iPhone 16 Pro: Wait for iPhone 17 or Buy Now? | Six Months Later

Summary

In this detailed review of the iPhone 16 Pro, the speaker shares their six-month experience with the device, highlighting the shift from the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max to the more compact 16 Pro. They discuss the device’s impressive camera system, AI features like Apple Intelligence, and the user-friendly design. While the 16 Pro offers excellent performance and battery life, the speaker recommends waiting for the iPhone 17, which promises further improvements and a new design. Despite some setbacks with AI features, the iPhone 16 Pro remains a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, high-performance smartphone.

Takeaways

• 😀 The iPhone 16 Pro offers a smaller, more comfortable size compared to the 15 Pro Max, making it easier to use with one hand and more pocket-friendly.
• 😀 The 16 Pro has a stunning design with thinner bezels and a larger screen size, making it a great option for those who want a more compact phone with a premium look.
• 😀 Apple’s Dynamic Island feature on the iPhone 16 Pro is a standout, offering a more intuitive and visually appealing way to interact with notifications.
• 😀 The iPhone 16 Pro’s camera performance is top-notch, with the ability to capture high-quality photos and videos, including 4K 120fps video and Apple Pro RAW for advanced editing.
• 😀 Despite excellent hardware and camera capabilities, Apple Intelligence (AI) on the iPhone 16 Pro is still underdeveloped, with many promised features yet to be fully realized.
• 😀 Features like the writing tools for emails and priority mail sorting are useful but not perfect, highlighting the current limitations of Apple’s AI system.
• 😀 Battery life on the iPhone 16 Pro lasts up to 27 hours of video playback, which is slightly less than the 29 hours offered by the 15 Pro Max but still sufficient for all-day use.
• 😀 The 1TB storage option is great for content creators, but the reviewer struggled with storage issues, leading to a switch to the 2TB iCloud plan for better storage management.
• 😀 The reviewer notes that while Apple Intelligence is marketed heavily, it's still a work in progress, with some features like Siri and AI-driven tools still needing improvement.
• 😀 It’s recommended to wait for the iPhone 17 series, as it’s expected to offer new features and design changes, and the 16 series will likely drop in price, making it a better deal in the future.

Q & A

What makes the iPhone 16 Pro different from the iPhone 15 Pro Max?

The iPhone 16 Pro has a smaller form factor, with a display size increased to 6.3 inches compared to the 6.1 inches on the iPhone 15 Pro, while the Pro Max's display is 6.9 inches. The iPhone 16 Pro is lighter and more compact, making it easier to handle and carry around compared to the larger Pro Max models.

Why does the user prefer the iPhone 16 Pro over the 15 Pro Max?

The user prefers the iPhone 16 Pro for its smaller size, lighter weight, and improved fit in their hand and pockets. They enjoy the ability to use it one-handed, and it's more comfortable to carry, especially when adding accessories like a case or MagSafe wallet.

How does the iPhone 16 Pro's camera perform in everyday use?

The camera on the iPhone 16 Pro is described as excellent, producing high-quality images and videos. The user highlights its ability to take stunning photos during their travels around the world. Features like Apple Pro RAW are used for editing, and the camera is reliable for both casual point-and-shoot photography and more detailed, professional work.

What issues did the user experience with Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16 Pro?

The user mentions that Apple Intelligence, particularly features like Siri 2.0 and AI-based functionalities, have faced delays and complications. They noted that while some features are useful, like mail prioritization and writing tools, others like Jimoji and Image Playground are less practical and often gimmicky.

What features of Apple Intelligence does the user find useful?

The user finds the mail prioritization and writing tools most useful, as they help in organizing emails and improving writing quality. They also appreciate the camera control feature for adjusting exposure on the fly. Additionally, the cleanup tool to remove people from backgrounds in photos is a helpful feature.

Is the iPhone 16 Pro's battery life satisfactory for daily use?

Yes, the battery life of the iPhone 16 Pro is deemed satisfactory, with the phone lasting about 27 hours of video playback. While it’s a slight downgrade compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max's 29 hours, the user finds it performs well enough to last through the day, especially with the efficiency of the A18 chip.

How does the user manage storage on the iPhone 16 Pro?

The user opted for the 1 TB storage model to accommodate their needs as a content creator. They mention running low on storage and eventually subscribing to the 2 TB iCloud storage plan to free up space on the device. This allows them to maintain backups while managing large files efficiently.

What are the key reasons the user suggests waiting for the iPhone 17 instead of buying the iPhone 16 Pro now?

The user suggests waiting for the iPhone 17 because it is only six months away, and the iPhone 16 Pro will likely drop in price by then. The iPhone 17 will offer newer features and enhancements, making it a more appealing choice, even if the 16 Pro remains a great device.

What feature does the user think Apple should focus on for future iPhones?

The user believes that Apple should focus on improving Apple Intelligence, as it is still not fully realized. Despite the advanced AI features being marketed, there are still significant delays and issues with their full implementation. They hope that Apple will refine these features for future iPhones.

How does the user feel about the iPhone 16 Pro's design and materials?

The user is pleased with the design of the iPhone 16 Pro, especially the black titanium color, which remains sleek and attractive. While it picks up fingerprints, the material still looks good and holds up well. They also appreciate the overall premium feel and durability of the device.