September 18th 2024.
When it comes to the new iPhone, there's always a buzz of excitement and anticipation. But every year, without fail, there are those who claim that the latest model looks just like the last one or that Apple has run out of new ideas. These comments, however, are usually made by loyal fans of other phone brands and are often misguided. The truth is, the iPhone 16, released in 2024, is truly a sleeper device. From the outside, it may not look like much has changed, but for those who become owners, there is so much to appreciate and be excited about.
Apple has once again proven themselves as the king of smartwatches with their latest release, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. The base level models come in a range of vibrant colors, including a new blue, green, and pink, which really stand out compared to the more traditional black and white options. For the more advanced users, there are the classic black, white, and natural titanium colors, as well as a new "desert titanium" option. This color, to me, gives off a similar vibe to the rose gold iPhones of the past, but with a more subtle touch of brown. Trust me, it's definitely not just brown.
One of the great things about this year's release is that there are really only two choices to make - the pro or standard model - and then you can decide on the size. Last year, things got a bit complicated with the iPhone 15 Pro Max having a better camera than the 15 Pro, which caused some polarization among users, including myself. But now, it's simple. You can either go for the best camera with top-notch performance and a large screen, or opt for a fantastic camera with great performance and a variety of vibrant colors to choose from. I have a feeling that the iPhone 16 Plus will be a popular choice for many, with its impressive specs, stunning screen, and excellent camera.
As we all know, the iPhone is the most-used camera on the planet, so it's no surprise that the focus of each year's release is often on the camera. This year, the standard 16 model has some great new features, like Fusion photos, which improve picture quality, and a 2x zoom on the main sensor, as well as autofocus and macro capabilities on the ultra-wide lens. These are fantastic advancements for the base model. All models also have a new audio mix feature in videos, which allows you to choose the focus of the audio after the recording has taken place. I tested this out and it's incredibly well done, replicating the demonstrations that Apple showcased.
But the standout feature of the iPhone 16, across all models, has to be the camera control button. We've been hearing about this for months now, but it has exceeded all expectations. Yes, pressing the button launches the camera, and yes, pressing it again takes a photo - you can even hold it down to take a video. But what we didn't expect was that the button is touch-sensitive, making it even more convenient to use. After using it for a few days, I found that a light press or "half press" brings up a menu near the camera control button, allowing you to zoom in and out with a simple swipe of your finger. Press it twice and you have access to other camera settings right there on the button. It's like having all the buttons and dials of a DSLR camera at your fingertips. While I still use the on-screen controls most of the time, this feature really shines when you're in photographer mode, whether you're taking scenic photos or trying to capture the perfect shot at your child's sports game. It's perfectly positioned for right-handers, making it a breeze to use for selfies.
One of the most exciting features of the iPhone 16 is one that we have yet to experience. I was lucky enough to test out Apple Intelligence on my iPhone 15 Pro during the beta testing phase of iOS18 development, and I have to say, it's great. However, as of now, it's not available on the iPhone 16, despite being marketed as one of its key features. The Apple website lists it as a coming soon feature, likely to be released in December for Australia. This feature is only compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro and all iPhone 16 models, making it a tempting reason to upgrade. Apple Intelligence promises to make your life more efficient and simple, providing helpful assistance with day-to-day tasks. For example, instead of seeing a long email with just the first few words visible, it will show a summary of the email, making it easier to decide which ones need your immediate attention. And if you receive a lengthy text message while you're busy, Apple Intelligence will summarize it for you, saving you time and effort. While other companies may offer similar features, they often require you to seek them out and use them. Apple Intelligence seamlessly integrates into your daily life, making it a standout AI on a consumer device.
In conclusion, the iPhone 16 is set to be released this Friday, with prices starting at $1399, which is lower than last year's prices. In my opinion, it's an excellent upgrade for anyone with an iPhone 13 or earlier, or even those with a later model if Apple Intelligence is something that interests you. However, if you're eagerly waiting for the release of Apple Intelligence, I would advise against rushing to buy the iPhone 16, as it's coming soon. But for those who are patient, it will definitely be worth the wait.
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