Apple unveils iPhone 16 & 16 Plus with enhanced features

Apple has announced the introduction of iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, a new line-up built to utilise Apple Intelligence. The devices feature the all-new A18 chip and bring significant advancements in camera technology and battery life.

In a statement from Cupertino, California, Apple revealed that the iPhone 16 models will be available in five colours: black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine. Pre-orders start this Saturday, with availability starting the following Friday.

"iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus mark the beginning of a new era for iPhone with Apple Intelligence delivering powerful, personal, and private experiences to our users," said Kaiann Drance, Apple's vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. "With ways to discover the world around you and capture memories using Camera Control; a new 48MP Fusion camera that gives you two optical-quality cameras in one; a big boost in battery life; and powerful, efficient performance thanks to the A18 chip, this is the perfect time for customers to upgrade or make the switch to iPhone."

The A18 chip is a significant development, promising enhanced performance and efficiency. According to Apple, this new chip supports demanding AAA games and offers a substantial boost in battery life. The A18 is built on second-generation 3-nanometer technology, which enhances both Apple Intelligence and mobile gaming capabilities.

Apple Intelligence is a noteworthy feature of the iPhone 16 series. This personal intelligence system uses Apple silicon and proprietary generative models to simplify everyday tasks while maintaining user privacy. Apple Intelligence will be available as a free software update, with the first set of features rolling out next month in U.S. English for most regions globally.

Notably, the iPhone 16 line-up includes a new Camera Control feature, which introduces innovative ways to capture images and videos. Camera Control includes hardware and software integration, utilising a tactile switch, high-precision force sensor, and capacitive sensor for touch interactions. Because of this, users can launch the camera, take photos, and start video recording more efficiently, ensuring no moment is missed.

Expansion of camera capabilities includes the new 48MP Fusion camera with a 2x Telephoto option and a 12MP Ultra Wide camera. These enhancements allow users to capture more detailed and personalised images. The camera system also supports macro photography and spatial photo and video capture, making reliving memories on Apple Vision Pro possible with remarkable depth.

Additionally, the Super Retina XDR display with OLED technology offers an exceptional viewing experience on both the 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screens. The Dynamic Island and Action button feature state-of-the-art accessibility, enabling users to switch functions like the camera, flashlight, and more seamlessly.

In terms of communication and safety, the iPhone 16 series leverages satellite technology to provide emergency services when outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. This includes sending and receiving messages via satellite, and later this year, Roadside Assistance via satellite will expand to the U.K. The devices also support Emergency SOS Live Video, available later in the U.S.

Environmentally, Apple continues to progress towards its carbon-neutral goals with these new models. The iPhones are designed with over 30% recycled content, including 85% recycled aluminium in the enclosure and a battery made of 100% recycled cobalt.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will be offered in storage capacities of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The devices will be available for pre-order starting this Saturday and will reach stores the following Friday.