Hot on the heels of the iPhone 15 series launch, the buzz for the iPhone 16 series is already dominating headlines. That’s the Apple frenzy for you! Despite it being early days, insider scoops on the 2024 iPhone 16 series are flooding in, hinting at significant enhancements and upgrades. We’ve compiled all the leaks, insights, and rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 lineup, diving into specs, camera improvements, pricing, release dates, and more. Get ready for what’s in store and what might not make the final cut in Apple’s 2024 lineup. Stick with us for the evolving rumor mill as we keep you in the loop.
Updated as of November 28, 2023, to feature the latest rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 camera enhancements.
iPhone 16: Design & Display
Three significant display and design upgrades are rumored to revolutionize the 2024 iPhones, promising a fresh appearance and experience for Apple’s smartphone lineup.
Bigger Displays
In the upcoming 2024 iPhones, major size variations are anticipated, particularly in the Pro models. Rumors suggest an enlarged 6.27-inch display for the iPhone 16 Pro, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max might flaunt a record-breaking 6.86-inch screen, as indicated by various sources. Leaked CAD renderings (via 9to5Mac) hint at a taller display for the iPhone 16 Pro Max compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Additionally, continuing from the iPhone 15 Pro models, the iPhone 16 Pro variants are rumored to feature the coveted titanium frame.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are expected to maintain 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch displays, respectively. Apple’s focus appears to be refining the standard versions with contoured edges, a curved design, and the inclusion of Dynamic Island. Moreover, these models are anticipated to inherit the visually striking color-fused glass back with a matte finish, a standout feature from the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus.
As for the buzz around microLED displays, while it’s reportedly part of Apple’s future plans, it might take some time to materialize. Speculation suggests a potential debut of microLED technology with an Apple Watch, possibly arriving in 2024 or 2025, before making its way to iPhones and iPads in the later stages.
Under Display FaceID
The direction for Apple’s under-display Face ID technology seems to be a point of contention among experts. Initially, The Elec hinted at its arrival with the iPhone 16 Pro models in 2024, potentially replacing both the notch and Dynamic Island. However, display analyst Ross Young presented a contrasting timeline, suggesting we might not witness under-display Face ID until 2025.
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg aligns with the notion that fully embedding Face ID and the front-facing camera into the display could be a few years down the road, estimating a 3-4 year timeline for this advancement. Despite this, it’s expected that the iPhone 16 Pro models will incorporate the Dynamic Island feature introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro lineup.
When under-display Face ID eventually arrives on iPhones, it could mean a larger display area, utilizing a circular cutout for the selfie camera akin to the design seen on recent Samsung smartphones.
Regarding the revival of Touch ID in the iPhone 16 series, recent reports dismiss this possibility. It’s suggested that Apple might bid farewell to this technology entirely, even in the upcoming iPhone SE 4, which is anticipated to adopt Face ID rather than continuing with Touch ID, as seen in current iPhone SE models.
Solid State Buttons
Rumors surrounding the buttonless iPhone have persisted, generating significant anticipation for Apple’s shift to solid-state power, volume, and mute buttons, replacing the traditional physical counterparts. While the iPhone 15 models introduced the customizable Action Button on iPhone 15 Pro versions, the complete transition to solid-state buttons didn’t materialize.
Speculation from analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman hinted at Apple’s potential adoption of solid-state button technology in the 2024 iPhone models, particularly the iPhone 16 Pro. Solid-state buttons function similarly to physical ones but rely on haptic vibrations to simulate the sensation of pressing a button without any actual physical movement. Apple has already incorporated this technology in the Touch ID Home button of the iPhone SE and the trackpad of MacBook models.
While the concept of solid-state buttons for iPhones generates excitement, analyst Jeff Pu (via Macrumors) suggests a lower likelihood of their inclusion in the iPhone 16 Pro. This implies that Apple might require more time to develop this feature or could have encountered obstacles in its implementation. Cirrus Logic, a key Apple supplier, has also indicated limited awareness of Apple’s current plans regarding this technology. Amidst this mix of information, the actual plans for the iPhone 16 Pro’s features remain undisclosed until Apple’s 2024 reveal.
An Additional Capacitive Capture Button
Rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 lineup include the potential addition of a new capacitive button termed the “Capture button.” A leaker on Weibo, Instant Digital, hinted at Apple’s possible introduction of a button below the Power key, with speculation suggesting a relocation of the mmWave 5G antenna from the right to the left side of the iPhone to accommodate this change. The exact functionality of this Capture button remains unknown. However, reports suggest that both the new Capture and existing Action buttons on the iPhone 16 might employ solid-state technology, differing from the standard button design. Presently, it’s anticipated that the power key and volume buttons will remain physical, but Apple could pivot in their approach.
Additionally, in line with upgrades seen in the iPhone 15 Pro models, the base versions of the iPhone 16 are expected to receive enhancements to their Action Button.
iPhone 16: Camera Upgrades
Similar to the iPhone 15 series, the standard iPhone 16 models are expected to sport a 48MP primary camera along with a 12MP ultrawide camera on their rear panels. However, rumors suggest that the pricier variants might feature an even larger sensor for enhanced brightness in images. Speculations indicate a potential 12% increase in size for the upgraded sensor, expanding from the current 1/1.28 inches (0.78 inches) to 1/1.14 inches (0.87 inches). Additionally, there’s talk that the camera bump on the iPhone 16 Pro lineup could house a substantial upgrade, a 48MP ultra-wide sensor, a notable enhancement from the existing 12MP ultrawide angle lens on the iPhone 15 Pro models. This improvement aims to enhance low-light photography by allowing the lens to capture more light.
A recent report from the Economic Daily News, a Taiwanese site, shed light on significant changes to the iPhone 16 series’ camera setup. It suggests Apple’s adoption of advanced molded glass lenses for the iPhone 16 Pro, potentially resulting in a lighter and thinner design. These lenses are expected to be shorter yet offer improved optical zoom capabilities. However, the reported changes are anticipated to primarily affect the telephoto lens within the new camera design.
The iPhone 16 Pro is rumored to potentially incorporate a periscope telephoto camera or tetraprism lens, a feature currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max due to size limitations. If this materializes, it will mark a significant upgrade in camera specifications for the Pro models, catering to users who prefer a smaller Pro device and delivering an enhanced camera experience in the iPhone 16 Pro.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16 Pro Max might go a step further by introducing a super-periscope telephoto camera, offering significantly improved zoom capabilities. Cameras labeled as ‘ultra‘ or ‘super‘ typically possess focal lengths exceeding 300mm, allowing for impressive magnification of distant objects. Considering that the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a focal length of 120mm, a jump to over 300mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max would represent a substantial increase in zoom capabilities.
Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the entire iPhone 16 lineup could feature a stacked rear camera setup. This configuration aims to maximize light intake, resulting in more lifelike and detailed photographs. Additionally, there are speculations that the standard iPhone 16 models might revert to a vertical camera layout, reminiscent of the design seen previously on the iPhone 12 models.
iPhone 16: Specs & Features
The upcoming iPhone 16 lineup is set to debut with iOS 18 pre-installed. With the impressive features introduced in iOS 17, the anticipation for what iOS 18 will offer users is sky-high. Alongside this robust software, here are some speculated and potential specifications for the iPhone 16 that have surfaced. Let’s take a look at them!
5G Modem Chips
Recent reports suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro models are set to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem, offering enhanced 5G connectivity. Qualcomm touts the X75’s benefits, including improved carrier aggregation, reduced space requirements, and up to 20% lower power consumption. Moreover, this processor supports ‘5G Advanced‘ standards, integrating AI and Machine Learning enhancements, described as a step toward the evolution of 6G. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 16 models might stick with the Qualcomm X70 chip, similar to the iPhone 15 series.
While Apple has long used Qualcomm chips, they’ve been developing their own modem chip and antenna setup to reduce dependence on external components. This move stemmed from discontent with Qualcomm’s licensing terms, leading to a legal dispute in 2017. The pursuit of an Apple-designed 5G modem chip has been ongoing, initially slated for a 2023 debut, although the project faced delays. Earlier indications from Qualcomm’s CEO suggested Apple might adopt its own 5G modem chips by 2024. However, a recent leak from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple’s in-house modem chip might not arrive until 2025. Consequently, the iPhone 16 models could potentially continue using Qualcomm chipsets.
A-Series Chipset
Apple has adopted a trend of releasing new iPhones with distinct chipsets: the Pro models boasting the latest and more robust chips, while the standard models inherit the previous year’s Pro chipset. This pattern commenced with the iPhone 14 and continued with the iPhone 15 series. Logically, one might expect the standard iPhone 16 models to receive the A17 Pro chipset. However, emerging tips and rumors suggest a different scenario. It appears the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus won’t rely on older chipsets, but that doesn’t imply they’ll house the A18 chip reserved for the iPhone 16 Pro variants.
According to a Weibo user, Apple is working on a brand-new A17 chipset tailored for the standard iPhone 16 models. These chips will utilize a distinct manufacturing process from the A17 Pro. While the A17 Pro chip is constructed using TMSC’s N3B process, Apple might opt for the more cost-effective N3E process for the standard A17 chip. Although both would still be 3nm, they wouldn’t be identical. The introduction of the “Pro” label for its chipset this year indicates Apple might indeed unveil a standard variant specifically for the standard models, a move aligned with Apple’s known strategies.
Analyst Jeff Pu recently shared an alternative perspective, suggesting the potential inclusion of the A18 chipset in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, alongside the A18 Pro chip in the iPhone 16 Pro models. Pu’s insights propose that both the A18 and A18 Pro chips would likely utilize TMSC’s lower-cost N3E process, a similar technology speculated for the A17 chips. Considering the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus operate on the preceding year’s A16 Bionic chip, a leap to the A17 chipset would represent a substantial and noteworthy upgrade.
Generative AI Capabilties
iOS 18 is poised to introduce advanced Siri capabilities fueled by Large Language Models (LLM). While numerous new features are anticipated across iPhones, the groundbreaking generative AI functionalities might be exclusive to the iPhone 16 models. These robust generative AI capabilities could revolutionize interactions between Siri and various apps. Expect enhancements in Siri’s integration with the Messages app, potential collaboration with the Shortcuts app to streamline complex tasks, automated creation of Apple Music playlists, AI-driven content generation within productivity apps, and a host of other innovative possibilities.
Wi-Fi 7 Support
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, there’s a suggestion that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max might incorporate the next-generation Wi-Fi 7 standard. Theoretical projections indicate that Wi-Fi 7 could potentially offer a maximum data transfer speed of up to 40 Gbps, marking a substantial fourfold increase over Wi-Fi 6E.
In the context of Apple’s recent lineup, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus utilize Wi-Fi 6, while the 2023 Pro models were upgraded to support Wi-Fi 6E. Given this recent upgrade, making a year-over-year transition to a new Wi-Fi standard might present a considerable challenge for Apple. Even if the tech giant surprises everyone with Wi-Fi 7 adoption, users would require a compatible Wi-Fi 7 router to fully leverage these significantly faster speeds, which could be a substantial investment due to their higher prices.
Higher Base Storage
It’s anticipated that the upcoming iPhones will continue offering four storage options, beginning with a base storage of 128GB and reaching up to 1TB. However, there’s speculation that Apple might discontinue the 128GB variant, elevating the entry-level storage to 256GB. This move echoes Apple’s decision to remove the 128GB storage model from the iPhone 15 Pro lineup, evoking mixed reactions of delight and disappointment. The shift to a higher 256GB base storage could lead to higher starting prices for these models. Some believe that 128GB remains an ideal storage option for casual users, and the potential removal of this option might impact certain consumer preferences.
iPhone 16: Battery
The recent buzz surrounding Apple involves the potential adoption of stacked battery technology for upcoming iPhones. Initially, a Twitter user, RGcloudS, hinted at the possibility of this technology debuting in the iPhone 15 lineup, alongside upgraded wired charging speeds. Later updates from the same source suggested that the iPhone 16 series could indeed feature stacked battery technology, enabling 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging.
If these rumors hold true, the iPhone 16 series, particularly the Pro models, might boast increased battery capacities, faster charging speeds, and potentially longer lifespan. However, it’s essential to note that RGcloudS doesn’t have a proven track record with Apple leaks, primarily specializing in Android leaks. Hence, it’s advisable to approach this leak with caution until further official information surfaces.
That’s fascinating news about Apple exploring a graphene thermal system to address overheating concerns in the current iPhone 15 Pro models. Additionally, details have emerged regarding the battery unit of the iPhone 16 Pro, courtesy of tipster KosuTamiSan, who leaked prototype images showcasing different angles of the proposed iPhone 16 Pro battery.
The early-stage prototype maintains the familiar “L-shape” design seen in previous iPhone batteries but introduces a new “frosted metal design.” Close-up shots of the prototype indicate a 3,355mAh battery capacity for the iPhone 16 Pro, slightly surpassing the 3,274mAh battery found in the iPhone 15 Pro. Notably, this new battery design is anticipated to enhance thermal management for the iPhone 16 Pro, potentially addressing overheating issues. Moreover, these improvements are expected to extend to the iPhone 16 Pro Max as well. However, details about this development might still be in progress or pending release.
Will there be an iPhone 16 Ultra?
The iPhone lineup has featured Pro and Pro Max models since the iPhone 11 series. However, rumors abound that Apple could introduce a new pinnacle model, the iPhone 16 Ultra, surpassing the Pro and Pro Max models. Mark Gurman, in his February 2023 Power On newsletter, hinted at the potential arrival of this higher-end model, originally speculated for the iPhone 15 series but didn’t materialize. Strong rumors suggest Apple might finally unveil the high-end iPhone 16 Ultra in 2024.
Details regarding the design and features of the iPhone 16 Ultra remain elusive. Speculations range from an expanded display, a swifter chip, enhanced camera array, or even the much-discussed port-less design. Drawing comparisons to the Apple Watch Ultra, which introduced a revamped design and exclusive features, there’s a possibility Apple might adopt a similar strategy for its iPhone Ultra model. However, without a solid foundation for expectations, plans for this model are still uncertain, potentially leading to delays until 2025 or beyond.
iPhone 16: Release Date & Price
Based on Apple’s historical launch patterns, the iPhone 16 Series is widely expected to follow suit and debut around September 2024, aligning with the company’s typical release timeline. As for pricing details, specifics for the iPhone 16 lineup remain uncertain at this stage. However, initial estimations suggest that the entry-level iPhone 16 model might start around the standard $799 mark (approximately Rs 66,400).
Considering Apple’s recent price adjustments, particularly the increase in the starting price of the Pro Max model from $1,099 on the 14 Pro Max to $1,199 on the 15 Pro Max, it’s anticipated that the iPhone 16 Pro Max will similarly fall within these adjusted price brackets. If an Ultra model emerges as the new top-tier offering, it’s reasonable to expect that its price will surpass the Pro Max models, reaching an even higher price point.
Considering the culmination of various factors discussed earlier, the prospective iPhone 16 series might unfold as follows:
Expectations are rife regarding the iPhone 16 lineup. Speculation surrounds the potential addition of a new variant, the iPhone 16 Ultra, to Apple’s lineup. Share your thoughts and expectations for the iPhone 16 series in the comments section below.
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