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iPhone 16, Pro & Pro Max: Next-Level Innovation or Just Another Upgrade?

Updated: Sep 21

Written by Adam Roy Pedersen

iPhone16 Pro & iPhone16 Pro Max

two hands holding out phones, left phone is bigger than the right phone
iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max - Apple

Apple’s back with another round of shiny new tech, and the iPhone 16 lineup is leading the charge, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Whether you’re currently rocking the iPhone 15 or you’re due for a major upgrade, the real question is: What’s new, and is it worth dropping cash on the latest and greatest from Apple? We’re diving into all the juicy details, comparing stats, breaking down the differences between models, and, most importantly, how it stacks up against the iPhone 15.


iPhone 16 Series: Key Stats and Features

All versions of the iPhone 16 pack some serious heat, with Apple refining their tech even further. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting with each model.


iPhone 16:

6 smartphones side by side in different colours
iPhone 16 - Apple
  • Display: 6.2-inch ProMotion OLED with 240Hz refresh rate. Say goodbye to lag; it’s all about ultra-smoothness here.

  • Processor: Powered by the A18 Bionic chip, 20% faster than the A17 with improved AI processing and energy efficiency.

  • Camera: 48MP dual-lens system, featuring improved Night Mode, 8K video, and better stabilization.

  • Battery Life: Up to 27 hours of video playback, thanks to the efficient A18.

  • Storage: Starting at 256GB and up to 2TB.

  • USB-C: Yes, and it’s faster than last year with Thunderbolt 4 transfer speeds.

  • OS: Running on iOS 18, featuring AI-powered widgets and advanced automation.

  • Design: Slimmer bezels, matte back finish, and Sapphire Crystal Glass for tougher screen durability.


iPhone 16 Pro:

  • Display: 6.5-inch ProMotion OLED, same 240Hz refresh rate, but with better HDR support and brightness levels (up to 2200 nits).

  • Processor: A18 Pro chip, an enhanced version with 10% more power for intense multitasking and heavy applications.

  • Camera: A 48MP triple-lens system with LiDAR 2.0, periscope zoom (10x optical zoom), and better low-light performance.

  • Battery Life: About 30 hours of video playback.

  • Storage: Starts at 512GB, maxes out at 2TB.

  • USB-C: Thunderbolt 4, just like the base model but with even faster charging options.


iPhone 16 Pro Max:

two smart phones in nice lighting
iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max - Apple
  • Display: 6.8-inch ProMotion OLED, same specs as the Pro but larger and with 2500 nits max brightness – perfect for outdoor viewing.

  • Processor: A18 Pro Max, a slightly faster variant optimized for high-end gaming, multitasking, and AR.

  • Camera: Same 48MP triple-lens with periscope zoom but with additional ProRAW enhancements, giving you pro-level control over every shot.

  • Battery Life: A beast at 35 hours of video playback.

  • Storage: Same as the Pro, with a 2TB option.

  • USB-C: Same Thunderbolt 4, but the Pro Max model also comes with 50W fast wireless charging.


Sales and Market Impact

Initial reports show that the iPhone 16 lineup, especially the Pro and Pro Max versions, are blowing up pre-order numbers, especially in high-demand markets like China, India, and the U.S. Analysts predict Apple could move upwards of 70 million iPhone 16 units by the end of 2024, with the Pro and Pro Max models accounting for the bulk of those sales due to their appeal to content creators and tech enthusiasts.


iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16 Series: What’s the Difference?

Here’s the meat of the discussion – should you upgrade from iPhone 15 or is the iPhone 16 worth the hype? Let’s compare them side-by-side.


1. Display Tech

  • iPhone 15: Pro models have 120Hz refresh rate with ProMotion, excellent but standard.

  • iPhone 16: Boosts the refresh rate to 240Hz, making everything feel smoother. Pro Max model also gets higher brightness for better outdoor performance.

What to Look For: If display smoothness and brightness are a big deal for you, the iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max are game changers. For gamers and media lovers, the 240Hz refresh rate is a major upgrade.


2. Processor Power

  • iPhone 15: A17 Bionic chip is no slouch, still plenty fast for most users.

  • iPhone 16: The new A18 Bionic and A18 Pro chips bring a 20% performance boost, with a focus on AI and energy efficiency.

What to Look For: Power users running heavy apps, gaming, or editing video on the go will see a performance bump with the A18 Pro/Max chip. If you’re after the best AI-driven enhancements, the 16 lineup has a clear edge.


3. Camera Upgrades

the three lens camera of a smartphone zoomed in closely with a dark background
iPhone 16 Pro - Apple
  • iPhone 15: 48MP dual-lens on the base models, 48MP triple-lens on Pro models with great low-light and video recording.

  • iPhone 16: iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max introduce 10x periscope zoom, better LiDAR 2.0, and ProRAW for professionals. The base model still gets solid improvements with Night Mode and 8K video.


What to Look For: If you’re into photography or video content creation, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the beast to beat. The periscope zoom is a killer feature for getting those far-off shots, and LiDAR 2.0 improves AR and low-light captures.


4. Battery Life

  • iPhone 15: Respectable battery life, around 20–24 hours depending on the model.

  • iPhone 16: Battery life is improved across the board, with the Pro Max hitting 35 hours of video playback.

What to Look For: For power users who can’t always charge up during the day, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a clear advantage. If you’re the type who’s always draining your battery, the extra hours will be a lifesaver.


5. Design & Durability

  • iPhone 15: Still stunning, but the glass is prone to scratches, and bezels are slightly thicker.

  • iPhone 16: All models come with Sapphire Crystal Glass for extra durability and slimmer bezels. The Pro models have a matte finish to prevent fingerprints and smudges.

What to Look For: If you’re clumsy or just want a sleeker look, the tougher glass and refined design of the iPhone 16 make it a worthy upgrade.


6. Storage Options

  • iPhone 15: Starts at 128GB and maxes out at 1TB.

  • iPhone 16: Starting at 256GB and maxing out at 2TB.

What to Look For: Creators and media hoarders will appreciate the extra storage capacity, especially if you’re shooting in 8K or using your phone for pro-level projects.


7. Charging and Ports

  • iPhone 15: USB-C introduced, with limited charging speeds.

  • iPhone 16: Full-on USB-C with Thunderbolt 4, drastically improved transfer speeds. The Pro Max also supports 50W wireless charging.

What to Look For: If you’re transferring large files frequently or need faster wireless charging, the iPhone 16 Pro Max takes the win here.


two smartphones side by side vertically
iPhone 16 - Apple

Final Verdict – Should You Upgrade?

So, should you jump on the iPhone 16, Pro, or Pro Max?

  • Upgrade to iPhone 16 if:You want cutting-edge camera tech (especially periscope zoom), increased battery life, or faster refresh rates for an ultra-smooth display. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models are particularly appealing for content creators, power users, and anyone needing that extra juice for multitasking or gaming.

  • Stick with iPhone 15 if:You’re content with the A17 chip performance and don’t need the additional zoom or battery life. If you’re happy with the 120Hz display, upgrading might not be necessary unless you really crave the Pro Max's advanced features.


No matter what, Apple has continued to bring major fire with the iPhone 16 series, delivering more power, better cameras, and smarter design tweaks that push the boundaries of what smartphones can do. Choose wisely, but whichever model you pick, you’ll be walking away with some serious tech.





The Uncommon Breed

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