With WWDC just around the corner, excitement is mounting as rumors swirl about Apple’s next major software release. According to recent reports from Mark Gurman, many of the AI features in iOS 18 will require the latest iPhone 15 Pro or newer models. This is a departure from the norm, as significant software enhancements have typically been available across a broader range of devices. However, it seems that iOS 18 is set to change this dynamic.
This development hints that Apple’s marketing for the upcoming iPhone 16 may focus more on software advancements than hardware upgrades. The AI functionalities embedded in iOS 18 could become the primary allure for the new iPhone 16 lineup.
As we look forward to Apple’s expected September launch of the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, we have a clearer picture of what these models will bring to the table. The Pro versions are slated to feature larger screens, expanding from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches on the Pro, and from 6.7 inches to 6.9 inches on the Pro Max. Additionally, a new Capture button will be introduced on the right edge of all 16 models to enable advanced camera controls.
The Pro models will be equipped with the latest A18 chip, while the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will run on the A17 chip. Furthermore, the Pro models will see improved low-light performance for their main cameras, and the 16 Pro will gain the 5x zoom tetraprism camera that is currently exclusive to the 15 Pro Max.
While these enhancements make the Pro models particularly attractive, the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus may seem to offer less in terms of hardware improvements. However, if Gurman's predictions about the AI feature restrictions in iOS 18 hold true, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will be the only non-Pro models capable of supporting these new AI-driven features. This is largely due to the inclusion of the A17 chip, which powers the current iPhone 15 Pro. This could provide a substantial incentive for users to upgrade to the iPhone 16, as the exterior might appear similar to last year's model, but the advanced AI capabilities requiring the A17 chip will offer a significant upgrade in user experience.
This fall, as Apple ramps up its marketing campaign for the iPhone 16, it’s likely that the spotlight will be on the innovative AI features made possible by iOS 18. These AI-driven functionalities, exclusive to the newest models, will likely be the main selling point, demonstrating the advanced capabilities that users can only access with a new iPhone or last year’s Pro model.
For potential buyers of the iPhone 16, the ability to unlock the full suite of AI features in iOS 18 will be a compelling reason to upgrade, making it an essential purchase for those looking to experience the latest advancements in smartphone technology.
