iPhone 16 Ultra? Fresh off the release of the 2023 iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, Apple has already set the rumor mill abuzz with speculations surrounding the much-anticipated 2024 iPhone 16 ultra lineup.
Significant transformations are on the horizon for the iPhone 16 series, with Apple reportedly gearing up to enlarge the iPhone 16 Pro to 6.3 inches and the iPhone 16 Pro to an expansive 6.9 inches. This marks a notable shift in size, a departure from the status quo over the past few years. It’s important to note that these size modifications will be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models, while the iPhone 16 models are expected to retain the dimensions of their iPhone 15 counterparts.
Apple is also in the process of developing new A-series chips tailored for the iPhone 16 lineup. These cutting-edge chips will be crafted using the latest N3E 3-nanometer node technology. While the expectation is for improvements in both efficiency and performance, specific details regarding these enhancements remain undisclosed. Another intriguing prospect is the potential introduction of capacitive volume buttons, a power button, and an action button across all four iPhone 16 models. Rumors further suggest the inclusion of an additional mystery button, the purpose of which remains unknown at this juncture.
It’s essential to keep in mind that the information presented here is based on early rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 lineup. Given that there is ample time for Apple to revise its plans, these details may evolve as the company refines the design of its upcoming iPhone models.
Prototypes Unveiled for the iPhone 16 Design
Apple has developed three distinct prototypes for the iPhone 16 design, each featuring slight variations in functionality. Across all three prototypes, a vertically aligned camera is a consistent feature, poised to facilitate the recording of spatial video tailored for the Vision Pro headset.
Among the prototypes, one design showcases a pill-shaped iPhone X-style camera, while the remaining two incorporate designs boasting two distinct lenses. Notably, a specific prototype integrates haptic buttons inclusive of a unified volume button, while another introduces a dual-lens camera alongside standard mechanical volume buttons, a capacitive action button, and a novel capture button.
The prevailing expectation is that the third design, depicted in black in the accompanying images, will be the one Apple ultimately selects. This particular design comprises a vertically aligned rear camera, an additional “Capture” button on the right side for video recording, and a left-side mmWave antenna, positioned beneath the Action Button exclusively for users in the United States.
It’s essential to recognize that the colors featured in the images represent those Apple has experimented with during testing. As a result, pink, yellow, and black are potential color options for the standard iPhone 16 models.
These rendered images are crafted based on design insights from an internal source that shared information with MacRumors, specifically portraying the standard iPhone 16 models. It’s worth noting that the iPhone 16 Pro models, characterized by larger dimensions, will incorporate triple-lens camera systems and will also adopt the innovative Capture Button.
Size Evolution for iPhone 16 ultra or Pro
Multiple sources suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will boast expanded display sizes. The iPhone 16 Pro is anticipated to feature a 6.27-inch display (rounded to 6.3 inches), while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is projected to house a 6.85-inch display (rounded to 6.9 inches).
As the display sizes increase, the overall dimensions of the iPhone’s body will undergo a proportional expansion. Both models are expected to be taller and wider compared to the iPhone 15 Pro models. While the thickness will remain constant, a slight increase in weight is anticipated, attributable to the larger form factor.
| iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro | |
| Thickness | 8.25 mm | 8.25 mm |
| Height | 149.6 mm | 146.6 mm |
| Width | 71.45 mm | 70.60 mm |
| Display | 6.3″ (159.31 mm) | 6.1″ (155.38 mm) |
| Weight | 194 grams | 187 grams |
iPhone 16 Pro Max
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | iPhone 15 Pro Max | |
| Thickness | 8.25 mm | 8.25 mm |
| Height | 163.0 mm | 159.9 mm |
| Width | 77.58 mm | 76.70 mm |
| Display | 6.9″ (174.06 mm) | 6.7″ (169.98 mm) |
| Weight | 225 grams | 221 grams |
Anticipate no alterations in size for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, with these devices retaining the identical dimensions as the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
Advancements in Display Technology
The OLED panels of the iPhone 16 may incorporate micro-lens technology to enhance both brightness and power efficiency. Micro-lens arrays (MLA) utilize a consistent arrangement of billions of lenses within the panel to minimize internal reflection. This reduction in internal reflection enhances perceived brightness without a corresponding increase in power consumption.
Moreover, the OLED displays featured in the iPhone 16 lineup are expected to be more power-efficient, courtesy of advancements in materials.
Potential Introduction of iPhone 16 Ultra
Apple is contemplating the launch of a high-end variant, tentatively named the iPhone 16 “Ultra,” alongside the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Positioned as the premier iPhone offering, the “Ultra” model could showcase additional camera enhancements, a larger display, and possibly even a portless design.
Haptic Buttons Development
Initially planned for the iPhone 15 Pro models, Apple intended to introduce solid-state volume, power, and mute buttons to replace physical buttons. However, due to unresolved technical challenges, this feature was omitted from the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
Recent speculations suggest a delay in implementing solid-state buttons until 2024, potentially integrating them into the iPhone 16 models. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the technology is likely to be featured in the iPhone 16 Pro, with the possibility of adopting the unified button design initially rumored for the iPhone 15 Pro models.
Solid-state buttons emulate the functionality of physical buttons without actual physical movement. Instead, a haptic vibration mimics a button press, providing the sensation of pressing down. Apple already employs solid-state technology for the Touch ID Home button on the iPhone SE and the trackpad on MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models.
While solid-state technology enhances resistance to dust and water, it requires additional hardware within the iPhone. Previous rumors suggested the addition of two extra Taptic Engines to power solid-state buttons in the iPhone 15 Pro models, a likely implementation in the iPhone 16 Pro models.
Apple may employ solid-state technology for both the Action Button and a new capacitive button, retaining standard buttons for volume and power control. Despite some rumors aligning with Apple’s original plans for the iPhone 15 Pro models, an analyst at Barclays, citing insights from Apple supplier Cirrus Logic, suggests that Apple may not introduce solid-state buttons in the iPhone 16.
Evolution of the Action Button
In the iPhone 15 Pro models, Apple introduced the Action Button, and come 2024, this feature is poised to extend to the standard iPhone 16 models. Apple’s 2024 vision includes an upgraded capacitive action button designed to provide haptic feedback upon activation, distinguishing itself from the conventional physical button. Additionally, rumors suggest a potential increase in size, with the button flush against the iPhone’s body.
The versatile Action Button, replacing the traditional mute switch, boasts a range of functionalities. It can perform various tasks such as activating the flashlight, launching the camera, initiating shortcuts, enabling or disabling a focus mode, utilizing Translate, toggling silent mode, and more.
Introduction of an Extra Capacitive Button
Internally tested versions of the iPhone 16 reveal the incorporation of an additional capacitive button known as the “Capture Button.” Positioned on the same side as the power button, this button occupies the space typically reserved for the 5G mmWave antenna in the United States. The mmWave cutout has consequently been relocated to the left side, beneath the volume buttons. Similar to the Power and Action buttons on the iPhone 16 models, the Capture Button is a capacitive button capable of detecting pressure and touch, providing haptic feedback during operation. Its primary function will be facilitating the capture of photos and videos.
Advancements in A-Series Chips
For the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, the deployment of an A17 chip is anticipated, albeit with a distinction from the A17 Pro chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Apple is set to utilize TSMC’s N3B process for the iPhone 17 Pro chip while opting for the more cost-effective N3E process for the standard “A17” in development.
TSMC’s N3B represents the original 3-nanometer node developed in collaboration with Apple, whereas N3E offers a more economical node characterized by lower transistor density, reduced efficiency, and higher yield.
Traditionally, Apple does not custom-design chips exclusively for standard iPhone models, often opting for the same chips as the Pro models or adopting the prior year’s iPhone model’s chip. While initial rumors hinted at labeling the chip in the standard iPhone 16 models as the “A17,” analyst Jeff Pu speculates that Apple might introduce the A18 and A18 Pro nomenclatures. According to Pu, all iPhone 16 models may feature some variant of the A18-series chip, with the likelihood of the N3E manufacturing process being uniform across all chips. There is also speculation that Pro chips may incorporate an extra GPU core not present in the standard chips.
Enhancements in Thermal Management
The forthcoming iPhone 16 models are poised to feature a revamped thermal design aimed at mitigating overheating concerns. Apple is actively developing a graphene-based thermal system for the iPhone 16 lineup, with the potential additional inclusion of a metal battery casing in the iPhone 16 Pro models to enhance heat dissipation. Notably, graphene boasts superior thermal conductivity compared to the copper traditionally used in iPhone heat sinks.
5G Modem Advancements
In a bid to elevate 5G connectivity, the iPhone 16 Pro models may incorporate Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem. This modem promises accelerated and more efficient 5G connectivity, with Qualcomm highlighting improvements in carrier aggregation. Furthermore, the combined sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G transceiver in the X75 occupies 25 percent less circuit board space and consumes up to 20 percent less power. Qualcomm’s X75 supports the “5G Advanced” standard, integrating AI and machine learning enhancements, potentially positioning the iPhone 16 Pro models as offering “5G Advanced” connectivity. On the other hand, rumors suggest that the standard iPhone 16 models will retain Qualcomm’s X70 chip, consistent with its usage in the iPhone 15 models.
Transition to WiFi 7
According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 16 Pro models may adopt WiFi 7 technology, representing the next generation of wireless connectivity. WiFi 7 is anticipated to deliver speeds of “at least 30” gigabits per second, with the potential to reach up to 40 GB/s. This technology supports 320 MHz channels and incorporates 4K quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) technology, resulting in speeds up to 2.4 times faster than WiFi 6 with an equivalent number of antennas. WiFi 7 promises faster maximum transfer speeds, reduced latency, and more reliable connectivity compared to its predecessor, WiFi 6.
Adoption of USB-C Technology
Apple is set to embrace USB-C technology starting with the iPhone 15 lineup, and this transition is expected to persist with the subsequent iPhone 16 models.
AI Advancements
The upcoming iOS 18 is rumored to introduce enhanced Siri features, leveraging robust language models. While many of these features will extend to all iPhones, cutting-edge generative AI capabilities could be exclusive to the iPhone 16 models. Reports from a reliable source suggest that iOS 18 will integrate new LLM features across iPhones, but on-device AI functionalities might remain a distinctive feature of the iPhone 16. This upgraded AI functionality may include refined interactions between Siri and the Messages app, the automatic generation of Apple Music playlists, integration with productivity apps for AI-assisted content creation, and more.
Enhanced Microphone Technology
Anticipated improvements in the microphone technology of the iPhone 16 models will complement the AI-enhanced Siri experience. The enhanced microphone is slated to boast improved water resistance and a superior signal-to-noise ratio, promising a substantially enhanced Siri interaction, according to insights from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Under Display Face ID Speculations
Initially, rumors circulated about the potential adoption of under-display Face ID technology in the iPhone 16 Pro models. However, recent developments suggest that this innovation may be postponed until 2025. The implementation of under-display Face ID is expected to maximize usable display space by eliminating the need for a full dynamic island.
While there are conflicting reports, with some sources like Korean site The Elec suggesting a potential introduction of under-display Face ID in 2024 with the iPhone 16 Pro models, display analyst Ross Young believes the technology might still be at least two years away. According to Young’s timeline, under-display Face ID might debut with the iPhone 17 Pro, leaving the iPhone 16 Pro models equipped with the existing Dynamic Island technology. When under-display Face ID eventually becomes available, it is projected to feature a circular cutout for the camera, a design akin to how manufacturers like Samsung handle front-facing camera technology.
Advancements in iPhone 16 Camera Technology
The prospective iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to incorporate an enhanced 48-megapixel Ultra Wide lens, offering improved image quality in low-light conditions. This upgraded lens is anticipated to operate similarly to the 48-megapixel Wide camera, employing pixel binning to merge data from four pixels into a single “super pixel,” resulting in superior image quality.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to feature a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera equipped with an eight-part hybrid lens, comprising two glass elements and six plastic elements. Significant enhancements are also anticipated for the telephoto and ultra-wide camera lenses, contributing to overall camera performance.
Noteworthy Changes in Camera Features
In 2024, both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max could see the inclusion of 5x Telephoto lenses, a departure from the previous limitation to the larger Pro Max variant.
Camera Layout Evolution
The standard iPhone 16 Ultra models are projected to adopt a vertical camera layout akin to the design seen in the iPhone 12, departing from the diagonal layout used in the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. This shift may facilitate spatial video recording using the ultrawide and wide cameras.
Potential Introduction of Super Periscope Technology
The iPhone 16 Ultra might introduce a super telephoto periscope camera, promising a significant increase in optical zoom capabilities. This information originates from a Weibo account that has previously provided accurate details, though additional confirmation from a reliable source is awaited.
The term “super” or “ultra” telephoto typically denotes cameras with a focal length exceeding 300mm. Given the current telephoto lens equivalent to a 77mm lens, the potential inclusion of a super telephoto periscope camera suggests a notable enhancement in zoom capabilities if the information proves accurate.
Advancements in Battery Technology
Speculations suggest that the iPhone 16 Ultra models will integrate stacked battery technology, a development that could lead to increased capacity and an extended lifespan. While stacked batteries are commonly utilized in electric vehicles and medical devices, their application in smartphones is an emerging technology. This innovation may coincide with the introduction of faster 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging for the iPhone 16 Ultra models. In November, an image purportedly showcasing the iPhone 16 Ultra battery surfaced, revealing a new design, an updated connector, and a capacity of 3355 mAh.
Price Considerations
Reports indicate that component prices for the standard iPhone 15 models reached record highs, reflecting a 16 percent increase compared to the iPhone 14 models. Although Apple absorbed the heightened production costs for the iPhone 15 lineup, there is speculation that the pricing strategy for the iPhone 16 Ultra may be adjusted to prevent adverse impacts on overall revenue.
Expected iPhone 16 Ultra Models Launch Date
The iPhone 16 Ultra models are anticipated to be released in September 2024, succeeding the 2023 iPhone 15 models.
Future iPhone Features
The incorporation of ProMotion technology, which facilitates refresh rates of up to 120 Hz on the iPhone’s display, is projected to extend to standard iPhone models starting in 2025. Until that time, ProMotion functionality will remain exclusive to the higher-end “Pro” iPhones.
Looking ahead to the iPhone 17 Pro Max expected in 2025, analyst Jeff Pu suggests the inclusion of a 48-megapixel telephoto lens optimized for the Vision Pro headset. However, specific details on how it interfaces with the Vision Pro remain undisclosed. Pu also speculates that the iPhone 17 Pro will house an Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip.
In the 2026 iPhone 18, Apple is anticipated to introduce both under-display Face ID and under-display front-facing camera technology. This innovation has the potential to eliminate the need for cutouts in the design, heralding the arrival of the first all-display iPhone design.
The Evolution of iPhone: A Decade of Innovation
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What are the rumored features of the iPhone 16 Ultra?
Advanced camera system, A-Series chips, OLED display, and possibly foldable technology.
When is the expected release date for the iPhone 16 Ultra?
While not confirmed, industry patterns suggest a fall release in the coming year.
How much will the iPhone 16 Ultra cost?
Pricing is speculative, but expect a premium for this flagship device.
Will the camera in the iPhone 16 Ultra be a significant upgrade over previous models?
Rumors point to substantial improvements, especially in low-light performance and detail capture.