10 Under-the-Radar Features in Apple’s iPhone 16 Series and More from the Glowtime Event

Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 16 series at its Glowtime event, introducing a range of new devices and updates that emphasize AI capabilities, larger displays, and more competitive pricing, especially in India. Alongside the iPhone 16 series, Apple also launched the Apple Watch Series 10 and AirPods 4, while making minor updates to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and AirPods Max. Here are nine key aspects of the new lineup that Apple didn’t highlight extensively but are important for potential buyers to know.

1. Larger Screens in iPhone 16 Pro Models

One of the most significant changes in the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models is the increase in screen size. The iPhone 16 Pro now features a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 6.9-inch display. These are larger than their predecessors, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which had 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch displays, respectively. Additionally, Apple has reduced the borders on these devices, making them the thinnest ever on an Apple product, and claims these are "by far our best iPhone displays ever."

2. Lower Launch Prices for iPhone 16 Pro Models in India

For the first time, Apple has introduced a new iPhone series with a lower launch price compared to its predecessors. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are priced Rs 15,000 lower than the iPhone 15 Pro models in India. This price reduction is largely due to duty cuts announced in the recent Union Budget and Apple’s decision to manufacture the iPhone 16 Pro models in India. This is the first time Apple has made its Pro models in India, marking a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy.

3. New Processors Across the Entire iPhone 16 Lineup

After two years, Apple has upgraded the processors across its entire iPhone lineup. All four new iPhones—iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max—are equipped with new processors. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are powered by Apple’s brand-new A18 SoC, while the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max come with the A18 Pro chip. This upgrade promises better performance, enhanced AI capabilities, and improved power efficiency across the board.

4. New Capacitive Camera Control Button

The iPhone 16 series introduces a new capacitive button on the side, dubbed the "Camera Control." This button is designed to make capturing photos and videos more intuitive. It offers touch-sensitive functionality—pressing it captures a photo, while sliding your finger along the button adjusts the zoom level. This new feature is part of Apple’s broader effort to enhance the user experience for mobile photography, making it easier to capture moments on the go.

5. Redesigned Camera Layout in iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus

For those looking for a design change, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus offer a new vertical camera layout, departing from the horizontal layout that has been used since the iPhone 13 models. This design tweak not only gives the iPhones a fresh look but also aligns them with current trends in smartphone design. The new camera layout is not just an aesthetic change but also signifies Apple's continuous effort to innovate and differentiate its products in a crowded market.

6. Major Upgrade to Apple Watch with Series 10

The Apple Watch turns 10 in 2024, and to celebrate, Apple has introduced its biggest-ever upgrade with the Apple Watch Series 10. This new model features what Apple calls the brightest-ever display on an Apple Watch. The Series 10 is also the first Apple Watch to come with a wide-angle OLED display, which allows users to view the watch more easily at an angle. Additionally, the Series 10 is Apple’s thinnest-ever watch, and it includes new health features like the ability to detect signs of sleep apnea. For the first time, the Apple Watch is also available in a Titanium finish, offering a more premium and durable option for users.

7. **No Successors for Apple Watch Ultra 2 and SE 2

In a surprising move, Apple did not announce successors for its two smartwatch series: the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Apple Watch SE 2. The Apple Watch Ultra, a rugged smartwatch aimed at athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, was launched in 2022 and received an update in 2023. However, this year, Apple only introduced a new color for the Ultra 2, along with some minor updates. Similarly, the Apple Watch SE 2, which is the affordable variant, was not updated, despite expectations for a third-generation model this year.

8. Minor Updates for AirPods Max Despite Four-Year Gap

Apple’s premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max, were launched in 2020 and have not received a significant update in four years. This year, Apple made a few minor changes, including new color options and support for USB-C, but did not introduce a full refresh. This means that those waiting for a next-generation version of the AirPods Max will have to wait longer. Despite the lack of major updates, the AirPods Max continue to be a popular choice for those seeking high-quality audio and premium design.

9. Base Storage Remains Unchanged in iPhone 16 Series

Unlike in previous years, there is no change in the base storage for any of the new iPhone models. The iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro all start with 128GB of storage, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at 256GB. This decision to maintain the same base storage as the iPhone 15 series might be a disappointment for users hoping for more storage options at the entry-level, especially given the increasing demands of apps and media on device storage.

10. Non-Pro AirPods Now Feature ANC for the First Time

For the first time, Apple has added Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to its non-Pro AirPods models. The AirPods 4, which come with an open-ear design, feature upgraded microphones, the H2 chip, and advanced computational audio to reduce environmental noise. These new features aim to deliver a more natural listening experience, with intelligent features like Transparency mode and Adaptive Audio, which blends ANC and Transparency mode based on the user’s environment. The new AirPods 4 also include Conversation Awareness, which lowers media volume when the user starts speaking to someone nearby, making them a more versatile and user-friendly option for everyday use.

In summary, while Apple’s Glowtime event focused heavily on AI and display improvements, there are many other noteworthy changes in the new iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4 that consumers should consider. From larger screens and new processors to redesigned cameras and enhanced audio features, Apple’s latest lineup offers a range of upgrades and innovations that will appeal to a broad audience.