Now that the iPhone 16 series has been released, let’s take a look at the differences in camera configuration and functions of the four new iPhones.
The sensor in the iPhone 16 main lens has been upgraded, which Apple calls the “Fusion Camera”. This new hybrid sensor is available for all four iPhone 16 models, adding a 2x telephoto function, providing an “optical quality” magnification for the main camera lens with a resolution of 12 million pixels. However, what Apple calls “optical quality” 2x zoom seems to be software-based.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are equipped with Apple’s “quad pixel” sensor, which increases the pixel density of the camera, helping to enhance details and reduce pixelation. Although specific details have not yet been announced, the sensor may be larger than that in the iPhone 15 Pro. The new sensor reads twice as fast as before and achieves zero shutter lag, supporting slow-motion video and Dolby Vision video recording at 4K 120fps.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are also equipped with a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, which can provide higher-resolution photos when capturing a wider range.
In addition, the iPhone 16 Pro has added a 16x optical zoom function, while the telephoto lens of the iPhone 16 Pro Max has not been significantly upgraded and still maintains the same 12-megapixel quadrature prism lens as last year.
Camera control buttons (all models)
All four iPhone 16 models have added a new camera control button, located in the lower right corner of the phone, designed to allow users to access various camera functions more quickly, including launching the camera app and taking photos with one click. Although the ultra-wide-angle lens of the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus is not 48 million pixels, it has also been upgraded with autofocus and support for a new macro photography mode, allowing users to capture more detailed close-up photos.
Spatial video recording (iPhone 16 & iPhone 16 Plus)
Spatial video recording, first introduced on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, is now also coming to iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. By switching the camera layout, the two cameras can work together to add depth to photos and videos, which can be enjoyed with a 3D-like effect on Apple Vision Pro.
4K 120fps video (iPhone 16 Pro & iPhone 16 Pro Max)
Thanks to the new quad-pixel sensor and A18 Pro chipset, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max support recording Dolby Vision HDR video at 4K 120fps, including regular video mode, slow motion, and ultra-high-quality ProRes mode.
Audio Mixing and Spatial Audio (Full Series)
Audio Mix and Spatial Audio features are available on all iPhone 16 models. Audio Mix makes it easier to record and edit sounds, using machine learning to focus on specific sounds and reduce background noise. The iPhone 16 Pro series is equipped with four studio-grade microphones for better audio performance. Spatial audio recording provides users with an immersive listening experience.
Visual Intelligence (All Series)
The Visual Intelligence feature uses the iPhone 16 camera and Apple Intelligence to allow users to scan and analyze real-world objects for product searches, text translations, and more. It is similar to Google Lens, but offers more advanced features, such as adding event dates directly from flyers to calendars.
