Apple’s iPhone 16 lineup has been one of the more polished, AI-forward, and performance-optimized generations to date – at least on the hardware side of things. With improved cameras, smarter software, and expanded options like the new iPhone 16e, Apple has quietly reshaped its smartphone strategy while setting the stage for even bigger shifts with the iPhone 17.
The biggest issues with the iPhone 16 series launch so far has been the difficulties Apple has had around the Apple Intelligence launch and the lack of evolution of Siri. There’s hope, however, that upcoming iOS releases (especially when iOS 26 launches in September 2025) will begin to address that.
iPhone 16 Lineup & Pricing
The iPhone 16 family now includes five core models, expanding Apple’s reach across flagship and mid-range segments:
- iPhone 16 (6.1″) and iPhone 16 Plus (6.7″) launched in September 2024, powered by the A18 chip, new Camera Control button, Action Button, and USB-C charging.
- iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″) and iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9″) feature the A18 Pro chip, 5x telephoto zoom, ProMotion 120Hz displays, and LIDAR for enhanced AR and photography.
- iPhone 16e debuted in February 2025 as a $599 budget powerhouse—effectively replacing the SE line—with the A18 chip, Apple’s new in-house C1 modem, and dual cameras (main + 2x telephoto). Despite the price, it punches well above its weight class.
This lineup offers something for everyone—from casual users to pro photographers—while embracing USB-C and preparing users for a more AI-centric future.
Core Features & Hardware Advancements
💨 Performance & Apple Intelligence
All iPhone 16 models pack 8GB of RAM and leverage Apple’s A18 (or A18 Pro) chips built on TSMC’s second-gen 3nm process. The result is:
- Up to 60% faster Neural Engine performance
- Vastly improved on-device AI processing
- Support for new features like Apple Intelligence, Genmoji, and Visual Intelligence
Apple Intelligence now plays a central role in the iPhone experience, powering context-aware Siri, smart summarization, and object recognition in the Camera app. The 16 series fully supports these features out of the box—making them the most future-proof iPhones yet.
📸 Camera Upgrades
- The Camera Control Button gives quick access to photo and video functions, including zoom, exposure lock, and burst mode.
- Pro models offer 5x optical zoom, finally bringing high-end zoom capabilities to the smaller Pro (not just the Max).
- Photographic Styles have been refined for skin tone accuracy, low-light adjustments, and cinematic color grading.
- Even the iPhone 16e includes a 2x telephoto lens, a rare feature in this price range.
🖥️ Display & Design
- Standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus use 60Hz OLED panels.
- Pro models boast 120Hz ProMotion with Always-On Display and Dynamic Island.
- iPhone 16e retains the older notch (no Dynamic Island) but benefits from a compact, power-efficient design and USB-C charging.
🔋 Battery & Charging
- iPhone 16 Plus delivers 10–12 more hours of video playback than the iPhone 15 Plus.
- MagSafe is back across the board, offering up to 25W wireless charging.
- USB-C brings faster wired charging and improved accessory support.
- iPhone 16e offers impressive longevity with a rated 26 hours of playback—surpassing many flagships in endurance.
Market Impact & Early Success
- The iPhone 16 was Q1 2025’s best-selling smartphone globally, driven by strong demand for the Pro models and the affordability of the iPhone 16e.
- In India, the iPhone 16 (128GB) saw dramatic price drops—available for as low as ₹24,900 through trade-in offers and card discounts—demonstrating Apple’s aggressive market penetration strategy.
- The iPhone 16e quickly climbed to #6 in global smartphone sales by March 2025, appealing to both former SE users and budget-conscious buyers looking for a powerful, modern iPhone.
Looking Ahead: iPhone 17 & Beyond
Apple is already preparing the next evolution of the iPhone—expected to launch in September 2025.
Rumors suggest a major aesthetic and functional redesign:
- The iPhone 17 Air will introduce a thinner chassis, rounded edges, and ultra-light materials—possibly a mix of titanium and glass composites.
- It may include Wi-Fi 7, upgraded Apple C2 modem, and improved heat dissipation for AI-driven tasks.
- Expect continued Apple Intelligence enhancements, live on-device translation, a desktop mode when docked via USB-C, and improved AirPods integrations like live-call captioning and gesture-based camera control.
- The lineup may also go eSIM-only worldwide, expanding Apple’s efforts to simplify carriers and future-proof its network strategy.
iPhone 16 Comparison Table
Here’s the full comparison table for the iPhone 16 Series:
| Model | Display Size | Chip | RAM | Refresh Rate | Camera | Battery Life (Video) | Charging | Notable Features | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 6.1″ | A18 | 8GB | 60Hz | Dual (Wide + Ultra-Wide) | ~22 hrs | USB-C + MagSafe | Camera Button, Action Button, Apple Intelligence | $699 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 6.7″ | A18 | 8GB | 60Hz | Dual (Wide + Ultra-Wide) | ~28 hrs | USB-C + MagSafe | Larger battery, Camera Button, Action Button | $799 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 6.3″ | A18 Pro | 8GB | 120Hz ProMotion | Triple (Wide + Ultra-Wide + 5x Telephoto) | ~23 hrs | USB-C + MagSafe | ProMotion, LIDAR, 5x Zoom, Always-On Display | $999 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 6.9″ | A18 Pro | 8GB | 120Hz ProMotion | Triple (Wide + Ultra-Wide + 5x Telephoto) | ~29 hrs | USB-C + MagSafe | Max Zoom + Display, Pro Features | $1,199 |
| iPhone 16e | 6.1″ | A18 | 8GB | 60Hz | Dual (Wide + 2x Telephoto) | ~26 hrs | USB-C | C1 Modem, Budget Flagship, Replaces SE Line | $599 |
Final Take
The iPhone 16 series is a powerhouse generation—capable, intelligent, and forward-looking. Whether you’re after the raw performance of the Pro Max or the affordability of the 16e, this lineup strikes a rare balance between polish and progress.
With WWDC 2025 teasing a complete AI overhaul in iOS 26 and the iPhone 17 promising slimmer, smarter design, Apple’s mobile roadmap is becoming clearer: fewer gimmicks, more intelligence, and tighter ecosystem cohesion.
iPhone 16 Lineup: Screen Sizes
The iPhone 16 lineup introduces exciting changes to screen sizes across all models. The standard iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Plus offers a larger 6.7-inch screen for those who prefer more viewing space. The Pro models have received the most significant upgrades: the iPhone 16 Pro has increased from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, while the Pro Max boasts an impressive 6.9-inch display. Additionally, the 16e model, which will be released on February 28, 2025, also features a 6.1-inch screen.
Despite the larger screens, the phones are not bulkier. Apple has successfully reduced the bezels around the displays, especially on the Pro models. The iPhone 16 Pro is slightly taller and wider than its predecessor, measuring about 3mm taller and 0.9mm wider than the iPhone 15 Pro, yet it provides more screen real estate for viewing content and using apps.
All iPhone 16 models feature the Dynamic Island design and HDR display technology, which enhances the visual experience regardless of the size chosen. The standard iPhone 16 remains the most compact and lightweight option, measuring 5.81 by 2.82 by 0.31 inches and weighing just 6 ounces, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pocketable device.
Here’s the latest information on the screen sizes for the iPhone 16 lineup, including the iPhone 16e:
- iPhone 16: 6.1 inches (with a resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels)
- iPhone 16e: 6.1 inches (with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels, or 6.06 inches measured as a standard rectangle)
- iPhone 16 Plus: 6.7 inches (with a resolution of 2796 x 1290 pixels)
- iPhone 16 Pro: 6.3 inches (with a resolution of 2622 x 1206 pixels)
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9 inches (with a resolution of 2868 x 1320 pixels)
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models feature larger displays compared to their predecessors, while the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus retain the same sizes as the previous generation. The “e” model often indicates a more budget-friendly option, and in this case, it shares a similar screen size with the standard iPhone 16.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone 16 Pro models feature larger screens than previous generations, with the Pro increasing to 6.3 inches and Pro Max to 6.9 inches.
- Apple has reduced bezel sizes across the lineup, allowing for larger displays without significantly increasing the overall device dimensions.
- All iPhone 16 models include Dynamic Island and HDR display technology, enhancing the visual experience regardless of screen size preference.
iPhone 16 Screen Size Innovations
Apple has expanded screen dimensions across the iPhone 16 lineup while reducing bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. The new models feature optimized display sizes that enhance both productivity and entertainment.
Comparing Dimensions with Previous Models
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus maintain their predecessors’ 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch OLED displays respectively, but with improved resolution. The iPhone 16 features a 2,556 × 1,179 pixel display, a slight upgrade from previous generations.
The Pro models received more significant changes. The iPhone 16 Pro grew from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, making it 3mm taller and 0.9mm wider than the iPhone 15 Pro. The bezels were also reduced to maximize screen area.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max now boasts a 6.9-inch display, up from the 6.7-inch screen on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This makes it the largest iPhone display ever created.
iPhone 16 Screen Size Comparison:
| Model | Screen Size | Previous Generation |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 6.1″ | Same (iPhone 15) |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 6.7″ | Same (iPhone 15 Plus) |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 6.3″ | 6.1″ (iPhone 15 Pro) |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 6.9″ | 6.7″ (iPhone 15 Pro Max) |
Benefits of a Larger Screen
The expanded displays on the iPhone 16 lineup deliver several practical advantages for users. The larger screens provide more space for Apple Intelligence features, allowing for improved text editing and content creation.
Photo editing benefits significantly from the increased screen real estate. Users can see more detail when adjusting images, and the high-resolution OLED displays maintain excellent color accuracy and HDR performance.
The iPhone 16 Pro models’ larger displays make multitasking more efficient. Users can view more content without scrolling, whether checking emails, browsing websites, or using split-screen applications.
Media consumption is also enhanced. The larger screens provide a more immersive experience when watching videos or playing games, with the reduced bezels creating a more edge-to-edge feel.
Day-to-day tasks feel less cramped, particularly on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models where the extra space makes typing more comfortable and reduces input errors.
Technical Enhancements and Features
The iPhone 16 introduces several key technological improvements focused on display quality and camera functionality, while also integrating new software capabilities through iOS 18.1.
Camera and Display Synergy
The iPhone 16 models feature a significant camera redesign with realigned cameras that enhance photo and video capabilities. The new layout supports the Camera Control button, which gives users more precise control over photography functions. This physical button allows for quick access to camera settings and improved stability when taking photos.
The display works seamlessly with these camera improvements. The iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch screen, while the iPhone 16 Plus offers a larger 6.7-inch display. Both models include the Dynamic Island feature and HDR display technology for improved visual quality.
One limitation worth noting is that the standard iPhone 16 models still use 60Hz displays, while higher refresh rates remain exclusive to the Pro versions. This might disappoint users who expected all 2024 models to feature smoother scrolling.
Operating System Integration
iOS 18.1 brings several new features that take advantage of the iPhone 16’s hardware capabilities. The operating system is designed to work specifically with the Camera Control button, allowing for intuitive photography workflows not available on older models.
Siri has received significant upgrades in iOS 18.1, with improved voice recognition and expanded capabilities. The assistant now integrates better with the camera system, allowing for voice-commanded photo taking and video recording.
Battery life optimization is another focus of the new operating system. iOS 18.1 includes intelligent battery management features that adjust power consumption based on usage patterns, helping to extend daily battery performance.
The ultrawide camera benefits from software enhancements that improve image processing and low-light performance. These improvements make the iPhone 16 a compelling upgrade for photography enthusiasts who want better camera quality without stepping up to the Pro models.
Frequently Asked Questions
The iPhone 16 lineup introduces several changes to display size and features compared to previous generations. These updates include larger screens on Pro models, reduced bezels, and enhanced display technologies.
How does the iPhone 16’s display size compare to its predecessors?
The iPhone 16 maintains a similar display size to the iPhone 15, featuring a 6.12-inch diagonal screen when measured as a standard rectangular shape. This represents a slight increase over previous generations.
The Pro models show more significant changes. The iPhone 16 Pro has been upgraded to a 6.3-inch display, larger than the 6.1-inch screen found on the iPhone 15 Pro.
Apple has also reduced the bezel size across the iPhone 16 lineup, giving users more screen space without drastically increasing the overall device dimensions.
What are the dimensions of the iPhone 16 screen in inches?
The standard iPhone 16 features a 6.12-inch Super Retina XDR display diagonally. As Apple notes, the actual viewable area is slightly less due to rounded corners and the notch.
The iPhone 16 Plus comes with a larger display that matches previous Plus models, continuing to offer more screen real estate for those who prefer larger phones.
The iPhone 16 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers the largest screen in the lineup.
Can you break down the iPhone 16 screen size versus price point?
The 6.12-inch iPhone 16 represents the entry point to the latest lineup and comes at the lowest price point among the new models.
The iPhone 16 Plus offers a larger display at a mid-range price, making it ideal for users who want more screen space without paying for the premium features of the Pro models.
The iPhone 16 Pro with its 6.3-inch display comes at a higher price point, justified by premium materials, enhanced display technology, and additional camera capabilities.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, with the largest screen in the lineup, carries the highest price tag but delivers the most immersive viewing experience.
What are the new features associated with the iPhone 16’s screen?
The iPhone 16 lineup features a tougher Ceramic Shield material, providing improved durability against drops and scratches compared to previous generations.
A notable improvement is the new minimum brightness of 1 nit, allowing for more comfortable viewing in extremely dark environments without straining the eyes.
The displays are optimized for Apple Intelligence, the company’s new personal intelligence system that enhances user experience across various applications and functions.
The reduced bezels contribute to a more immersive viewing experience while maintaining a similar overall device footprint.
How does the iPhone 16 Plus screen size differ from the iPhone 16 Pro Max?
The iPhone 16 Plus offers a large display that caters to users who want more screen space for media consumption and productivity without needing all the premium features.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains the flagship with the largest display in the lineup, equipped with all the premium display technologies Apple offers.
Despite their size similarities, the Pro Max weighs slightly more than the Plus. According to the search results, the iPhone 16 Pro weighs 7.03 ounces (199 grams), the same as the iPhone 16 Plus.
What are the pixel density and resolution specifications for the iPhone 16 display?
All iPhone 16 models continue to feature the Super Retina XDR display technology, known for its high contrast ratio and vibrant color reproduction.
The pixel densities remain high across the lineup, ensuring crisp text and detailed images regardless of which model users choose.
The displays support HDR content and maintain the high standards for color accuracy that Apple products are known for in the industry.
