This year, Apple is set to increase the size of its premium iPhones, marking the first significant size update in several years. While it's been known for some time that the iPhone 16 Pro will measure 6.3 inches (up from 6.1) and the Pro Max will be 6.9 inches (up from 6.7), recent leaks have provided a comprehensive picture of every dimension, giving us a clearer view of Apple's next-generation devices ahead of their mid-September launch.
Despite being larger, one notable reduction in these models is the screen border. Thanks to Chinese Weibo-based leakers UniverseIce and Instant Digital, we've learned that the bezel sizes for both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are significantly smaller compared to their predecessors. This is achieved through border reduction structure (BRS) technology, allowing a more compact and efficient layout of the circuitry under the display. The slimmer bezels are expected to give Apple's premium smartphones the 'narrowest screen frame in the world'.
To illustrate, the screen border on the iPhone 16 Pro is 1.2 mm, a 30% reduction from the iPhone 15 Pro's 1.71 mm. Meanwhile, the larger iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a screen border of 1.15 mm, down from 1.55 mm, representing a 26% reduction. When compared to its rival, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the iPhone 16 Pro Max's design is expected to feel more compact and comfortable in hand.
Another anticipated feature for the iPhone 16 series is the integration of the Action button, previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro. The Action button allows users to trigger various actions with a press or swipe, customizing its purpose based on individual preferences. This feature, coupled with the Dynamic Island introduced in 2023, could make multitasking and navigation much more seamless on the iPhone 16, especially for users of the standard iPhone 16.
The Action button is especially noteworthy for its potential to enhance the smartphone's multitasking capabilities. Unlike Android devices, which offer extensive multitasking options, iPhones have traditionally lagged in this aspect. The introduction of the Action button provides a level of customization and utility that Apple users haven't seen before, making it easier to perform tasks like calling contacts, launching apps, or even ordering coffee with a simple press. The consistency this brings across all iPhone models is also a significant advantage, aligning with Apple's strategy of providing a unified user experience.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature a new Capture button, aimed at enhancing the camera experience. The Capture button, which can also be swiped to activate different functions, is designed to make it easier for users to take photos and videos quickly. This feature ties in with the larger screens of the Pro models, ensuring that users can take full advantage of the enhanced display real estate for a superior media capturing and viewing experience.
Interestingly, the design of the iPhone 16 Pro Max is poised to bring it closer to a 'borderless sci-fi form factor'. With the implementation of BRS technology, the phone will feature the thinnest bezels seen in any smartphone to date. Leaker Ice Universe has shared that both the bezel and middle frame will collectively amount to just 2.146 mm, making the iPhone 16 Pro Max more compact than competitors like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which boasts a bezel and middle frame total of 3.38 mm. The new design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves ergonomics, making the device comfortable to hold despite its larger size.
Looking back at Apple's incremental improvements over the years, the iPhone 16 Pro Max's move towards near-borderless design represents a significant leap in smartphone aesthetics and usability. The symmetrical 1.153 mm bezels and larger 6.883-inch screen (marketed as 6.9 inches) epitomize Apple's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while addressing practical user needs. This design evolution is likely to set a new standard in the smartphone industry, emphasizing the importance of efficient space utilization and user comfort.
The upcoming iPhone models are also expected to include other enhancements such as improved camera technology, new color options, and upgraded modem chips. These features, combined with the design and functional improvements, promise to make the iPhone 16 series a compelling upgrade for both new buyers and existing Apple customers. For those upgrading from older models like the iPhone 13 Pro Max, the differences will be striking, offering a significantly enhanced user experience through better screen real estate and advanced functionalities.
While the iPhone 16's enhancements are impressive, it is essential to acknowledge potential limitations and the need for further research. The reliance on new technologies like BRS and advanced button functionalities may present manufacturing challenges or require recalibration through software updates post-launch. Future iterations will need to address these issues, ideally incorporating user feedback to refine the experience.
As for future research directions, Apple is likely to continue its focus on achieving a truly borderless design while integrating innovative features that enhance usability. Continued advancements in display technology, battery efficiency, and AI-driven functionalities will be crucial. Additionally, exploring new materials and form factors, such as foldable screens or more advanced biometric security features, could open new avenues for innovation. Larger, more diverse user studies will also be essential to validate and expand upon these findings, ensuring that the designs meet a broad range of user needs and preferences.
In conclusion, Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are set to redefine the premium smartphone experience through significant design and functional enhancements. By integrating features like narrower bezels, the Action button, and improved capture functionalities, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in smartphone technology. These advancements herald a new era of innovation, setting the stage for future developments that promise to further revolutionize the industry.
