The much-anticipated iPhone 16 family has hit the shelves, and early reviews are pouring in. From exciting new features to some unexpected challenges in Europe, Apple is once again at the centre of global discussions. Here’s a closer look at the latest iPhone developments, new case designs, iOS updates, and how the European market is reacting.
iPhone 16 Pro Reviews: Small Tweaks, Big Impact
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are garnering attention for their improved features. While the changes seem incremental, the new Camera Control button is being hailed as a game-changer. With larger screens, smaller bezels, and enhanced optical zoom, these devices are solid step-ups from their predecessors.
David Phelan from Forbes reviewed the iPhone 16 Pro and highlighted the impact of the Camera Control button. He noted, “The Camera Control is a game-changer. Tap once to launch the camera from standby, even while pulling it from your pocket. Tap again to capture photos or videos. The learning curve is shallow, and the results are terrific. This is easily the best way to shoot on an iPhone.”
For avid iPhone photographers, this new button offers a seamless and responsive way to capture moments, making it a standout feature.
Equal Power for All iPhone 16 Models
Another major shift this year is the introduction of Apple’s new A18 chip, featured in all iPhone 16 models. Both the standard and Pro models are equipped with the A18 architecture, narrowing the gap between them.
Phelan explained how this change gives even the standard models a noticeable speed boost. “Apple has created an all-new processor this year, the A18, and a souped-up version called the A18 Pro for the iPhone 16 Pro. This might have given the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus more power than they otherwise would have had.”
By standardising the chipsets, Apple has brought the regular iPhone models closer to the Pro versions in terms of performance.
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iOS 18: New Features with a Cautious Approach
Apple also rolled out iOS 18, the latest software update that brings a host of new features. However, the highly-anticipated Apple Intelligence, a generative AI system, will only debut in iOS 18.1. For now, users can enjoy the latest software without diving into AI-driven features.
Interestingly, Apple also updated iOS 17 to version 17.7. This update caters to users who prefer not to adopt major new releases immediately but still want security patches. With this dual approach, Apple is addressing the needs of cautious consumers.
Apple Intelligence Blocked in Europe
However, not all iPhone users will be able to experience Apple Intelligence. Due to legal concerns related to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple has temporarily blocked its generative AI system from iPhones in Europe. This decision effectively splits the iPhone 16 family in two, with European customers missing out on some key features until legal clarity is achieved.
Apple is playing it safe in Europe by holding off on this significant software launch. European users will need to wait until the company and regulators come to an agreement.
Sleep Apnea Detection with Apple Watch
Apple continues to innovate in health tech, with the Apple Watch 9, Watch 10, and Watch Ultra now cleared to help diagnose sleep apnea. The FDA has approved the wearables as “over-the-counter devices to assess risk of sleep apnea.” However, Apple is quick to clarify that these devices are not diagnostic tools. Instead, they will prompt users to seek formal diagnoses from healthcare professionals.
The addition of sleep apnea detection places Apple in competition with other wearable tech brands like Withings and Samsung. This health feature underscores Apple’s commitment to making its wearables more integral to everyday wellness.
iPhone 16 Case: A Touch of Innovation
Apple’s design team has also introduced a new capacitive case for the iPhone 16. The Camera Control button posed a challenge for traditional case manufacturers. To address this, Apple has created a seamless capacitive design with seven layers. This allows users to control the Camera button without pushing directly on the phone.
This clever design ensures the same tactile experience as using the phone itself, offering a flush and smooth feel for users who prefer a case.
Chips Made in America
Finally, Apple’s focus on US-based chip manufacturing is paying off. Through its collaboration with TSMC, the company has started producing the A16 chip in Arizona. This development is a direct result of the US government’s $39 billion CHIPS for America Fund.
Forbes contributor Tim Culpan expressed surprise that Apple decided to manufacture its most advanced chip on US soil, noting, “The fact that they went for the most advanced chip they could manage on US soil, in terms of both technology and volume, shows Apple and TSMC want to start big.”
Conclusion
With its iPhone 16 launch, Apple has once again pushed the boundaries of mobile technology. Whether it’s innovative hardware features like the Camera Control button, advancements in chip manufacturing, or health tech updates, Apple remains a dominant force. Yet, as European users face delays due to legal hurdles, it remains to be seen how these challenges will shape Apple’s future in the global market.
