The iPhone 16 Pro from Apple hit the market a little over three months ago. I’ve been using it on a daily basis since, and while there’s a lot about it that impresses, it’s not without its flaws. Here’s a look at my experience with the latest flagship iPhone after three months of use.
Context on the iPhone upgrade
Before I share what I love and don’t love about Apple’s newest iPhone, keep these two points in mind:
- I typically purchase the newest iPhone each year, so my perspective heavily revolves around comparing the 16 Pro to the 15 Pro from last year.
- If you’re transitioning from a device other than the iPhone 15 Pro, you’ll discover far more exciting features in the 16 Pro than I did.
When viewed as an isolated device, there’s a wealth of detailed information about the iPhone 16 Pro. However, my experience is inevitably colored by my previous year’s device.
Positive aspects
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the iPhone 16 Pro in several areas. While there were features I anticipated loving, others exceeded my expectations significantly.
Here’s a list of the standout positives I’ve found in my iPhone 16 Pro:
- Enhanced battery life: Apple played down the improvements in battery life with the 16 Pro. This marks the first time I haven’t had any battery concerns, even on trips. It’s truly a game changer.
- 5x telephoto lens: I hesitate to mention this, knowing that the upcoming iPhone 17 Air won’t include a telephoto lens. However, the 5x zoom on the iPhone 16 Pro (I don’t lean towards the Pro Max) has been fantastic. I’ve captured so many moments I wouldn’t have been able to previously.
- 1 nit minimum brightness: The new 1 nit minimum brightness feature has been an unexpected favorite. Whenever I’m using my iPhone in bed next to my wife or baby, I’m grateful for this. The lower the screen brightness, the better.
- Camera Control enhancements after iOS 18.2: Initially, the Camera Control feature didn’t seem to work well for portrait photography, so I minimized its use. But with iOS 18.2, significant changes have made this feature a rapid Camera launcher and AI tool that I genuinely appreciate.
- Improved thermal performance: Unlike the iPhone 15 Pro, which frequently overheated, the 16 Pro has performed much better in that regard. I’ve only been unable to take a photo due to heat once—a common issue with my 15 Pro.
Overall, considering these features, this year has brought notable advancements in the iPhone domain. However, the experience isn’t entirely without downsides.
Drawbacks and regrets
Some modifications made to the iPhone 16 Pro have felt like steps backward to me. Additionally, certain new features that I anticipated would have a larger impact simply haven’t met those expectations.
Here are the drawbacks and disappointments I’ve noted with the 16 Pro:
- Increased size without advantage: The 16 Pro has a taller and wider form factor, featuring a 6.3-inch display as opposed to the 6.1-inch one of the 15 Pro. While this change may be beneficial for some users, I haven’t found the increased size to be beneficial. I can handle the 16 Pro one-handed, but it feels bulkier without a justified advantage. I long for the size of my 15 Pro.
- Heavier weight: Alongside the larger size, the 16 Pro is also heavier. It’s disappointing because last year’s 15 Pro was significantly lighter, and it seems Apple has compromised some of that benefit in just one year.
- Underwhelming macro mode: The Ultrawide lens received a major 48MP upgrade this year, which I thought would enhance the macro mode. While there are slight improvements, I still find myself disabling macro mode frequently, as the main camera often yields superior photos even if it can’t focus as closely.
- A18 Pro vs. A17 Pro performance: Lastly, I anticipated feeling a substantial performance boost with the A18 Pro chip over last year’s A17 Pro, particularly for Apple Intelligence tasks. However, I haven’t noticed a significant difference in my usage. Perhaps future AI capabilities will prove this change impactful.
Conclusion after three months with the iPhone 16 Pro
In summary, I remain quite satisfied with my iPhone 16 Pro. It has introduced notable advancements that elevate the iPhone experience.
That said, it would have been even better to enjoy these enhancements without compromising the lightweight and size that I valued in last year’s 15 Pro.
How does your experience with the iPhone 16 Pro compare to mine? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Top iPhone accessories
FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.
