Apple iPhone 16 Series Review: Features and Recommendations

\"New — New iPhones for the AI era. | Image: Cath Virginia / The Verge

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The wait is over — kind of. Apple’s iPhone 16 series has officially launched, featuring the kinda affordable iPhone 16E, alongside the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence powered by iOS 18.1. However, if you are expecting a revolutionary iPhone experience, there are some caveats. The new features, including writing tools and ChatGPT integration, have become standard in the smartphone market. Although Siri has received a visual update, it remains fundamentally the same.

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Apple has promised more enhancements, but the rollout of Apple Intelligence is expected to be gradual, extending into 2025. Therefore, if your current phone meets your needs, there is little reason to rush into purchasing a new model solely for the sake of Apple Intelligence.

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How We Test Smartphones

Testing a smartphone thoroughly requires time and hands-on experience. Each phone I review is equipped with my personal SIM card, and I use it as my primary device for at least one week. This process involves setting up the phone from scratch, installing my apps, and engaging in daily activities — from stress-testing the battery to using GPS navigation while streaming music, and capturing rapid-fire portrait mode photos of my child. For some, switching phones weekly may seem appealing, while for others, it could be a nightmare. Personally, the routine has become seamless.

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Overall Value

When considering the best iPhone, the most expensive model is not necessarily the best fit for everyone. My focus is on finding a balance — features that cater to the majority at a reasonable price. Sometimes, last year’s model may be the best option.

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Battery Life

Battery performance can vary significantly among current iPhone models, primarily due to differences in size. Users generally prefer a phone that can last an entire day, and my recommendations reflect this preference.

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Screen Size

Screen size is subjective; some users prefer compact devices, while others seek the largest display available. This guide includes options for both preferences.

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Ultimately, our phone buying philosophy encourages users to hold onto their current devices. If you are not particularly excited about new camera features, updated photo processing, or minor performance upgrades, there is no compelling reason to purchase the iPhone 16.

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However, if you are contemplating whether to upgrade from an iPhone 11 or 12, or if you are concerned about potential price increases due to the current tariff situation, the answer is likely affirmative. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus offer tangible improvements, even without considering the AI features. Should Apple Intelligence evolve into a more robust offering, you will be well-prepared.

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Recommended iPhones

The best iPhone for most people

The best high-end iPhone

The iPhone with the best battery life

The best inexpensive-ish iPhone

What about the iPhone 15?

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The Best iPhone for Most People

Screen: 6.1-inch, 2556 x 1179 OLED, 60Hz refresh rate / Processor: A18 / Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 main with sensor-shift IS; 12-megapixel ultrawide; 12-megapixel selfie / Battery: Not advertised / Charging: 27W wired, 25W wireless MagSafe, 15W Qi2, 7.5W Qi / Weather-resistance rating: IP68

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The basic iPhone has received a significant hardware upgrade, aligning it more closely with the Pro models. The iPhone 16 now features the Action Button, which allows quick access to frequently used apps, and introduces Camera Control. These enhancements make the iPhone 16 a more compelling option compared to its predecessor.

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Under the hood, the A18 chipset matches the processor found in the Pro models, ensuring a consistent update schedule. Additionally, this year’s base model includes extra RAM, enhancing overall performance.

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The iPhone 16 also boasts improved camera capabilities. The Camera Control feature allows users to quickly launch the camera app and adjust settings like exposure compensation. New Photographic Style filters enable users to customize contrast, brightness, and skin tone rendering. While the Pro models offer superior low-light performance and advanced features like 4K recording at 120 fps, the iPhone 16 remains the most customizable camera Apple has produced to date.

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However, there are notable limitations when comparing the standard iPhone 16 to the Pro models: it lacks a zoom lens and ProMotion display. The absence of a dedicated 5x lens may hinder creative photography, and the standard 60Hz refresh rate may be disappointing for users accustomed to smoother displays.

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Read my full Apple iPhone 16 review.

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The Best High-End iPhone

Screen: 6.3-inch, 2622 x 1206 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate / Processor: A18 Pro / Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.8 with sensor-shift IS; 12-megapixel 5x telephoto with OIS; 48-megapixel ultrawide; 12-megapixel selfie / Battery: Not advertised / Charging: 27W wired, 25W MagSafe wireless, 15W Qi2, 7.5W Qi / Weather-resistance rating: IP68

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The iPhone 16 Pro features a meaningful upgrade with the introduction of a 5x zoom lens, previously exclusive to the Pro Max model. This enhancement allows the smaller 16 Pro to compete more effectively with its larger counterpart.

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While the 16 Pro maintains a similar size to the 15 Pro, it now offers a larger 6.3-inch display. The new Camera Control, upgraded 48-megapixel ultrawide camera, and the latest chipset supporting Apple Intelligence further enhance its appeal.

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While the 16 Pro may not be a must-have upgrade, it offers a comprehensive set of features for those seeking the latest technology without opting for the largest device.

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Read our full Apple iPhone 16 Pro review.

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The iPhone with the Best Battery Life

Screen: 6.7-inch Super Retina OLED / Processor: A18 / Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 main with sensor

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