Apple iPhone 16

A 60Hz screen and 2x optical zoom hold it back, but pound for pound it's a fine alternative to the Pro

- JOHN VELASCO

PRICE 128GB, £666 (£799 inc VAT) from apple.​com/uk

It's often hard to get excited about a new iPhone when there's a better equipped Pro version launched alongside it. But this year's model has a surprising amount in common with its upmarket sibling: it gains the action button that was previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro (see issue 351, p62), and it also uses the same new camera controls as the iPhone 16 Pro (see overleaf). Even better, it's in line to receive the full set of Apple Intelligence features when they arrive. Could the standard iPhone be the smart buy of this generation?

Displayin' around

The iPhone 16 is the same size as the iPhone 15 (see issue 351, p62), with a 6.1in screen; for an extra £100 the iPhone 16 Plus has a 6.7in screen and a bigger battery but is otherwise identical.

Although the size hasn't changed, the case is now made of "aerospace grade" aluminium, which makes it a touch lighter and purportedly more durable. Apple claims the Ceramic Shield glass is tougher than before too, though my review unit got noticeably scratched after being stuffed in my bag a few times; I strongly recommend a screen protector to keep your iPhone looking pristine.

There's also a new set of more vibrant colour options; namely pink, teal and ultramarine, alongside standard black and white. With the Action button on the left side of the phone and the new camera control on the right, in terms of physical interaction it's all but identical to the iPhone 16 Pro. In fact, I think I prefer the iPhone 16: not only do I love the new colours, I find the slightly smaller size of the standard model makes it easier to use one-handed than the Pro...