aApple introduces the iPhone 16 Pro, featuring a 5x zoom camera in the larger Pro Max lineup. This move emphasizes size as a key differentiator, positioning the smaller Pro as a strong contender for the title of best small smartphone in the market going forward.
The iPhone 16 Pro is priced at £999 (€1,199/$999/AU$1,799), the same as last year’s model, positioning it between the £1,199 16 Pro Max and the base iPhone 16 starting at £799. This places it in direct competition with Google’s Pixel 9 Pro, which boasts a similarly sized screen at a £999 price point.
Visually, the 16 Pro resembles its predecessor, the 15 Pro, with a slightly larger display measuring 6.3 inches diagonally. While the phone is a bit larger and 12g heavier, it still maintains a slim profile similar to its predecessor when fitted in a slim case.
The iPhone 16 Pro’s compact size makes it convenient for one-handed use and pocket storage. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Featuring a high-quality display suitable for photography and video, the 16 Pro offers excellent visual experiences. However, it may fall slightly short in terms of outdoor visibility compared to competitors offering brighter screens. Apple claims a 50% increase in glass durability compared to previous models, but users may still opt for a protective case to safeguard against accidental drops.
The inclusion of new camera control buttons on the side allows for quick access to camera functions through various interactions. Together with the existing buttons, users now have a total of five buttons for camera control and actions, enhancing the overall photography experience.
Running on iOS 18, the device offers extensive customization options for the Home screen, Control Center, Photos, Notes, Maps app, a new password manager, and RCS support for the Messages app. However, certain highly anticipated AI features like smarter Siri and notification summaries are not yet available, with a beta rollout schedule specified. The update cycle differs across regions, with the US set to receive updates first followed by other English-speaking countries.
Specifications
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Screen: 6.3 inch Super Retina XDR (120Hz OLED) (460ppi)
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Processor: Apple A18 Pro
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RAM: 8GB
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Storage: 128, 256, 512GB or 1TB
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Operating System: iOS17
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Camera: 48MP main, 48MP UW and 12MP 5x zoom, 12MP front camera
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Connectivity: 5G, wifi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, thread, USB-C, satellite, UWB, GNSS
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Water Resistance: IP68 (30 minutes at 6 meters)
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Size: 149.6×71.5×8.25mm
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Weight: 199g
New A18 Pro Chip Adds Speed and Efficiency
The iPhone 16 Pro achieves a full charge in 105 minutes, with 53% charge in 30 minutes and 80% in 56 minutes using a 45W USB-C charger. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Equipped with the new A18 Pro chip, the 16 Pro demonstrates a 10-15% performance boost alongside 20% faster graphics rendering. The device operates smoothly and ensures long-term top-notch performance. Additionally, the chip enhances cooling efficiency by 20% for extended gaming sessions.
Regarding battery life, the device offers approximately 38-40 hours between charges when combining 5G and Wi-Fi usage, with over 5 hours of active screen time. This aligns with the performance of its predecessor, requiring charging every other day or nightly on heavier usage days.
Sustainability Focus
The back of the iPhone 16 Pro maintains the titanium sides seen in recent models. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Apple emphasizes sustainability by highlighting the durability and recyclability of its batteries. The device boasts a comprehensive analysis of material usage, with over 25% recycled materials incorporated in its production. Trade-in and recycling initiatives are also available, extending to non-Apple product disposal.
Enhanced Camera Capabilities
Dedicated camera control buttons on the iPhone 16 Pro facilitate quick access to camera functions. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Significant camera upgrades define the 16 Pro, aligning its capabilities with the Pro Max range. The introduction of a 5x optical zoom camera and enhanced camera controls represent key enhancements featured in this device.
The 16 Pro’s main 48-megapixel camera delivers exceptional image quality, with improved performance at full resolution. Additionally, the ultra-wide camera has been upgraded to 48MP, enhancing both wide-angle and macro photography capabilities.
Notably, the 5x optical zoom provided by the telephoto camera stands out as a major upgrade, offering clear and detailed magnification. The device’s digital zoom capabilities, reaching up to 25x, deliver quality results for higher zoom levels.
A refinement in Photo Styles allows users to adjust image aesthetics on-the-go, adding a creative dimension to photography. Offering various presets and customization options, this feature encourages experimentation and personalization in capturing images.
Moreover, innovative features like spatial photography and AI-powered 3D photography enhance the imaging experience, allowing for creative expression. The device’s video capabilities, including 4K at 120fps and advanced audio mixing, further elevate the overall media creation experience.
Pricing Details
The iPhone 16 Pro is priced at £999 (€1,199/$999/AU$1,799) for the base model with 128GB storage.
In comparison, the iPhone 16 is priced at £799, the iPhone 16 Pro Max at £1,199, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro at £999. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Fairphone 5 are available at £1,249 and £499, respectively.
Final Verdict
Apple maintains the tri-camera layout on the iPhone 16 Pro, contrasting with the dual-camera arrangement on the vanilla iPhone 16. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The iPhone 16 Pro strikes a balance between compact design and advanced features, offering a generous screen size and premium functionalities within a small form factor.
The addition of a 5x optical zoom camera positions the iPhone 16 Pro as a competitive choice against the larger 16 Pro Max, emphasizing user preferences for size and price over features. The device’s enhanced camera features and faster processor contribute to an impressive user experience.
While the new camera control button streamlines camera access, its usability for settings adjustment may require some adjustment. Apple’s delayed AI features put it in direct competition with Google’s Pixel 9 Pro for the top spot in the small smartphone segment.
Priced at £200 above the base iPhone 16, the 16 Pro offers top-notch performance and features at a more accessible price point compared to the 16 Pro Max.
Strong Points: Compact design, excellent camera with 5x optical zoom, high-quality screen, USB-C connectivity, camera control buttons, long battery life, top-notch performance, software support, Face ID.
Cons: Higher price point, challenging camera controls, increased size and weight, design similarities to the predecessor model.
Source: www.theguardian.com
