Apple’s newest phones are official. As expected during its “Glowtime” event on Monday, the company unveiled its latest iPhones, with the base models predictably called the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. Pricing remains the same as last year’s phones, with the 128GB iPhone 16 starting at $799 and the 128GB iPhone 16 Plus starting at $899.

As expected, the new iPhones will have a redesigned camera bump on the rear that aligns the sensors vertically, similar to how they were on the back of the iPhone X, XS, XR, 11 and 12 (the iPhone 13, 14 and 15 had rear cameras that were aligned diagonally). By vertically aligning the cameras, they should be able to capture spatial photos and video for viewing through Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

For those looking to improve their photo and video capture, there’s now a dedicated shutter button on the side of the device. Apple calls this button the “camera controls.” Apple has long claimed that the iPhone is on a par with DSLRs, and that a dedicated shutter could make it even easier to capture moments and memories. By swiping your finger along the side, you can now “customize various camera features.”

Clicking the button takes a photo, while sliding it adjusts the zoom. Double-pressing it lets you switch modes or settings. Apple says the “camera controls” will be usable in third-party apps. The main camera remains a 48-megapixel snapper, while there’s a new ultra-wide sensor that Apple says can capture “up to 2.6x more light.”

The camera button isn’t the only new addition to the iPhone 16 line, as both models get an “Action” button similar to what was added to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max last year. This button lets you set shortcuts to open specific apps or tasks (like setting your phone to “Do Not Disturb,” opening the flashlight, or setting up an instant coffee order from Dunkin’).

The displays on the new phones will be similar to those of 2024’s iPhone 15 and 15 Plus: 6.1 inches on the smaller model and 6.7 inches on the larger Plus. Those looking for larger displays should check out the new iPhone 16 Pro (now 6.3 inches) and 16 Pro Max models (now 6.9 inches). The Pro models are also expected to feature improved cameras and faster processors.

All iPhone 16 models run iOS 18 on the new A18 processor, which can take advantage of the new Apple Intelligence AI features. Apple says the iPhone 16 will have a “larger battery,” but the company didn’t reveal how long the battery will last during the presentation. Like the iPhone 15 line, the phones will be able to physically charge via USB-C.

A new “Visual Intelligence” feature, accessible by holding down the “camera control” button, lets you use the camera and Apple Intelligence to scan the world around you. Apple says it can identify objects for shopping on Google, or use AI services like ChatGPT to help with homework.

In terms of color, the new base models of the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will be available in white, black, ultramarine (blue), teal (green) and pink.

This story is still in development.

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