iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Expected in September 2024 -

iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Expected in September 2024

Apple’s upcoming flagship iPhone lineup for 2024 is expected to include two high-end models, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. These premium devices will likely be unveiled in September alongside the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. Traditionally positioned at a higher price point, the “Pro” iPhones typically boast cutting-edge designs and features, making them the first to adopt new technologies within the iPhone range.

We’re months away from the debut of the 2024 iPhones, but as is typical, leakers, analysts, and others with insider information are already sharing details on the new devices.

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 lineup is expected to introduce the first size increase for the Pro models in several years. The iPhone 16 Pro will boast a larger 6.3-inch display (up from 6.1 inches), while the iPhone 16 Pro Max will offer a more expansive 6.9-inch display (up from 6.7 inches). The standard iPhone 16 models are anticipated to retain their current dimensions. Aside from these size adjustments, significant design changes are not expected for the iPhone 16 series.

Performance advancements are likely with the inclusion of next-generation A-series chips built on the leading-edge N3E 3-nanometer process for the iPhone 16 Pro models. Specific details regarding performance gains are yet to be revealed. A wider adoption of features is also expected, with the previously Pro-exclusive Action Button becoming available across all four iPhone 16 models. Additionally, rumors suggest the introduction of a dedicated “Capture” button for enhanced photo and video capture.

Size Updates and Design Changes

Industry rumors suggest a significant display upgrade for the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models. Reports indicate a display size increase for both devices, with the iPhone 16 Pro expected to boast a 6.3-inch display (up from 6.1 inches) and the Pro Max reaching 6.9 inches (up from 6.7 inches).

These larger displays will necessitate a corresponding increase in overall phone dimensions. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are anticipated to be taller and wider than their predecessors, the iPhone 15 Pro models. While the thickness is expected to remain unchanged, the larger footprint will likely result in a slight weight increase.

iPhone 16 Pro

	iPhone 16 Pro	iPhone 15 Pro
Thickness	8.25 mm	8.25 mm
Height	149.6 mm	146.6 mm
Width	71.45 mm	70.60 mm
Display	6.3″ (159.31 mm)	6.1″ (155.38 mm)
Weight	194 grams	187 grams

iPhone 16 Pro Max

iPhone 16 Pro Max	iPhone 15 Pro Max
Thickness	8.25 mm	8.25 mm
Height	163.0 mm	159.9 mm
Width	77.58 mm	76.70 mm
Display	6.9″ (174.06 mm)	6.7″ (169.98 mm)
Weight	225 grams	221 grams

Dummy Models

In preparation for the launch of new iPhone models, case manufacturers leverage leaked specifications and dimensions obtained from Apple’s supply chain. This critical information allows them to create prototype models, often referred to as dummy models. Given the significant financial incentive to be the first to market with cases for new devices, these dummy models are typically highly accurate representations of the upcoming iPhones’ design.

In April, leaks featuring iPhone 16 dummy models provided valuable insights into the upcoming lineup’s size variations. The Pro models exhibit a slight increase in both height and width compared to their standard counterparts. Notably, the standard iPhone 16 models boast a redesigned camera system with a vertical dual-lens layout, replacing the previous diagonal configuration. Conversely, the iPhone 16 Pro models maintain the familiar square camera bump, housing their triple-lens system with minimal external design changes.

An inspection of leaked dummy models reveals a consistent placement of the rumored Action Button on the left side of all four models. The right side showcases a new Capture Button design, which integrates seamlessly with the device’s edge unlike the protruding volume and power buttons.

Comparison images featuring a dummy model positioned beside an iPhone 15 Pro Max provide a visual reference for the anticipated size increase of the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

MagSafe

Leaks from case manufacturers suggest a potential redesign of the MagSafe system in iPhone 16 models. The alignment magnets embedded within the device might be slimmer, potentially reducing the size of the magnetic ring needed for compatible MagSafe cases.

Colors and Finish

The iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to come in black, white or silver, gray or “Natural Titanium,” and rose, a shade of gold.

Display Technology

Apple’s iPhone 16 lineup is rumored to incorporate micro-lens OLED display technology. This innovation promises to enhance display brightness while simultaneously reducing power consumption, potentially leading to extended battery life for users.

The iPhone 16 Pro is rumored to boast a 20% brighter display for everyday use, reaching 1200 nits. Peak HDR brightness is likely to stay at 1600 nits.

To achieve this, Apple is implementing Border Reduction Structure (BRS) technology. BRS efficiently packs display circuitry, enabling slimmer bezels without compromising performance.

Buttons

The iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to have the same power, volume, and Action buttons as the iPhone 15 Pro models, with no design changes or updates. Apple is planning to add a new button, though, the “Capture Button.” The Capture Button will be located on the same side of the iPhone as the Power button, in the space that is occupied by the 5G mmWave antenna in the United States.

A-Series Chips

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 lineup is expected to receive a performance boost with the next-generation A-series chip. The A18, built on the same 3-nanometer process as the A17 Pro, will likely power the standard iPhone 16 models. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max could leverage an A18 Pro variation featuring a significantly enhanced Neural Engine for improved AI capabilities, potentially achieved through a larger die size according to analyst Jeff Pu. While the exact names remain unconfirmed, this separation suggests a focus on advanced AI for the Pro models.

iPhone 16 Camera Technology

The iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to include an improved 48-megapixel Ultra Wide camera. The upgrade should allow the sensor to capture more light, resulting in enhanced photos when shooting in 0.5x mode, especially in low-light environments. It would likely function like the 48-megapixel Wide camera, which uses pixel binning to combine the data from four pixels into one “super pixel” for better image quality.

5G Modem Chip

iPhone 16 Pro models rumored to adopt Qualcomm’s next-gen X75 modem for faster, more efficient 5G.
X75 boasts improved carrier aggregation and a smaller footprint due to a combined transceiver design.
It supports the new “5G Advanced” standard with AI features, potentially enabling “5G Advanced” marketing for iPhone 16 Pro.
Notably, the X75 modem is expected to be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro lineup.

Storage

Up to 1TB of storage is expected for iPhone 16 Pro, with 256GB and 512GB options also available. To manage costs for the 1TB model, Apple might use QLC NAND flash, potentially impacting read/write speeds according to DigiTimes.

WiFi 7

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the iPhone 16 Pro models could adopt the next-generation WiFi 7 technology, which is expected to provide speeds of “at least 30” gigabits per second, and could hit up to 40Gb/s.

USB-C Port

Apple transitioned to USB-C technology with the iPhone 15 lineup, and all iPhone 16 models will also have USB-C ports.

Battery

Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro line may adopt stacked battery technology, offering increased capacity and lifespan – a technique proven in electric vehicles and medical devices, but new for smartphones. This could be accompanied by faster charging, reaching 40W wired and 20W MagSafe.

	iPhone 15 Lineup (2023)	iPhone 16 Lineup (2024)	% Change
[Standard]	3,349 mAh	3,561 mAh	+6%
Plus	4,383 mAh	4,006 mAh	-9%
Pro	3,274 mAh	3,355 mAh	+2.5
Pro Max	4,422 mAh	4,676 mAh	+5%

AI Capabilities

iOS 18 may bring Siri upgrades fueled by advanced AI, with potential limitations on access for older iPhone models.

Apple’s rumored iOS 18 update is expected to introduce various large language model (LLM) features across iPhones. While some AI functionalities may be exclusive to the iPhone 16, advancements like Siri-Messages integration, personalized music curation, and AI-powered content creation tools are anticipated for broader adoption.

Microphone

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts iPhone 16 models will boast upgraded microphones with enhanced water resistance and signal-to-noise ratio, specifically designed to optimize the upcoming AI-powered Siri experience. These advancements are expected to significantly improve Siri’s ability to understand user commands.

iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Expected in September 2024