Apple unveiled its latest iPhones, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, at its Glowtime event on Monday. Building on the success of last year’s iPhone 15, the new models bring several key enhancements, including a new dedicated camera control button, the introduction of the Action button previously exclusive to the Pro models, and the powerful A18 processor.
The most notable change is the addition of a dedicated camera “button” that allows users to easily capture moments without having to tap the screen. The button offers various functionalities, including photo capture, zoom control, and mode switching. Additionally, Apple has redesigned the rear camera layout, returning to vertically aligned lenses, reminiscent of earlier models. This new design enhances spatial photo and video recording, compatible with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Camera enthusiasts will also benefit from a new feature called “visual intelligence,” which enables users to identify objects or places by simply pointing the camera at them. However, this tool will be rolled out later in the year.
The phones will run on Apple’s new A18 chip, designed to work seamlessly with Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI-powered feature set. The battery life has been slightly improved, with the iPhone 16 offering two additional hours of video playback compared to the iPhone 15, while the iPhone 16 Plus gains an extra four hours of streaming playback.
Preorders for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus begin Friday, with prices starting at $799 and $899 respectively. Both models will be available in white, black, ultramarine, teal, and pink, and will hit stores on September 20.