Smallest and cheapest new model plays catchup to Pro iPhones with strong battery life but familiar design

iPhone 16 Series Reportedly Easier to Repair Than Previous Generations Due to Three Key Changes

phone 16series might be easier to repair compared to the previous generation of Apple smartphones, according to a report. The Cupertino-based tech giant launched the series comprising the base model, the iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max at the “It’s Glowtime” event earlier this month. While the company mentioned the new hardware upgrades, it did not highlight the behind-the-scenes changes it implemented to make the devices easier to repair. However, there are three ways Apple has made the iPhone 16 series the easiest to repair in the company’s history.

Apple’s latest iPhone 16 breaks away from the trend of removing buttons from smartphones by introducing not just one but two new physical controls. This update also comes with a significant boost in chip performance and an impressive two-day battery life.

The iPhone 16 is the smallest and most affordable model in the iPhone 16 series, starting at £799 (€959/$799/A$1,399). Positioned below the larger and more expensive iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro models, this phone offers solid features at a lower price point.

Though the iPhone 16 might not have the cutting-edge bells and whistles of the Pro versions, it still provides much of what makes Apple devices popular. The iPhone 16 maintains the classic Apple design, featuring an aluminium and glass build with a lightweight feel at just 170g. It retains the familiar 6.1-inch display, which is the same size as its predecessor, the iPhone 15. However, while the screen is bright and sharp, it is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, which may not feel as smooth as the Pro models that feature faster displays. Additionally, the iPhone 16 does not include the always-on display found in the higher-end iPhones.

One notable design change is the new camera layout. The dual rear cameras have been rearranged, resembling the iPhone 12’s alignment. Despite these updates, the major external change comes with the introduction of two new buttons. The standout is the action button, a feature borrowed from the iPhone 15 Pro, replacing the traditional mute switch. The action button can be customized to perform various tasks such as activating the torch, switching focus modes, recording voice memos, and more via Apple’s Shortcuts app.

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The Apple iPhone 16 brings a mix of familiar design and new upgrades, making it a great choice for those who want a powerful iPhone at a more affordable price point, with enhanced usability thanks to the new buttons and improved battery life.

Specifications

• Screen: 6.1in Super Retina XDR (OLED) (460ppi)
• Processor: Apple A18
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128, 256 or 512GB
• Operating system: iOS 18
• Camera: 48MP main + 12MP UW; 12MP front-facing
• Connectivity: 5G, wifi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, Thread, USB-C, Satellite, UWB and GNSS
• Water resistance: IP68 (6 metres for 30 mins)
• Dimensions: 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm
• Weight: 170g

iPhone 16 Series Might Be Easier to Repair

There are several reasons why repairing an iPhone from third-party repair shops or at home was unfeasible earlier. The company had a strict policy when it came to part replacement, making it necessary to order them directly from Apple. Further, the battery was stuck to the enclosure using an adhesive which was very difficult to remove.

However, an Engadget report claims the adhesive issue now does not exist as the tech giant has changed its adhesive design to use a material that comes off when a low voltage electrical current is run through it. Repair professionals can bring the battery out of the enclosure by just using a 9V battery (common batteries available at retailers and used for various appliances).

Another improvement is reportedly coming to the iPhone 16 series’ Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanner, which is used for the FaceID. It was previously not possible to repair outside of Apple service centres due to the security concerns associated with manipulating the system. But now, the new TrueDepth camera can reportedly be swapped from one unit to another without any issues.

The third change is also significant. Apple has introduced the Repair Assistant with iOS, which solves part pairing issues. As mentioned above, part pairing was difficult because of Apple’s strict policy. However, the company is now allowing users to configure and calibrate new and used parts directly on the device.

The iPhone 16 Plus has more RAM and improved heat management over the 15 series. With an updated logic board and a recycled aluminum sub-structure for heat dissipation, it delivers smoother performance, particularly in graphics-heavy games like Assassin’s Creed: Mirage and Resident Evil 4. Benchmark tests show a significant boost from the A18 chip, outpacing the 15 series in AnTuTu, GFX Bench, and Geekbench 6 scores. The phone’s display, balanced stereo speakers, precise haptic feedback, and strong 5G connectivity on Jio and Airtel networks further enhance the experience.

Benchmark Comparison:

• AnTuTu: iPhone 16 Plus – 157,8189; iPhone 15 Plus – 138,7632
• GFX Bench Car Chase: iPhone 16 Plus – 3550/60fps; iPhone 15 Plus – 3129/60fps
• GFX Bench Manhattan 3.1: iPhone 16 Plus – 3724/60fps; iPhone 15 Plus – 3227/60fps
• GFX Bench T-Rex: iPhone 16 Plus – 3364/60fps; iPhone 15 Plus – 3087/60fps
• 3D Mark Wild Life Extreme: iPhone 16 Plus – 3922; iPhone 15 Plus – 2989
• 3D Mark Wild Life: iPhone 16 Plus – Maxed Out; iPhone 15 Plus – 8704
• Geekbench 6: iPhone 16 Plus – 3203 (single) & 7846 (multi); iPhone 15 Plus – 2989 (single) & 7219 (multi)