Spot The Difference: Key Changes In Apple’s Latest iPhone Line-Up

Externally, Apple’s new iPhone 16 models don’t show dramatic changes from last year’s versions, except for a new addition: the Camera Control button. Positioned as a small, recessed groove on the lower right side, this feature is present across all four iPhone 16 variants.

It allows users to quickly access the camera launch screen with a single press and capture a photo with a second touch. The Camera Control button aims to mimic the experience of using a DSLR shutter button.

It’s designed to be used comfortably with your right hand, allowing your thumb to press the button for quick photo access and capture. Using it with your left hand is feasible but may require more adjustment.

During a hands-on test at Apple’s Cupertino campus, mastering some of the button’s additional functions took a bit of practice. In addition to taking photos or starting videos with the Camera Control button, you can also maintain contact and double-tap lightly to cycle through camera options.

Adjustments to zoom levels or other settings, depending on the selected mode, can be made by sliding your finger across the button. However, this feature was not always intuitive; many testers, including Apple staff, found it challenging to activate the mode toggle initially.

The iPhone lineup features some subtle updates, such as the Pro models having slightly larger screens—6.3 and 6.9 inches, respectively—with ultra-thin borders that maximize screen space. However, the difference in size might not be noticeable, as the 6.3-inch iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t look significantly larger than its 6.1-inch predecessor.

More significant changes are expected with upcoming software updates, including a suite of AI tools known as Apple Intelligence. This technology will debut in beta next month, following the iPhones’ release.

The initial version of Apple Intelligence will focus on text summarization, generating email and message responses, and photo editing. While these features were impressive during testing, they align closely with existing tools from Adobe and Google.

Additionally, the iPhone 16 Pro boasts a 48-megapixel ultrawide-angle camera, which is a notable upgrade for photography enthusiasts. Siri now features a refreshed interface, lighting up around the phone’s border when activated.

Additionally, you can interact with Siri via a new command bar for typing. The new iPhones are equipped with more powerful processors, which improves performance when switching between applications and handling tasks.

Apple claims the Pro Max model offers the best battery life ever for an iPhone—a notable upgrade, especially after experiencing battery drain on the 15 Pro during the event.

Pricing remains consistent with previous models: the iPhone 16 starts at $799, the Plus model at $899, the Pro at $999, and the Pro Max at $1,199. Preorders open on Friday, with shipping starting on September 20.