iPhone 16 upgrade guide: differences between iPhone 16 and iPhone 15

If you haven’t yet cleared thousands of shekels in your bank account for the new iPhone, you might want to wait: two days after the pre-sale, the new iPhones were also stolen in Israel, and the companies are preparing for the next shipments that will already arrive in the garages. But how necessary is the iPhone 16, and who can settle for a legacy device?

Why upgrade?

1. The new A18 processor
Apple always raises the bar with processor upgrades in each new model, and the iPhone 16 is equipped with an A18 processor. It provides a significant improvement in performance, especially in situations that require high processing power such as gaming, video and photo editing, and running heavy applications. The processor also improves battery management, ensuring longer usage time. For years, users have complained that with the upgrade of the iOS version, Apple apparently “plans” a deliberate slowness in the devices, in order to make users purchase new devices with the improved processor. So far there are no reports of a slowdown, but with the introduction of artificial intelligence, the devices may crawl and make you think twice.

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2. ProMotion 2.0 screen
The Pro version of the iPhone 16 offers a ProMotion 2.0 screen with a refresh rate that reaches up to 120Hz, which provides a smooth user experience both when scrolling and when watching video. The screen displays a higher resolution and improved color accuracy, which is suitable for multimedia lovers or users who perform design work. Apple is also increasing the screen sizes and reducing the margins. The Pro Max device will have a screen size approaching that of the iPad mini.

3. Camera innovations
iPhone 16 comes with an upgraded camera system, including a new sensor that provides low-light photography capabilities at an unprecedented level. In addition, there is a new ability to shoot video in 8K, making the iPhone 16 an excellent choice for content creators or those who want to record personal moments in the highest quality. Also, the side button added by Apple, which includes sensing and mechanical capabilities that will enable multi-dimensional operation in photography, will facilitate speed and simplicity in photography.

4. Improved fast charging
After the switch to USB-C in the iPhone 15 model, the iPhone 16 continues with the new connection but improves it significantly. The device supports faster charging and much higher data transfer rates, which makes it easier for users who work with large files or who need fast charging during the day.

5. Upgraded AR/VR experience
The iPhone 16 is designed to work more seamlessly with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. Apple is pushing the boundaries of these technologies, and the users who will especially benefit from this upgrade are AR game enthusiasts or business users who perform virtual simulations.

Why not upgrade?

1. The differences are not revolutionary for iPhone 15 users
If you have an iPhone 15, upgrading to the iPhone 16 may not be revolutionary enough to justify the investment. The innovations in the processor, camera and fast charging are nice, but for users who are satisfied with the current performance of the iPhone 15, the upgrade may feel unnecessary. iPhone 15 already offers most of the key features, including a USB-C connection and an excellent camera system.

2. The upgrade prices
Upgrading to the iPhone 16 comes with a hefty price tag, especially if you’re interested in the Pro and Pro Max versions. If your current iPhone is still in great shape, you may prefer to wait for the next model or check out cheaper options like the iPhone 15 Pro or a refurbished model of the iPhone 14.

3. For iPhone 14 and 13 owners, an upgrade may feel minor
The differences between an iPhone 13 or 14 and an iPhone 16 aren’t big enough to warrant an upgrade for many users. The camera, screen and performance of the previous models are still very impressive, especially if you’re not a heavy app user or a professional photography enthusiast. For most users who own iPhone 13 and 14 devices, the upgrade may feel like only a marginal addition to day-to-day performance.

4. Existing battery life does not warrant an upgrade
iPhone 16 does bring improvements in battery management, but if you’re using an iPhone 14 or 15, the existing battery life already provides very good performance. For those who prefer to wait for more significant battery innovation, upgrading now to the iPhone 16 may feel premature.

5. Difficulty adapting to minor changes in design and interface
Fans of the design of the iPhone 15 will not find major changes in the iPhone 16. Apple maintains the same design line with only minor improvements, such as a change in the glass back or the position of the camera. If design is not your priority, the upgrade may seem unnecessary.