices to shoot spatial video for Apple Vision Pro.
Capture Button:
A new physical Capture button is rumored to be equipped on all iPhone 16 models. Its purpose is still a mystery at this time.
48-Megapixel Ultra-Wide Lens:
The iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to feature an upgraded 48-megapixel Ultra-Wide camera lens to capture higher-resolution photos with more detail when shooting at 0.5× mode.
Super Telephoto Camera:
The iPhone 16 Pro Max could be the first device equipped with a prospective super telephoto lens to significantly enhance optical zoom capabilities, allowing Apple to maintain a distinction between the two “Pro” devices next year.
Wi-Fi 7 Support:
The Pro models are expected to have Wi-Fi 7, allowing data transmission simultaneously across 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, resulting in faster Wi-Fi speeds and lower latency.
A18 Pro Chip:
The next-generation A18 Pro chip from Apple is expected to be manufactured on TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process, also known as N3E.
5G Advanced:
Pro models may feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem for faster and more power-efficient 5G connectivity through “5G Advanced” supported networks.
5x Optical Zoom:
Both iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to have 5x optical zoom, a feature currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Solid-State Status Buttons:
Apple may finally introduce solid-state volume, power, and mute buttons for the Pro models. Apple initially wanted to replace physical buttons on the iPhone 15 Pro models but withdrew due to “unresolved technical issues.”
New Display Technology:
The iPhone 16 OLED display panel may use microLED technology for a brighter screen and more energy-efficient materials.
Action Button:
The iPhone 15 Pro models are equipped with a new Action button, and in 2024, the Action button may be expanded to the standard iPhone 16 models.
A18 Chip:
While the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro are equipped with the powerful A17 Pro chip, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus are equipped with the older A16 chip. However, for the iPhone 16 series, Apple seems to introduce the new A18 and A18 Pro chips for the respective models without reusing the old chip.
Exclusive AI Features:
New Siri features supported by large language models (LLMs) are expected to be in iOS 18. However, on-device AI features (not relying on the internet) may still be exclusive to the iPhone 16 models.
Stacked Battery Technology:
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro models will use stacked battery technology, potentially providing higher capacity and longer lifespan.
Ultra Model:
Apple might introduce the premium iPhone 16 “Ultra” to be sold alongside the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This device could have additional camera improvements, a larger screen, and possibly a portless design.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 16 series in September 2024. Until then, we will see more information about this product line unfold.