The iPhone 16 Pro is not the loudest device in Apple’s lineup, but that’s precisely its appeal. While the iPhone 16 Pro Max is for those who crave attention with its larger-than-life design, the iPhone 16 Pro caters to those who appreciate subtle luxury. It’s the “cashmere sweater” of smartphones, refined and functional without being flashy. For users who want top-tier performance in a sleek, pocket-friendly form, the iPhone 16 Pro is the perfect blend of comfort and power.
Design: Timeless, Yet Familiar
At first glance, the iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t seem radically different from its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro. The same textured titanium frame and frosted glass back are back, and the device retains a sleek, premium feel. However, there’s a slight increase in screen size, from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, which strikes the ideal balance between usability and portability. It feels solid in the hand and slides easily into a pocket, making it the go-to for people who want a high-performance phone without the bulk.
While Apple sticks with a safe color palette for the Pro models, many users might crave something a bit bolder. A touch of experimentation with color could add personality to what is otherwise an impeccably designed phone.
The New Camera Control Button: Promising but Imperfect
A significant new feature on the iPhone 16 Pro is the Camera Control button. Designed to evoke the feel of a traditional camera shutter, this button brings up a quick menu of camera utilities like zoom and exposure. While it sounds great on paper, it’s not as intuitive as it could be. Positioned in a slightly awkward spot, it can be challenging to access whether holding the phone vertically or horizontally. And unlike a real camera shutter button, it lacks the ability to half-press for focus and exposure.
That said, the Camera Control button hints at future innovations. It’s expected to work more seamlessly with Apple Intelligence, a set of AI-powered tools that will eventually enhance the phone’s camera capabilities. As it stands, though, it’s more of an evolving feature than a groundbreaking one.
Camera: The Power of Incremental Upgrades
Apple’s camera remains one of the biggest draws of the iPhone Pro models, and while the iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t revolutionize photography, it offers notable improvements. The 48MP ultra-wide camera and 48MP main Fusion Camera with “zero shutter lag” provide sharp, vibrant images. The new 5x tetra-prism zoom—previously reserved for the Pro Max series—delivers fantastic close-up shots, making it perfect for wildlife photography and detailed portraits.
However, the iPhone 16 Pro occasionally struggles with overexposure in bright sunlight. But in low-light situations, it performs significantly better than its predecessor, capturing crisp, detailed images even in challenging conditions. Its ability to balance shadows and bright areas is exceptional, ensuring you get well-rounded shots in almost any environment.
On the video side, the 4K at 120 fps upgrade is a standout. The level of clarity and smoothness this offers makes it hard to go back to anything else once you’ve experienced it. Whether you’re a casual shooter or a budding videographer, the iPhone 16 Pro’s camera system doesn’t disappoint.
Performance: Powerful Yet Practical
Equipped with the A18 Pro processor, the iPhone 16 Pro is lightning-fast, though many users may not notice the difference in everyday tasks compared to the iPhone 15 Pro. However, the real benefit comes in the form of improved battery life. Even with 5G enabled and Apple Intelligence (still in beta) running, the iPhone 16 Pro lasts almost a full day—an improvement over the 15 Pro.
For heavy users or those constantly on the move, this boost in battery life is invaluable. However, if you’re looking for a device that can last beyond 12 hours of heavy usage, the iPhone 16 Pro Max remains the better choice due to its larger battery.
Apple Intelligence: A Glimpse of the Future
One of the iPhone 16 Pro’s most anticipated features is Apple Intelligence, an AI-powered suite that integrates deeply into iOS. Although still in its early stages, this feature promises to transform how users interact with their devices, offering real-time transcription in apps like Notes and Voice Memos, and even during phone calls.
While Apple Intelligence is not yet fully available worldwide, its potential is clear. For professionals like journalists, the new transcription tools could be game-changers, and as the AI features become more sophisticated, they will likely set a new standard for how smartphones assist with day-to-day tasks.
Final Thoughts: Subtle, Powerful, and Practical
The iPhone 16 Pro is not a flashy device, but that’s its strength. It’s designed for users who value substance over spectacle—those who appreciate high-end performance in an elegant, understated package. The Camera Control button and Apple Intelligence hint at exciting future capabilities, but even without these fully matured, the iPhone 16 Pro excels where it matters: performance, camera quality, and user experience.
If you’re after a phone that offers quiet luxury with a touch of refinement, the iPhone 16 Pro is a perfect choice. It may not turn heads like the Pro Max, but for those who notice the details, it’s a masterpiece in its own right.