Apple iPhone 16 Plus
Where to buy
Checked Oct 23Monthly prices need a carrier plan, billed separately. Lowest first; stores can’t pay to rank higher.
Verdict
A large-screen phone with a solid battery life and useful features for daily users, without a massive cost.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“Although an improvement over last year's iPhone 15 Plus, the 16 Plus fails to impress in some key areas. We appreciate the addition of the Action Button and the Camera Control key as well as the significant improvement in the chip department. Still, those are hardly value-adding features for the mass user. At least not in a big way. Battery life, seems to be once again the Plus' key selling point and this year, it's chart-topping.”
“The Apple iPhone 16 Plus is once again a high-quality phone that now features a camera button, soon-to-be-available sophisticated AI software features, and even longer runtimes.”
“Apple's iPhone 16 Plus offers a pleasing mix of performance, battery life, and size, making it a less expensive alternative to the costlier Pro Max for those who want the best battery life.”
“The iPhone 16 Plus starts at $899 for the base 8/128GB model. There's little to no reason to upgrade if you already own an iPhone 15 Plus (or even the iPhone 14 Plus) device. The biggest changes are the Camera Control button and the new A18 chipset, but we don't think these can justify the switch. Of course, Apple Intelligence is another reason to hop on the iPhone 16 series train, but at the moment its features are still either in beta or coming soon. Now, if you're coming from an older iPhone device and want to get a taste of all the new AI features, the Camera Control button, and have some power on tap without paying the Pro Max price, the iPhone 16 Plus could be a nice alternative.”
Testing & benchmarks
Watch before you decide
In Depth
Design
The iPhone 16 Plus impresses with its updated design. It uses aerospace-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight and durable. This finish reduces fingerprint marks, keeping it clean.
Its vertical camera module is a departure from previous models, allowing for spatial video capture. Users appreciate the feeling of “a sleek aluminum unibody case,” according to Notebookcheck.
The ergonomic shape and rounded corners ensure comfort, despite its large size. With an IP68 rating, it withstands dust and water exposure.
Display(s)
The iPhone’s 6.7-inch screen ensures you see crisp details and true colors. Its Super Retina XDR display shows everything in fine detail.
Reviewers find its brightness improved, peaking at 2,000 nits, which helps in sunny conditions, though “outdoor visibility remains a challenge” according to Notebookcheck.
The 60Hz refresh rate can make scrolling feel less smooth, a letdown when watching videos or gaming, with Tom’s Guide noting other phones offer higher refresh rates at this price point.
Its big screen is a strong point for those who enjoy watching content or editing photos on the go.
Performance
The iPhone 16 Plus excels with Apple’s A18 chip, showcasing notable speed improvements. It powers through demanding apps and games, making it feel responsive in every use.
Reviewers highlight its impressive ability to handle any general task without noticeable lag, making it suitable for a wide array of users.
“A remarkable upgrade in both CPU and GPU performance,” experts note, emphasizing that its hardware can manage upcoming Apple Intelligence features seamlessly.
Software & Storage
iOS 18 brings a new level of customization to the iPhone 16 Plus, letting you place app icons and widgets anywhere on your home screen with ease.
You can modify the Control Center, add colored app icons, and engage with the new Widgets placed throughout the interface. PCMag notes this flexibility as a welcome improvement.
Though Apple Intelligence features will roll out in October, experts anticipate significant enhancements like improved Siri responsiveness and AI-powered photo editing tools.
Cameras
The iPhone packs a 48MP main and 12MP ultrawide camera, delivering detailed and vibrant photos in varying conditions. The Camera Control button simplifies quick access and adjustments for capturing moments effortlessly, though it requires a firm touch to master all functions as noted by TechRadar. Night photography impresses, providing visibility in almost total darkness, turning “night vision” into reality, as shown in our tests.
While lacking a telephoto lens, reviewers agree the detailed photos and intuitive camera interface make the experience enjoyable for most users.
Battery
The iPhone 16 Plus offers one of the longest-lasting batteries in a smartphone. With a 4,674mAh battery, you can expect more than 21 hours of continuous video streaming. It’s ideal for users who dread a midday shutdown.
Experts highlight how “Apple doesn’t disappoint with its long-lasting battery life,” offering peace of mind for busy individuals.
Traditional charging might feel sluggish at 20W, but the 25W MagSafe wireless charging option delivers a significant speed boost, letting you quickly juice up without wires.
Audio
Apple’s iPhone 16 Plus continues to impress with its enhanced audio capabilities. The dual stereo speakers deliver warm and balanced sound, and you’ll notice distinct instrument separation during music playback. This makes it ideal for watching films or playing music, enhancing your entertainment experience.
When it comes to calls, reviewers from Notebookcheck affirm, “Call quality via the earphones and microphones is very good,” ensuring whoever you’re speaking to hears you clearly in any setting. This is especially valuable during lengthy, important conversations.
Additionally, the new Audio Mixing feature, inherited from the Pro models, allows for post-capture audio adjustments in video recordings. You can tweak sound levels to your liking, adding a personalized touch to your videos without extra equipment.
The Bottom Line
This phone offers a larger screen experience that feels lighter and more comfortable for extended use.
You’ll enjoy the addition of the Action and Camera Control buttons, enhancing user interactivity and camera flexibility. Reviewers have noted “a pleasing mix of performance, battery life and size” (PCMag), which makes this device a practical choice for daily tasks.
While it lacks a high refresh rate, the display remains bright and vibrant, making it a viable option for entertainment and productivity on a budget.
What people actually want to know
How much does the Apple iPhone 16 Plus cost?
The Apple iPhone 16 Plus launched at $899 USD. Street prices change, so see current deals.
When was the Apple iPhone 16 Plus released?
The Apple iPhone 16 Plus was released on September 20, 2024.
How long does the battery last on the Apple iPhone 16 Plus?
The Apple iPhone 16 Plus scored 18h 49m in GSMArena's endurance test (well above average). It packs a 4,674 mAh battery.
How repairable is the Apple iPhone 16 Plus?
The Apple iPhone 16 Plus scores 7.0/10 on iFixit's repairability scale: highly repairable. Read the full teardown.
Is the Apple iPhone 16 Plus water resistant?
The Apple iPhone 16 Plus carries an IP68 rating.
Note: water resistance degrades over time and manufacturer warranties typically don't cover liquid damage.
Does the Apple iPhone 16 Plus support wireless charging?
Yes, the Apple iPhone 16 Plus supports wireless charging. It supports up to 25W wireless charging.
Does the Apple iPhone 16 Plus have a headphone jack?
No, the Apple iPhone 16 Plus does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Apple iPhone 16 Plus support 5G?
Yes, the Apple iPhone 16 Plus supports 5G connectivity.
Does the Apple iPhone 16 Plus have NFC?
Yes, the Apple iPhone 16 Plus has NFC. You can use Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pair with Bluetooth accessories.
Questions & answers
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