The iPhone 16 is the latest addition to the Apple family, releasing September 20th, 2024, for £799. It is the first Apple smartphone to be designed specifically for Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI system, which will be released in December 2024, so there are a few big changes to the device.

With the phone officially available to the public, we thought we’d give our thoughts on the new tech so you can decide whether it’s worth the heavy price tag, or if it’s one to miss. Let’s take a look.

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Will the iPhone 16 be different?

Let’s begin with the most obvious differences, the physical changes. The iPhone 16 has had some alternative design choices that differ from previous models. The camera lenses’ are now in a pill-shaped, vertical layout whereas before they were in a diagonal line. As well as this, the colours for the iPhone 16 are different, ultramarine, teal, pink, white and black of course, the iconic Action Button was back on this model, much like it was with the iPhone 15.

Overall, we like these new changes. The vertical lens layout is great, as it looks neater and takes up less space on the back of the phone. It gives the same feeling as the iPhone 12 model, so it’s great for a sense of nostalgia.

But speaking of the camera lens’, it’s time to check out the biggest design change relevant to the camera, the Capture Lens.

What is camera control on iPhone 16?

The Capture Lens is a long, flat button on the side of the iPhone which allows the user to touch, zoom, click and generally improve camera photography. It simplifies how you use your camera tools, sliding your finger across the surface to adjust the exposure, depth of field and more. When clicking the lens, it opens the camera app, tapping it starts a recording and lightly pressing it opens the controls like zoom and exposure change. When you double-press the lens the camera settings appear to select another camera.

We don’t understand why this feature has been included. The Action Button from the iPhone 15 can access the camera, and for years users have used the screen to access the multiple camera tools, we don’t need a specifically designed button to do so. In our opinion, it should have replaced the Action Button, as now there are 5 buttons on the side of the iPhone which makes it appear cluttered.

Specs:

• Battery life: Up to 22 hours of video playback
• Screen size: 6.1”
• Storage: Up to 512GB
• Display: Super Retina XDR Display
• Colour choices: 5
• Chipset: A18
• Camera: Advanced dual-camera system, 48MP, 12MP, 12MP.
• New feature: Capture lens
• Release date: 20th September 2024
• Price: £799

Opinions:

Overall, it has been a positive reception for the iPhone 16. Usually, the iPhones receive some negative reactions due to the lack of changes when it comes to design. This time, the phone has had quite a few obvious changes and it’s great to see a refreshing difference with the iPhone 16. Whilst we do think the Capture Lens is unnecessary, it is great to see a different and unique feature be added.

One thing we think needs reassessing with the Apple iPhone launches is the price of the phones. With only slight changes to designs and some internal updates, the phones are very similar to their previous models, and we believe the price range of these devices is unnecessary and too much.

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Conclusion:

But still not keen on the iPhone 16? That’s fine! We have plenty of other smartphones on our website waiting for you. And if the iPhone 16 does take your fancy, why not trade your old phone in with Envirofone Trade, we accept any type of phone, even if it's damaged! Earn some cash today.