iPhone 16: Release date, prices and new rumoured features

Apple is expected to reveal four new phone models at a launch event in California

Apple is on Monday poised to unveil its iPhone 16 at an annual launch event in California, as the US tech giant seeks to entice consumers with a raft of new artificial intelligence (AI) features.

At the company’s so-called Glowtime event, Apple is planning to unveil four new iPhone models, as well as new AirPods and a revamped Apple Watch.

Its latest gadgets will be geared to take advantage of the tech giant’s AI software, known as Apple Intelligence.

This is powered by new A18 microchip processors, which analysts hope will trigger a surge in sales.

“This iPhone 16 release is all about Apple Intelligence and the unleashing of the consumer AI revolution,” says Dan Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities.

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The tech giant will show off its new gadgets at an event at its headquarters in Cupertino, California, starting at 6pm UK time.

Here is everything you need to know ahead of the event.

iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro: rumoured features

While Apple is always tight-lipped ahead of its launch events, the tech giant is expected to debut four new iPhone 16 models.

This includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The iPhone 16 is expected to have a screen size of 6.1 inches, while the Plus will have a 6.7-inch display. The Pro versions will be slightly larger at 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches respectively.

The gadgets will look broadly similar to other iPhones of recent years. The iPhone 16 models will come with a dual rear camera and the Pro variant with a triple rear set-up.

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However, all the phones will come with a new “capture” or “camera” button that will act similar to a shutter button on a regular camera – with added touch and swipe functions.

The phones will also include a programmable action button, which can be linked to quick-launch different features.

What is Apple Intelligence and when will it be released?

Alongside its new iPhones, Apple will also be upgrading its smartphone software later this month with iOS 18.

The new software will come with Apple Intelligence, a suite of tools and apps reliant on AI. This will include a revamped Siri digital assistant and a host of writing tools.

This will include AI-powered features that can reply to emails, draft blog posts and presentations, create synthetic artwork and design customised emojis.

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Apple Intelligence will also grant users access to ChatGPT, the digital assistant from Silicon Valley start-up OpenAI.

Apple has previously said: “Siri can tap into ChatGPT’s expertise when helpful. Users are asked before any questions are sent to ChatGPT, along with any documents or photos, and Siri then presents the answer directly.”

How much will the iPhone 16 cost?

The iPhone 16’s pricing is widely anticipated to mirror the cost of its previous iPhone 15 model upon launch.

Analysts from TrendForce believe the iPhone16 will start at $799 (£611), while the iPhone 16 Plus will come in at $899. The pricier iPhone 16 Pro will start at $1,099 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max will cost $1,199.

Should its UK price structure remain the same as the iPhone 15, the iPhone 16 will start at £799 in Britain. The iPhone is typically more expensive in the UK owing to taxes and exchange rates.

iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro release date

Following Monday’s launch event, the new iPhone 16 is expected to be available for pre-order from Friday Sept 13, and will then go on full sale a week later on Sept 20.

However, some of the crucial new software features may not be available immediately.

Apple Intelligence is expected to be released in October, while customers in the EU will not get the new software until 2025 because of regulatory delays.

What about the Apple Watch and AirPods?

Apple is also looking to release a new low-end version of its AirPod headphones, the AirPods 4.

It will also debut a revamped version of its larger, over-ear headphones, which will be known as the AirPods Max.

The new Apple Watch X is also expected to be launched, boasting new health features and a slimline design.

How can I watch Apple’s Glowtime event?

Apple’s Glowtime live event is expected to start at 6pm UK time and will be available to watch on Apple’s website and its YouTube channel.