Should You Skip the iPhone 16?

By Greg Collier

Every year, Apple enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the latest iPhone release, weighing the new features against the cost of upgrading. This year, with the introduction of the iPhone 16 lineup, the decision might be more complicated than usual. Apple has revealed the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, with enhancements across the board. But the real question is: should you upgrade or skip this generation altogether?

The iPhone 16 Lineup: What’s New?

This year’s crop of iPhones marks Apple’s first post-Apple Intelligence announcement, bringing generative AI-powered features into the fold. Apple Intelligence, integrated with tools like Siri and Writing Tools, promises to help users with tasks like rewriting, summarizing, and even generating AI-based images. These features, however, are still in their early stages and will roll out gradually with iOS 18 over the coming months.

The iPhone 16 models come with a new Camera Control button, which allows users to snap pictures, record videos, and perform searches based on what the camera sees. Additionally, the Action Button, previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, has made its way across the entire lineup, giving users a quick way to access shortcuts.

The Pro models boast the more familiar upgrades: larger displays, better cameras, and faster processors. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are equipped with the A18 Pro chip and advanced photography tools, like a 48MP ultra-wide camera and 5x optical zoom. They also allow for 4K video at 120 frames per second and other high-end video capabilities.

But the real question is, do you need all this?

Is Apple Intelligence a Game Changer Yet?

While Apple Intelligence holds promise, many users may find it underwhelming at launch. Generative AI and smart tools are impressive, but for most consumers, these features won’t drastically change their day-to-day experience, at least not in their current form. In fact, many users may not even notice these tools in action until further updates roll out with iOS 18.1.

For those who are upgrading solely for the AI features, it’s worth noting that Apple Intelligence is still in its infancy. As I’ve previously mentioned, unless you’re heavily invested in using AI-based tools, you may find yourself wondering whether this is worth the upgrade.

Pro vs. Standard: What Do You Actually Need?

This year, Apple has blurred the lines between the standard iPhone 16 and its Pro counterparts. Both models now have the Camera Control and Action Buttons, which bring the two closer in terms of functionality. The Pro models come with the usual performance enhancements: USB 3 support, dual-frequency GPS, 4K Dolby Vision video, and ProRes recording. But let’s be real, how many people actually use these features?

If you’re a content creator or videographer, the 48MP ultra-wide camera or studio-quality mics on the Pro might be worth the extra $200. But for the vast majority of users, the standard iPhone 16 offers nearly the same experience without the extra cost.

Many of the Pro features go underutilized. The telephoto lens and USB 3 support, for example, are features that are barely touched in daily routines. In reality, day-to-day tasks such as messaging, browsing, checking emails, and even gaming, could be handled just as well by the standard iPhone 16.

The Case for Skipping This Year’s iPhone

If you’re currently using an iPhone 12 or later, upgrading to the iPhone 16 might not be the best use of your money. Apple’s hardware improvements, while impressive, aren’t revolutionary. The standard iPhone 16 shares most of the Pro’s best features, so unless you’re deep into professional videography or photography, you may not need the higher-end model.

For those upgrading from older models (think iPhone 11 or earlier), the iPhone 16’s improved performance, battery life, and camera functionality will be a noticeable leap forward. But for others, the differences between this generation and the last may not justify the cost.

Final Thoughts: To Upgrade or Not?

The iPhone 16 is undeniably a solid device, but its improvements over the iPhone 15 series may not be enough to compel most users to upgrade. The standout features like Apple Intelligence and the new Camera Control button are interesting but not game-changing enough to warrant an immediate upgrade.

For iPhone 12 users or newer, it’s worth considering skipping this generation unless you’re itching for an upgrade or need specific features for work or creative projects. For others with older models, the iPhone 16 offers enough improvements to make the jump worthwhile.

In short, this is the year to think carefully about whether you truly need the latest and greatest, or if skipping this generation could save you money without sacrificing much functionality.