For over a decade, tech giant Apple has hosted its annual September keynote, where the company unveils its latest products, software, and general updates. Having since grown into the main event through which the next iPhone is hard-launched, this year was no different, as CEO Tim Cook took the stage to announce the company’s next generation of smartphones.
Dubbed (you’ve guessed it) iPhone 16, the new device boasts a range of upgraded features, all aimed at improving performance, user experience, and functionality. And, it comes in pink—as well as white, teal, and ultramarine—though the new colorways are only available on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models.
Yet, as expected, internet users were quick to voice their frustrations, with many arguing that the new model isn’t significantly different from its predecessors, carries an inflated price tag, and renders older devices obsolete unnecessarily. In short, from die-hard fans to tech critics and everyday users, the consensus seems to be that Apple could’ve skipped this release rather than push out a new model just for the sake of it.
Add to that the situation in Congo, where Apple continues to face scrutiny for its reliance on cobalt mining, a critical component in their batteries, which often involves child labor and poor working conditions. The ethical concerns surrounding Apple’s supply chain have resurfaced with the release of the iPhone 16, adding fuel to the fire for critics who argue that the company’s push for new models isn’t just unnecessary but also comes at a human cost.
Apple just keeps making the same products over and over again thinking their customers will keep buying them.
-Sent from my new iPhone 16 Pro Max
— Douglas A. Boneparth (@dougboneparth) September 9, 2024
Curious about all the buzz surrounding the iPhone 16, we’ve gathered everything you need to know to decide if Apple should have skipped this release. From key upgrades to release date, price, and main new features, below, a rundown to help you decide if the iPhone 16 lives up to the hype—or if it’s simply another incremental update in a shiny new package.
When is it coming out?
Pre-orders are expected to start on Sept. 13, with availability beginning on Sept. 20. While there may be a slight delay for customers in the region, it shouldn’t be too long after that before the iPhone 16 becomes available in the Middle East and North Africa.
How many iPhone 16 models will there be?
According to Tim Cook, four new iPhones will be made available, each one coming with specifics and features of their own. The list of new devices reads as follows: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Max.
How much will they cost?
For US customers, the iPhone 16 starts at $799, with the iPhone 16 Plus priced at $899, the iPhone 16 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 16 Max at $1,199. We’ll have to wait and see how these prices will translate in other regions, including the Middle East and North Africa, where factors like taxes, import fees, and currency exchange rates could lead to price differences.
What are the main new features?
Per Cook’s speech, the iPhone 16 should be around 30% more powerful than its predecessor, offers a better battery life, includes a new capture button for a more camera-like experience, and will integrate AI functionality, though the latter will roll out progressively after launch. And that’s pretty much the gist of it—so unless you’re still using a really old iPhone, you’re probably fine with your current model, especially if you already have access to ChatGPT or similar AI apps.
