Introduction
Apple has once again set the bar high with the launch of its latest iPhone, the iPhone 16 series, introduced in September 2024. This lineup includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Additionally, Apple has recently unveiled the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4 in February 2025, catering to budget-conscious consumers who want powerful performance at an affordable price.
In this in-depth review, we will explore every aspect of these new iPhones, from design and display to performance, cameras, battery life, and software. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of whether Apple’s latest offerings are worth upgrading to.
Design & Build Quality
iPhone 16 Series
Apple has refined its industrial design while keeping the core aesthetics that define the iPhone. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus maintain a sleek aluminum frame, while the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max feature a titanium body, which is lighter and more durable than previous stainless steel models.
- Sizes & Dimensions
- iPhone 16: 6.1-inch display
- iPhone 16 Plus: 6.7-inch display
- iPhone 16 Pro: 6.3-inch display
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9-inch display
One of the biggest physical changes this year is the introduction of the Camera Control Button, a dedicated hardware button on the Pro models designed for instant camera access and shutter control.
Another major change is the shift to USB-C charging ports, finally replacing Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector. This move complies with the EU’s new regulations and ensures better compatibility with other devices.
iPhone SE 4
The iPhone SE 4 adopts the iPhone 14’s design, bringing Face ID for the first time to the SE lineup while eliminating the classic Home Button. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display, a significant upgrade from the LCD panel of its predecessor.
Display & Screen Technology
Apple continues to lead the industry with Super Retina XDR displays, offering brighter screens and better energy efficiency.
- iPhone 16 & 16 Plus: 60Hz OLED displays with 1000 nits brightness
- iPhone 16 Pro & 16 Pro Max: ProMotion 120Hz LTPO OLED displays, reaching up to 2000 nits for incredible outdoor visibility
- iPhone SE 4: First-ever OLED screen on an SE model, though limited to 60Hz
The iPhone 16 Pro Max takes the crown for best display with its higher refresh rate, ultra-thin bezels, and exceptional brightness.
Performance & Hardware
The iPhone 16 series debuts the A18 Bionic chip, while the Pro models feature the more powerful A18 Pro.
Benchmarks & Real-World Use
Apple’s A18 Pro delivers up to 20% faster CPU performance and 30% improved GPU efficiency, making it ideal for gaming and creative workflows.
- iPhone 16 & 16 Plus: A18 chip, 6GB RAM
- iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max: A18 Pro chip, 8GB RAM
- iPhone SE 4: A18 chip, 8GB RAM
The Pro models also introduce hardware-accelerated AI processing, powering Apple Intelligence for on-device machine learning applications.
Camera System
iPhone 16 & 16 Plus
- Dual-camera system
- 48MP Main Camera + 12MP Ultra-Wide
- Improved Night Mode & Smart HDR
iPhone 16 Pro & 16 Pro Max
- Triple-camera system
- 48MP Main Sensor + 12MP Ultra-Wide + 5X Periscope Zoom (Pro Max)
- LiDAR scanner for better AR and Night Portraits
iPhone SE 4
- Single 48MP Camera (first for an SE model)
- Deep Fusion & Smart HDR
The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers the best camera experience, thanks to its periscope zoom and larger sensor, rivaling professional cameras in mobile photography.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery performance has been a major focus for the iPhone 16 series.
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: Biggest battery ever in an iPhone (estimated 30+ hours of usage)
- iPhone 16 & 16 Plus: 20-25% more efficient than iPhone 15 models
- iPhone SE 4: Improved battery life despite its smaller size
Charging Upgrades:
- USB-C Charging (finally!)
- Faster 35W charging on Pro models
- MagSafe & Qi2 support
Software & Features
The iPhone 16 series ships with iOS 18, introducing Apple Intelligence, which enhances Siri and brings AI-powered image generation, better text prediction, and contextual reminders.
Other software highlights include:
- Live Voice Cloning (for accessibility)
- AI-generated wallpapers
- Offline Siri processing (faster & more private interactions)
Pricing & Value
| Model | Storage Options | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | $799 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | $899 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | $1,099 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | $1,299 |
| iPhone SE 4 | 128GB, 256GB | $499 |
The iPhone SE 4 stands out as the best budget option, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the ultimate premium choice.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
✅ Buy if:
- You want top-tier performance & cameras (iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max)
- You need the longest battery life in an iPhone (iPhone 16 Pro Max)
- You’re looking for a powerful budget phone (iPhone SE 4)
❌ Skip if:
- You have an iPhone 15 Pro (not a major upgrade)
- You dislike large phones (Pro Max is quite big)
- You prefer Touch ID (SE 4 has Face ID only)
Apple’s iPhone 16 series brings solid upgrades without radical changes, but the Pro Max steals the show with its AI features, zoom camera, and long battery life. Meanwhile, the iPhone SE 4 makes high-end performance accessible at a lower price.
Would you upgrade to the latest iPhone? Let us know in the comments!
