iPhone 16 rumours: What we know so far

What are the latest iPhone 16 rumours?

With Apple's keynote approaching, the tech world is buzzing with iPhone 16 rumours. While details will only be confirmed once Apple takes the stage, leaks have hinted at exciting updates for the iPhone 16 lineup. 

The iPhone 16 is expected to introduce several changes, including slightly larger screens for the iPhone 16 Pro models, a new "Capture" button, and the powerful A18 chip. Though Apple may surprise us with additional features, these iPhone 16 Pro rumours are the most talked about as the event nears. Here's a breakdown of what we might see, from battery improvements to AI-powered features.

Battery life and size

One of the top iPhone 16 Pro Max rumors suggests a slightly larger battery. The iPhone 16 Pro Max may increase its battery capacity to 4,747 milliamp-hours (mAh), up from 4,422 mAh in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This modest 5% increase, paired with the more efficient A18 chip, could result in longer battery life—potentially adding an hour or two of usage.

There’s also talk of a shift from the L-shaped battery to a rectangular design in the Pro models. While this could improve space efficiency, it’s not a revolutionary change in the smartphone industry. As for charging, reports indicate that the iPhone 16 Pro series may support 40W wired charging and 20W MagSafe charging, which would be nice for reducing charging times if true.

AI integration: iPhone 16's leap forward

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to feature more prominently in the iPhone 16, with Apple Intelligence rumoured to be part of the upcoming iOS 18 update. While AI advancements are becoming more common across the industry, Apple’s rumoured improvements may help Siri handle more personalized requests and provide better tech support.

However, these AI features, while useful, aren’t exactly ground breaking when compared to similar developments from other brands. The improvements in Siri, like helping proofread emails or rewording messages, would simply bring it up to speed with current trends in AI technology. Regardless, it is a welcome addition to the iPhone 16 ecosystem.

Action button: customisation for all iPhone 16 models

The Action button, introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro models, is rumoured to be replacing the traditional mute switch on all iPhone 16 models. This button allows users to customise its function—whether launching the camera, turning on the flashlight, or enabling Focus modes.

Design-wise, the button will sit on the left side of the device, just above the volume controls, giving you easy access when needed. This move seems aimed at offering more flexibility and control, especially for users who like to personalise their phone experience. Many phones have offered customisable buttons in various forms, so this seems like a logical step for Apple.

A18 chipset: powering the iPhone 16 series

Apple is expected to release two versions of its A18 chipset: the standard A18 for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, and the A18 Pro for the Pro models. These chips are rumored to be built on TSMC’s 3nm process, offering incremental improvements in power and efficiency.

The A18 Pro is expected to come with a stronger Neural Engine, which could enhance AI-driven tasks like gaming, multitasking, and other high-performance activities. While these improvements are designed to increase efficiency and processing power, their full impact will become clearer after the official announcement.

Product size: iPhone 16 Pro rumours

Rumours suggest that Apple may increase the screen sizes of the iPhone 16 Pro models, with the iPhone 16 Pro possibly growing to 6.3 inches from 6.1 inches, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max to 6.9 inches from 6.7 inches. While this will give users more screen real estate, it’s not a significant leap in terms of display technology, but gives users more options to match their preferences.

Apple is also rumoured to reduce bezel size slightly using new Border Reduction Structure (BRS) technology, which would create a larger display area without significantly changing the phone's overall size.

As for the iPhone 16 camera rumours, no major overhauls have been reported, but there may be tweaks in the form of improved image stabilisation and software upgrades that make use of the enhanced AI capabilities of the A18 chip. Expect improved night mode performance and faster processing when capturing high-resolution images.

iPhone 16 colour rumours: A fresh coat of paint

Apple’s iPhone 16 lineup is expected to offer a new set of colours, giving users a bit more variety compared to last year. For the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, we might see options like black, white, blue, green, and pink, with the colours rumoured to be a little richer and more saturated. These choices offer a nice balance for those looking for something vibrant but not over the top—though Apple’s not exactly going wild with the palette.

As for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, the colour options are expected to stay on the elegant side. Rumours suggest black, white titanium, natural titanium, and a new bronze hue called “desert titanium.” Apple might also be refining the finish on these titanium models for a sleeker, glossier look, providing a bit of shine without veering into flashiness. While the colours themselves may not steal the show, they should complement the premium feel of the Pro models nicely.

iPhone 16 camera rumours: The next big thing

If there’s one thing Apple loves, it’s making that camera bump... well, bumpier. Rumour has it that the iPhone 16 may shake things up with a new vertical camera layout on the standard models, bringing back a design last seen in the iPhone 12. This setup could improve functionality for capturing 3D video, potentially a nod to Apple Vision Pro. And yes, there’s likely a fresh new case design to go with it—because how else would Apple keep accessory makers on their toes?

On the Pro side, Apple is reportedly upping its game with an upgraded 48MP ultrawide camera sensor, a big leap from the current 12MP. This could mean sharper macro shots and better portrait mode, so if you’re into zooming in on tiny details, this one’s for you. There’s also talk of a new anti-reflective coating for the Pro models’ lenses to reduce lens flare, because nothing ruins a perfect sunset photo like streaks of unwanted light. It’s almost as if Apple is finally saying, "We see your flare, and we’re not having it."

Final thoughts

With Apple's keynote just around the corner, the iPhone 16 is expected to bring some moderate upgrades. While features like a slightly larger battery, better AI integration, and a customisable Action button are interesting, they don’t represent a dramatic departure from previous models. As always, Apple’s new iPhone is likely to generate buzz, but these changes seem to reflect a continuation of trends rather than a major leap forward.

If you're thinking about upgrading to the latest iPhone, you can always sell your old iPhone with Back Market using our iPhone Trade-in service, to help make upgrade more cost-efficient whilst doing the planet a big favour!

At the same time, it's also good to know that the price of the more recent iPhone models will consequently fall in price too after the release of the new iPhone 16 - so don't hesitate to shop around first when the new refurbished iPhone prices are released for the iPhone 15, 14, and 13 series.