Key Points:
- iPhone 16 Series Camera Upgrades: Improved ultrawide lens, 5x telephoto on all Pro models, new photo format, and a capacitive Capture Button.
- EU iPhone Default App Flexibility: Users in the EU can now set non-Apple defaults for more apps and delete additional built-in apps.
- iOS and iPadOS Updates: New “Default Apps” section and broader support for third-party browsers in the EU.
Apple is gearing up to launch the iPhone 16 series, possibly as soon as September 10. As excitement builds, key camera details for all four models have surfaced. Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will feature two cameras, now aligned vertically on the back. The main camera remains the same 48 MP as found in the iPhone 15 series, while the ultrawide lens receives an upgrade to an f/2.2 aperture, enhancing low-light photography. Additionally, these non-Pro models are expected to support macro photography for the first time.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are both set to include a 5x telephoto camera, a feature that was previously exclusive to the larger model. This 12 MP camera with an f/2.8 aperture is designed to bring the best zoom capabilities across the Pro lineup. While the primary camera remains unchanged from last year, the ultrawide camera is getting a significant upgrade with a 48 MP sensor that uses pixel binning to deliver improved image quality, especially in low light. Users will also be able to shoot 48 MP ProRaw photos, and there’s speculation about a new JPEG-XL photo format. The Pro models will support 3K video at 120fps with Dolby Vision, offering exceptional video quality.
One of the most intriguing new features is the addition of a Capture Button across all iPhone 16 models. This capacitive button, similar to those found on Sony cameras, allows for half-press actions to lock focus and exposure before taking a photo. It’s also touch-sensitive, enabling gestures like zooming. This button will be accessible to both Apple’s camera app and third-party apps via an API, opening up possibilities for developers to integrate unique functionalities.
In a move to align with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple is introducing changes to iPhones and iPads sold in the EU. These devices will now allow users to set non-Apple apps as defaults for a broader range of functions. Beyond browsers, mail, and payment apps, EU users can now choose default apps for phone calls, messaging, passwords, keyboards, and spam filters. These new options will be available in the “Default Apps” section of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, launching later this year. By spring 2025, Apple plans to extend this functionality to navigation and translation apps.
Additionally, Apple will permit the deletion of more built-in apps, such as the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari, leaving only the Settings and Phone apps undeletable. The EU will also see an updated browser choice screen, providing more information about third-party browsers. If a user selects a different default browser, it will automatically replace Safari on the Dock or Home Screen, streamlining the experience.
These updates mark significant changes in how Apple’s devices operate, particularly for users in the European Union. The iPhone 16 series promises impressive camera enhancements, while iOS 18 brings greater flexibility and customization options, especially in the EU.
