iPhone 16 Camera Control, Action Button and New Colors

Apple’s latest smartphones have been officially announced, and CNET had the opportunity to test them. During the Glowtime event held on Monday, the company unveiled its newest iPhone models, which are aptly named the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 plus for the standard versions.

The top differences between the iPhone 16 and its predecessor, the iPhone 15, include a dedicated camera “button”; the addition of an Action button-which previously has only offered on the Pro model; a new A18 processor; and zoom camera quality.

Apple positions the new iPhone series as the first smartphones for Apple Intelligence amid a race for advanced artificial intelligence integration.

Prices for this year’s models are no different from last year’s devices. The 128GB iPhone 16 begins at $799 (£799, AU$1,399), while the 128GB iPhone 16 Plus starts at $899 (£899, AU$1,599). Both phones go on preorder on Friday and hit stores on Sept. 20.

We’re gathering the best launch deals for the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4.

iPhone 16 cameras

The upcoming iPhones feature a newly designed camera setup with vertically aligned sensors at the back, similar to the iPhone X, XS, XR, 11, and 12 series. It will differ from those iPhone 13, 14, and 15 models, which have their cameras positioned across the back in a diagonal manner. The vertical alignment of the cameras enhances their ability to capture spatial photos and videos viewable on Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

A specialized camera control button has been introduced along the side of the device, allowing individuals to enhance their photography and video graphy skills. Apple has consistently asserted that the iPhone rivals DSLRs, and this dedicated button could further facilitate the process of capturing moments and memories.

Pressing the button captures an image, while sliding allows for zoom adjustments. A double press can toggle between modes or settings. According to Apple, the “camera control” feature will be available for use in third-party applications.

CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco found the Camera Control feature on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus enjoyable to use. Users can swipe across the sensor to navigate settings and controls, mimicking the functionality of a touch pad.

This design combines button and touch pad features, enhancing Apple’s Quick Take from the iPhone 11 for effortless video recording.

CNET needs more time to assess the iPhone 16 and evaluate the effectiveness and utility of the Camera Control feature. Initial impressions indicate that Camera Control effectively manages settings and shooting modes without blocking the screen with your finger.

A particularly intriguing application of Camera Control is a novel feature introduced by Apple, referred to as “visual intelligence. “Holding the Camera Control button lets users quickly scan objects or locations for insights, similar to Google Lens.

 This development highlights technology companies’ shift in redefining cameras, transforming them from photography tools to enhancing our environmental understanding.

Google and OpenAI promote their mobile virtual assistants’ abilities to respond to inquiries and handle requests using images and text. Apple will introduce this functionality later this year, but it will not be available at the initial launch.

Read Also: TikTok: Potential Buyers and Challenges

The iPhone 16’s 48-megapixel camera captures 12-megapixel telephoto images with 2x magnification, maintaining impressive quality. Additionally, there is an updated ultra wide sensor that Apple claims “can capture up to 2.6 times more light.”

iPhone 16 gains the Action button, screen sizes remain the same

The iPhone16 series introduces an “Action” button, enhancing both models, similar to the one in the iPhone 15 Pro.

This button lets users set shortcuts to launch apps or perform tasks, like activating “Do Not Disturb” or ordering coffee. It may seem like a minor adjustment, but functionally it is an improvement likely to further enhance personalization and customization of the general iPhone.

The new iPhones have the same screen sizes as the iPhone 15: 6.1 inches for the standard and 6.7 inches for Plus.Those who want even bigger screens will get them in the new iPhone16 Pro at 6.3 inches, while the 16 Pro Max will boast a 6.9-inch display. Also, the Pro variants are going to introduce better camera systems and faster processors.

iPhone 16 processor and battery life

Each iPhone 16 variant runs iOS 18 with the new A18 processor, supporting the latest Apple Intelligence AI functions. Apple claims the iPhone 16 features a larger battery, but did not specify how many additional hours of battery life it offers.

Apple states the iPhone16 provides 2 extra hours of video playback, both for locally stored and streamed content, over iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 Plus offers one extra hour of local video playback and four additional hours for streaming video playback.

Like the iPhone 15, the iPhone 16 supports USB-C charging, plus wireless charging via MagSafe and Qi2. MagSafe charging now supports 25W on the iPhone 16, up from 15W, while Qi charging remains at 15W and 7.5W.

The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus come in vibrant colors: white, black, ultramarine, teal, and pink, offering vivid visuals.

A key concern is whether upgrading to Apple Intelligence is worth it, with new AI features exclusive to these devices. Further insights will emerge as we engage more extensively with the device and as Apple Intelligence becomes available.