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Americans most frequently searched to relocate to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK, data shows
Trump’s recent victory has driven many Americans to search about moving abroad(REUTERS)
Donald Trump may have a different immigration talking point since becoming the president-elect: Americans wanting to move abroad.
As emotions ran high after Trump won the presidential election on Wednesday morning, the number of Google searches to leave the country increased by 1514 per cent, according to VisaGuide.World.
From Election Day through November 6, search traffic for “immigration” related pages on its site grew by 338 per cent, as disgruntled Americans looked up where they had the best shot of moving to, the website said.
Pages with information about relocating to specific countries also gained traction. Norway was the most popular of those pages, followed by the UK, Ireland and New Zealand.
Germany-Visa.org also saw a 336 per cent uptick in traffic for pages related to immigration, with particular interest in the country’s Opportunity Card — a residence permit that allows anyone from a country outside of the European Union to live in Germany for up to one year to find a job.
Google searches in the US for migration topics are roughly 15 times higher this week compared to the week before the presidential election.
“Moving to New Zealand from the US” was the most-searched term, with searches for the phrase up 76 times from before Trump’s victory. Similarly, “moving to Germany from the US” was 42 times more searched this last week, and searches for “Moving to the Netherlands” was searched 32 times more, the site found.
Americans most frequently searched for information about relocating to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.
The Apple iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are now available in three new, strictly Limited Editions with designs inspired by Elon Musk, Donald Trump and Steve Jobs. The collection is intended to celebrate Donald Trump’s recent victory in the US presidential election.
Caviar is now offering the Apple iPhone 16 Pro in three new and very expensive limited editions. (Image source: Caviar)
Russian luxury smartphone manufacturer Caviar has announced a new “Visionaries” collection that recreates theApple iPhone 16 Proand the iPhone 16 Pro Max in three new designs inspired by Steve Jobs, Elon Musk and Donald Trump. However, these designs are not entirely new, as the “Musk be on Mars” Limited Editionwas offered for the iPhone 12 Pro, while the “Steve Jobs’ variant was offered for theiPhone 13 Pro .
The Steve Jobs Limited Edition features a PVD-coated titanium casing and a three-dimensional Apple logo coated with 24-carat gold. The back also features references to a total of twelve milestones that Steve Jobs achieved during his time at Apple, from the founding of the company to the launch of the first Macintosh in 1984 and the launch of the iPad in 2010.
The “Musk be on Mars” Limited Edition is distinguished above all by a fragment of a SpaceX rocket, which is incorporated into the case. The “Trump Great Again” Limited Edition has a geometric pattern based on the Trump Tower and bears an engraving of Donald Trump’s shortened election slogan and the stars of the US flag.
Prices and availability
The Caviar “Visionaries” collection of the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max is now availableon the Caviar website. Depending on the variant, the Limited Edition costs anywhere between $9200 and $10,990. Each of the three models is limited to 99 units and the serial number is engraved on the frame.
OnePlus has announced the OnePlus 13, and we now know the impressive battery life upgrades it brings along. We have an even larger battery than before that utilizes new battery materials to help keep the phone thin while still increasing the battery capacity.
There are no charging upgrades this year besides the support for reverse charging via a cable. But it is not like we were hoping to see any improvements in this are; the predecessor already offered very fast 100W of wired and 50W of wireless charging, which is also what the OnePlus 13 is capable of.
A new breed of batteries that will change world of smartphones
For a long time now, phone manufacturers have been using batteries made out of graphite. Graphite is good at storing energy, but it is not the best. Recently, the mobile tech industry has began using a new type of batteries for smartphones, they are called silicon-carbon or also silicon anode batteries.
This is exactly the tech OnePlus has utilized to manage to back a 6,000 mAh battery inside the OnePlus 13, while making it even thinner and lighter than the OnePlus 12!
Silicon-carbon or silicon anode batteries are better than graphite batteries because they can store more energy in a smaller space. This is because silicon atoms can store more lithium ions than carbon atoms.
Here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you have two boxes. One box can hold 10 marbles, while the other can hold 20. The box that can hold 20 marbles is like a silicon anode battery, while the box that can hold 10 marbles is like a graphite anode battery. Because silicon-carbon batteries can store more energy, they can make devices like smartphones and laptops last longer on a single charge.
Does the OnePlus 13 have better battery life? OnePlus hasn’t given any numbers on its website about the battery life of the OnePlus 13, but given increase in capacity we suspect it will last at least as long as the predecessor. For reference, we gave the OnePlus 12 an estimated battery life of 8 hours and 9 minutes, which placed it at the 7th spot among all phones we have tested.
It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to see the OnePlus 13 offer even longer battery life thanks to its innovative battery, especially if the Snapdragon 8 Elite proves more power efficient.
How much battery does the OnePlus 13 have?
The OnePlus 13 comes with the astonishing 6,000 mAh battery capacity, which is well above the average for modern flagship phones. This is also a 10% increase over last year’s generation, which came with a still pretty large 5,400 mAh battery.
How fast does the OnePlus 13 charge? OnePlus says that the OnePlus 13 will charge to 50% in about 13 minutes, while about 36 minutes is how long it takes to charge it to 100%. Here are all of the OnePlus 13 charging specs:
Wired — 100W
Wireless — 50W
Reverse wired — 5W
Reverse wireless — 10W
What charger does the OnePlus 13 use?
Just like with previous flagship OnePlus phones, theOnePlus 13comes with a 100W charger inside the box. In order to utilize the full charging speed of theOnePlus 13you need a Supervooc charger, which is developed by OnePlus’ sister company Oppo.
As for the wireless charging, you don’t get the Airvooc 50W wireless charger when you buy theOnePlus 13. That one you have to purchase separately, as long as you want the 50W of wireless charging. The phone will still charge with less powerful wireless chargers, it will just be slower.
Although the latest iPhone is always likely to slot neatly into our list of the best smartphones for photographers, the competition at the moment is fiercer than ever.
One of the best models on the market right now is the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, which comes packed with a host of photographic features that are very tempting to those who crave the very best camera on their smartphone. But can it beat the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
All signs point to yes during our individual reviews of the two models, but what happens when we put them head to head – let’s find out…
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Camera specs Both of these flagship models have excellent camera specifications for photographers, but it’s fair to say that – on paper at least – the Xiaomi has a superlative set up thanks to its quadruple 50MP sensors fronted by Leica-branded lenses.
Not only that, but the main 1x camera (23mm equivalent) has a variable aperture of f/1.6-4 (not something we usually see in smartphones) and also has a large 1-inch type sensor – something we also don’t usually see in smartphones. It is joined by an ultrawide (12mm, f/1.8), and two telephoto lenses (75mm, f/1.8 and 120mm f/2.5). All of the other sensors have a 1/2.5” sensor, while all of the lenses have Leica Summilux branding. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s cameras look a little more pedestrian by comparison. There are just three cameras, with only one offering high resolution (48MP). This is the 1x – 24mm equivalent – f/1.8 lens. It is joined by two 12MP sensors, one with a 13mm f/2.2 ultrawide lens and one with a 120mm f/2.8 telephoto lens.
Both smartphones have selfie cameras – of course – with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra having a 32MP f/2.0 selfie camera, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max having a 12MP selfie camera. While the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s is higher resolution, it doesn’t have AF (the iPhone’s does).
So it’s safe to say that here the Xiaomi is the overall winner, but what results will they deliver in real-world shooting…?
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Camera apps and shooting modes As with many other Android models, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a much more comprehensive native camera app than the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Along with a standard shooting mode, there’s an array of special modes. Some are fairly commonly found on most phones, such as “Night” mode for shooting in low light, but there are others which are a bit more unusual. The Portrait mode for example includes the ability to recreate the look of Leica lenses, rather than being a straightforward Portrait mode. It should be noted however that Leica recently introduced an app which allows the same for iPhone, so this is no longer strictly a unique selling point in the comparison.
Enthusiast photographers may wish to take advantage of the “Pro” mode which gives you a range of different shooting parameters which you can change, such as white balance, ISO, focus mode, shutter speed and if you’re shooting with the 1x lens, aperture. This is also where you can shoot in raw format if you wish.
(Left: iPhone 15 Pro Max Right: Xiaomi 14 Ultra)
By contrast, the iPhone’s native camera app has a little less going on. You still have a Portrait mode and various video options, but other things are missing. There is a Night mode, but it comes on automatically when low light is detected, it’s not something you can select yourself. There is no Pro mode, but there is the option to switch on raw format shooting from the main Photo mode.
An interesting thing to note here is that as well as the dedicated Photo mode, when the phone detects that you’re photographing a portrait subject (human, dog or cat), then it will automatically save the data needed to convert it into a portrait later on. This has been incredibly useful when quickly photographing such subjects.
(Left: iPhone 15 Pro Max Right: Xiaomi 14 Ultra)
So do we have a clear-cut winner here? That largely depends on what you’re priorities are. If you really want a Pro mode in your native app, then it’s the Xiaomi that wins, but if you’re happy enough to have a fairly simple app and download a more comprehensive one separately, then the iPhone is still a good shout.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: General image quality
In this scene, both look great, but I’d say that the Xiaomi has more pleasing colours, while the iPhone shot has a slightly green cast. The same colour issue can be seen in the ultrawide shot too, although on the plus side at least the colours are matched between lenses.
Detail is good from both models, though it’s worth pointing out that the standard output from the iPhone is 24MP when using the standard lens, compared to 12MP from the Xiaomi, so there’s a little more potentially for cropping with the iPhone. Exposures are well balanced with both models, with both demonstrating a good blend of highlights and shadows.
When there’s artificial lighting present in a scene, both do a pretty good job. Here, the Xiaomi has corrected what the scene actually looked like to produce a pleasing result. The iPhone has kept things more accurate – the light looked yellowish in real life, but it could be argued that therefore the result is slightly less pleasing to look at.
We’ve got a bit of a tie-break situation here, with both producing excellent images in everyday conditions. It might be easier to pick things apart when looking a bit more closely at specific shooting scenarios.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Macro
If you’re into taking close-ups, both phones here have suitable modes to allow for that, and both put in great performance. It’s only the Xiaomi however which has a floating telephoto which has been specifically designed to create good macro images.
There are two ways to create macros using either phone. You can simply move your phone closer to the subject and the phone will automatically switch to the ultrawide lens. Or, if you want to fill the frame a bit more, you can also switch to the 5x lens.
In my test, the iPhone puts in a reasonably good performance when shooting with the ultrawide after automatically switching to it, but the Xiaomi’s is noticeably better, being cleaner and brighter. However, I have been extremely impressed by what the Xiaomi is capable of from the telephoto – here it blows the iPhone out of the water, producing an image which I think would be easy to pretend came from a “real” camera. It’s crisp where it needs to be, has plenty of detail, but also has a beautifully blurred background.
Here I have to give top marks to the Xiaomi, if you regularly shoot close-ups, I’d probably say it’s worth buying the Xiaomi for that purpose alone.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Screen and Design Both of these smartphones are pretty large, with both having a 6.7” screen. The overall sizes of the phones are both reasonably close in size to each other, with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra measuring up at 161.4 x 75.3 x 9.2mm and 219.8g, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max coming in at 159.9 x 76.7 x 8.25mm and 221g. If you’re after a small phone, neither of these devices are going to be for you – but it’s hard to deny these large screens are great for viewing your photos on.
(Left: iPhone 15 Pro Max Right: Xiaomi 14 Ultra)
If you do want a smaller iPhone, you can opt for the iPhone 15 Pro (6.1” screen), which has most of the same specifications as the Max version, but the telephoto lens is only 3x, rather than 5x. Similarly, you can also get a smaller Xiaomi, in the shape of the Xiaomi 14 (6.3” screen), but here – among other things – you lose the fourth (telephoto) lens.
Size aside, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a 3200 x 1440 pixel screen with 3000 nits maximum brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes it higher resolution and brighter than the iPhone 15 Pro Max which has a 2796 x 1290 pixel screen with 2000 nits maximum brightness (it has the same 120Hz refresh rate). The difference isn’t hugely noticeable in real-world usage though.
Both are IP68 rated, meaning that they can withstand water and dust exposure. The Xiaomi has “Xiaomi Shield” for the screen, while the iPhone uses a “Ceramic Shield” – it’s hard to say exactly how these two compare, but either way, neither phone has succumbed to scratches while I have been using them.
(Left: iPhone 15 Pro Max Right: Xiaomi 14 Ultra)
In terms of design, the Xiaomi make some slightly odd aesthetic choices – but it does look a bit more like a “real” camera, with its large ring around the four lenses. The iPhone looks like, well, an iPhone. Some people feel these are aesthetically pleasing – but they’ve been a bit boring for a while now. Look at the pictures and decide for yourself which you prefer the look of.
Here I’d say it’s a bit of a tie when it comes to design. Both are large, both are high resolution, both have waterproofing. So, it might come down to which you personally feel is the more attractive of the two.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Battery life, charging and storage The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a 5000mAh battery and boasts both wireless charging and super quick charging (separate chargers will need to be bought, they don’t come in the box). It uses a USB-C connection, as is standard now. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro Max also fast charging and wireless capabilities – again you will need to buy a charger for that capability. Apple doesn’t disclose the size of its batteries but says that it is rated for 29 hours of video play back, which gives an indication that it’s probably reasonably close in size to the Xiaomi’s.
Either way, in real-world usage, both phones usually easily last a full day, even with reasonably heavy usage and spending a lot of time using the camera.
In terms of storage, the Xiaomi only has a 512GB option, which should be plenty for the average user. For the iPhone, you can go for a lower amount (256GB), or a higher amount (1TB), with price variations accordingly. For most photographers, the 256GB version is likely to be adequate – especially if you make use of cloud storage, but for content creators shooting video, the higher storage might be a better option.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Verdict
So after all that testing, what’s the conclusion?
It’s safe to say that both these flagship models are excellent for photographers, and despite high prices for both of them, represent good value for money considering the quality you get.
However, it has to be said that the overall trophy quite probably belongs to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. It does extremely well in all areas, beating the iPhone in most of them quite easily. There are some caveats depending on what you like to shoot and how you like your images to look. Some might prefer the warmer tones of the iPhone for example, but it’s hard to deny that the Xiaomi keeps very close to accurate.
If you’re into macro photography, the Xiaomi is nigh-on perfection, while in some low light conditions, the iPhone’s inbuilt night mode seems to perform just a touch better than the Xiaomi’s – so if either one of those things is your bag, then it might sway you in either direction.
Of course, there will be many who simply prefer the look of one or the other, and many more who prefer using iOS compared to Android (or vice versa). If that’s you, then it’s likely to be hard to push you one way or the other, but if you’re OS agnostic, then certainly don’t dismiss changing sides.
As for cost – as mentioned, they are both expensive. However, like for like prices for both models when you consider storage makes the Xiaomi better value. That said, when it comes to resale, it’s probably fair to say that an iPhone will almost certainly hold its value better than the Xiaomi, so that’s something to consider too.
In the end, the answer is – as is so often the case – a solid “it depends”, but, if pushed to make a final decision on which is the best smartphone for photographers, I’d give it to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
Choosing between flagship smartphones often comes down to subtle differences in features, performance, and design that significantly influence the user experience.
In this comparison, we’ll explore two of the latest high-end smartphones: Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro and Xiaomi’s 14 Pro. We’ll break down their design, display, media, software, performance, battery, and cameras, and see which phone provides a better overall experience.
The iPhone 16 Pro features a premium build with a glass front and back protected by Corning-made glass, encased in a Grade 5 titanium frame. It’s also IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, allowing it to survive submersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. The device is available in multiple SIM configurations, including a dual eSIM setup in the U.S. and a dual Nano-SIM model in China.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi 14 Pro offers a similarly premium design with a glass front and back, surrounded by either an aluminum or titanium frame. It also holds an IP68 rating, though it’s only water-resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, making it slightly less durable in extreme conditions compared to the iPhone.
Similarities: Both phones feature premium materials like glass and titanium, ensuring a sturdy yet elegant build. They are IP68-rated, meaning both devices offer solid protection against water and dust. Neither phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that has become rare in modern flagship phones.
Differences: The most significant difference lies in the water-resistance depth, with the iPhone 16 Pro able to survive greater submersion. Additionally, the iPhone uses Apple’s proprietary Ceramic Shield glass, which is known for its durability. Meanwhile, Xiaomi employs its custom Longjing Glass, which may offer similar protection but lacks the same brand recognition.
Advantages: The iPhone 16 Pro has a clear advantage in terms of water resistance and the use of Corning-made glass for its build. Xiaomi’s 14 Pro, with its more affordable titanium variant, offers flexibility in materials, which might appeal to different user preferences.
Which is Better? For those who prioritize durability, the iPhone 16 Pro takes the lead with its stronger water resistance and more established protective glass. However, Xiaomi’s flexible design options might be appealing to those who want choices in their premium experience.
The iPhone 16 Pro comes with a 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display. It supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, and a 120Hz refresh rate, with brightness levels reaching 2000 nits for outdoor visibility. The screen is protected by the new Ceramic Shield Glass (2024 gen) and offers an always-on display feature. Apple’s iOS 18 powers the phone, offering a refined, secure, and exclusive software ecosystem.
The Xiaomi 14 Pro features a larger 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED display, also supporting Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a 120Hz refresh rate. Xiaomi edges out Apple in brightness, with peak levels reaching an impressive 3000 nits. The display is protected by Xiaomi’s Longjing Glass. The phone runs on Android 14 with Xiaomi’s new HyperOS, blending customization with performance and offering users an open-source software experience.
Similarities: Both devices deliver top-tier AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, Dolby Vision, and high brightness levels. They also come with always-on displays and support a wide color gamut for enhanced media consumption.
Differences: Xiaomi’s 14 Pro has a slightly larger display, higher resolution (1440 x 3200 pixels compared to the iPhone’s 1206 x 2622 pixels), and a significantly brighter screen with a peak brightness of 3000 nits. The iPhone’s display, while smaller, provides a more compact and refined viewing experience. In terms of software, the difference lies in the ecosystems: Apple’s iOS 18 offers more security and optimization, while Xiaomi’s HyperOS provides more freedom in customization.
Advantages: For media consumption and outdoor visibility, the Xiaomi 14 Pro holds a slight edge due to its larger, brighter display. However, if software smoothness, security, and app optimization are priorities, the iPhone 16 Pro remains the better option with its seamless iOS experience.
Which is Better? For media lovers and those who value a bright, immersive display, the Xiaomi 14 Pro wins this round. However, for users deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem and who prefer a more optimized software experience, the iPhone 16 Pro may be the better choice.
Performance and Battery Features:
The iPhone 16 Pro is powered by the Apple A18 Pro chip (3 nm), with a Hexa-core CPU and Apple’s custom 6-core GPU. Paired with 8GB of RAM, it ensures top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications. The battery capacity stands at 3582 mAh, with wired PD2.0 fast charging and up to 25W wireless MagSafe charging.
The Xiaomi 14 Pro utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm), featuring an octa-core CPU and Adreno 750 GPU. It is available with up to 16GB of RAM, making it a powerhouse for multitasking and gaming. Its 4880 mAh battery supports ultra-fast 120W wired charging, which promises a full charge in just 18 minutes, and 50W wireless charging.
Similarities: Both devices offer cutting-edge processors, ensuring smooth performance in daily tasks and high-demand scenarios. Neither phone supports expandable storage, although they offer substantial internal storage options.
Differences: The Xiaomi 14 Pro comes with a significantly larger battery and much faster charging capabilities. The 120W wired charging speed is one of the fastest in the industry, while the iPhone 16 Pro, though offering solid charging options, lags behind in terms of raw charging speed and battery size.
Advantages: If you’re seeking a phone with outstanding battery life and the ability to quickly recharge, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is the better option. However, Apple’s A18 Pro chip remains one of the most efficient and powerful processors on the market, which could mean better long-term performance for iPhone users.
Which is Better? For sheer power and battery management, the Xiaomi 14 Pro stands out. However, the iPhone 16 Pro may still appeal to those who value efficiency and the long-term reliability of Apple’s chips.
Cameras Features:
Photo is from：iPhone 16 Pro
The iPhone 16 Pro is equipped with a triple-camera setup, featuring a 48 MP main wide sensor, a 12 MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom, and a 48 MP ultrawide lens. It also has a TOF 3D LiDAR scanner for depth sensing. Video capabilities are exceptional, with 4K recording at up to 120fps, Dolby Vision, and 3D spatial video.
TheXiaomi 14 Proalso boasts a triple-camera system, including a 50 MP wide-angle lens with variable aperture, a 50 MP telephoto lens with 3.2x optical zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide sensor. It features Leica optics and advanced video recording options, including 8K at 24fps, 4K at up to 60fps, and gyro-EIS.
Similarities: Both phones offer triple-camera systems with wide, telephoto, and ultrawide lenses. They also support advanced video recording technologies like Dolby Vision and high frame rates.
Differences: TheiPhone 16 Profeatures a more advanced LiDAR sensor for depth and spatial video recording, while Xiaomi’s14 Prooffers a unique variable aperture on the main lens for greater control over exposure. Xiaomi also supports 8K video recording, which Apple currently lacks.
Advantages: For photography, theXiaomi 14 Prooffers more control with its variable aperture and advanced Leica optics, while theiPhone 16 Proexcels in depth sensing and video recording, particularly with its 3D spatial video feature.
Which is Better?If photography is your priority, theXiaomi 14 Prooffers more flexibility and customization. For videographers and those invested in Apple’s ecosystem, theiPhone 16 Prois a better fit.
Which is the Better Buy? Both the iPhone 16 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Pro are exceptional flagship devices that cater to different audiences. The Xiaomi 14 Pro shines in terms of display quality, battery life, charging speeds, and flexibility in photography. Its aggressive pricing compared to the iPhone makes it a strong contender for users seeking value without sacrificing premium features.
The iPhone 16 Pro, however, offers unmatched software optimization, stronger water resistance, and long-term performance, making it a better choice for users already integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Its camera features, particularly for video and depth sensing, are also more advanced.
Our Opinion: If you’re an Android enthusiast who doesn’t want to break the bank and need good battery and charging speed, then Xiaomi 14 Pro is the best option. However, if you’re invested in Apple’s ecosystem and value software reliability, then go for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Apple Intelligence isn’t available at launch, but the features that are available make the iPhone 16 Pro Max a formidable phone.
（iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max）
Verdict After four years of relatively unchanged designs, Apple increased the screen size on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, delivering a larger 6.9-inch OLED panel that makes a sizeable difference in daily use. Combine that with a bigger battery that lasts longer, an even more powerful chipset, and terrific cameras with a host of new features, and you get one of the best overall packages available today. While there are a few shortcomings — the Camera Control button isn’t all that it’s made out to be, and Apple Intelligence is yet to go live — the iPhone 16 Pro Max is an instant recommendation if you’re coming from an older device.
Pros +Bigger OLED panel with ultra-thin bezels +Better cameras than last year +Class-leading hardware +Outstanding battery life +Good software with long-term updates Cons -No Apple Intelligence features at launch -Slow charging tech -Camera Control is fiddly to use
The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes with the usual set of upgrades that we expect from Apple: it is faster in daily use, has better cameras, and the battery life is better than its predecessor. But there are other changes this year, notably around the screen. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a larger 6.9-inch panel, but it isn’t that much bigger than its predecessor.
The increased screen size means you get an additional line of text, and the bezels are even thinner this generation. There’s also a new Camera Control button that unlocks additional controls and makes it easy to shoot photos and videos. While I was initially excited about the hardware button, it was unwieldy to use in the two weeks I tested the iPhone 16 Pro Max — it should have been integrated into the power button, similar to what ASUS did on the Zenfone 10 last year.
While there’s plenty of new stuff on the phone, there’s a glaring omission: Apple Intelligence. Apple’s much-touted AI features won’t be available until early 2025, and that puts the iPhone 16 Pro Max in an awkward position; the hardware itself is an iterative upgrade over last year, and you’ll need to wait at least three months to unlock what is arguably its best feature. So should you wait until next year to buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max? Let’s take a look.
Apple didn’t change the design of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and the phone looks identical to its predecessor. The only way to tell both phones apart is that the latest device is taller and wider than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, but other than that, they share the same design.
That means you get a titanium mid-frame with a glass front and back, and the glass protection is touted to be even better this year. While I tend to test the effectiveness of these claims with Android phones (inadvertently, most of the time), I wasn’t willing to risk that with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and I put it in a case shortly after setting it up.
The phone has the same flat sides with rounded edges, and the beveled sides make it easier to use than previous years. The build quality is predictably great, and while this isn’t a brand-new design, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is immediately recognizable. The phone retains IP68 dust and water resistance, and like last year, it can be submerged in up to 6 meters of water — most Android phones are only rated at up to 1.5 meters.
While the design itself hasn’t changed, the iPhone 16 Pro Max comes in an interesting Desert Titanium color option, and this is the variant I’m using. Apple switched out the Blue Titanium model of the iPhone 15 Pro Max with the new color option, and it looks terrific. The subtle gold hue looks great on the frosted glass back, and the color-matched camera rings and mid-frame give the phone a distinct character.
If you don’t like the color, you can pick up the device in White Titanium, Black Titanium, and Natural Titanium options instead. The camera housing has the same distinctive design as previous years, and is slightly raised; thankfully, there are no issues with usability.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is 4.1mm taller and 0.9mm wider than its predecessor, and the increased dimensions make it a bit unwieldy to use one-handed. It is taller than the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Pixel 9 Pro XL, and only the Nubia Z60 Ultra dwarfs the iPhone 16 Pro Max in this regard.
A major highlight this year is the introduction of Camera Control, a button that sits to the right. It is an intriguing addition in that not many brands provide hardware controls for the camera, and it is versatile: you can use it to take photos with a short press, and a long press switches to video. The best feature is the ability to adjust zoom level by sliding your finger across the capacitive button, and a double tap allows you to unlock additional controls.
While the idea is undoubtedly novel, the button is in a non-optimal location. It’s awkward to access, and while adjusting the zoom level isn’t that much of a hassle, it was always a bother to switch to other controls. Then there’s the fact that video recording is only enabled as long as you press down on the button. After a week of use, I realized it was easier to just use the settings on the viewfinder to change controls than rely on the button. I also inadvertently pressed the button whenever picking up the phone off a table, and that was irksome.
The left side of the frame contains the usual options: volume up and down, and the Action Button that debuted last year. The SIM card tray sits to the left as well, and you get the ability to slot in a physical SIM alongside an eSIM — if you’re outside the U.S. USB-C charging is intact, and it makes using the iPhone 16 Pro Max that much easier. I wrote about how the switch to USB-C last year allowed me to use the iPhone 15 Pro Max a lot longer than I usually would, and that’s true this year as well.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Pricing and availability
The iPhone 16 Pro Max made its official debut on September 9, and the phone went on sale globally on September 20. Similar to last year, the base model has 256GB of storage, and it is available in 512GB and 1TB variants as well — I’m using the 512GB model.
In a positive move, Apple is offering the iPhone 16 Pro Max at the same price as last year’s models, and this is true not just in the U.S., but also key global markets like the U.K. and Germany. This is what the iPhone 16 Pro Max costs in various regions:
iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB): $1,199 / £1,199 / €1,449 / NZ$2,399 iPhone 16 Pro Max (512GB): $1,399 / £1,399 / €1,699 / NZ$2,799 iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB): $1,599 / £1,599 / €1,949 / NZ$3,199
Category
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
OS
iOS 18.0.1 pre-installed, five OS updates
Display
6.9-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, 2868 x 1320, Dolby Vision, 2000 nits max (HBM)
Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium, Black Titanium, White Titanium
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Display
After four years of using 6.7-inch panels, Apple is increasing the screen size in the Pro Max series to 6.9 inches. The size difference is immediately evident when using the iPhone 16 Pro Max next to its predecessor, and what I like the most about is that the phone itself isn’t noticeably bigger; Apple achieved this by trimming the bezels, and the overall effect is quite striking.
In real-world use, that means you get an additional line of text when browsing. The OLED panel itself is one of the best on any phone today; it has ProMotion tech — dynamic 120Hz refresh — along with HDR10 and Dolby Vision. The resolution is slightly higher at 2868 x 1320, but the pixel density is the same as last year, and the Ceramic Shield protection delivers 50% increased resilience against tumbles.
Overall, this is one of the best screens available today, and that’s evident when streaming HDR content or playing games. You get vibrant colors with excellent contrast, and while there isn’t as much customizability when it comes to color tonality, True Tone automatically tweaks color balance based on ambient light, and it does a good job in this regard.
I didn’t see any issues with brightness levels either, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max is among the best in this area as well. That said, the Pixel 9 Pro XL got noticeably brighter in outdoor use, and Google somehow managed to outdo every other brand this year.
Dynamic Island is unchanged from last year, and while the pill-sized cutout is bigger than what you get with Android devices, it isn’t as unsightly as the previous notch. The ability to use this area for actionable things like music control and navigation alerts is still great, and while Android brands have tried to emulate it, no one came close.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Battery life
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger 4685mAh battery, and you get noticeable gains in daily use. I got an hour and a half of additional screen-time versus the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and that’s a sizeable achievement in and of itself. The phone lasts a day even with heavy use, and most of the time, I averaged a day and a half between charges.
The charging situation is where things aren’t any better. The iPhone 16 Pro Max takes an agonizing amount of time to charge, and while it gets to 45% in 30 minutes, it takes an additional 80 minutes to charge the battery entirely. While the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Galaxy S24 Ultra don’t have fast charging either, these devices don’t take anywhere as long to charge, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max continues to lag behind its rivals.
Chinese brands are in a league of their own in this area, with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Vivo X100 Ultra taking under 45 minutes to charge their batteries. That said, the iPhone 16 Pro Max has an advantage with wireless charging, with MagSafe now going up to 25W. The phone also works with the Qi2 standard — something Android phones haven’t gotten around to yet — and you can get 15W charging via a Qi2 stand.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Cameras The iPhone 16 Pro Max doesn’t have drastically different camera hardware, with the phone using a similar 48MP main camera with sensor-shift OIS as last year. The 12MP telephoto lens is unchanged as well, and it delivers 5x optical zoom and OIS. There’s now a 48MP wide-angle lens, and up front is a 12MP lens with OIS.
Camera Control is a key hardware addition this time, and while it is good to quickly pull up the camera and take a photo, the button isn’t in the best location, and it isn’t intuitive to use. After trying out the button for a week, I went back to adjusting viewfinder controls the usual way.
What you’ll like better is the overhauled Photographic Styles, which now allows you to drastically change the look and feel of a photo. There are 15 preset tones you can use out of the box, but where the feature truly comes into its own is the ability to tweak these presets to your liking by changing the undertones and contrast selection. The result is that you get wildly different photos by switching up the tones, and there is extensive customizability in this regard.
I’ve always enjoyed shooting macros with iPhones, and the 16 Pro Max lets you take high-res macro shots. Video is an area where the phone continues to dominate, and this year, you can shoot 4K in 120fps with HDR, and that’s just incredible. The new ISP encoder able to handle the increased bandwidth, and what I like the most about this feature is that you can slow down footage to 60fps or 30fps after the fact via the built-in editor.
You can also record spatial audio, and it is enabled by default. What’s cool about this feature is that you can then reduce background noise, or create a cinematic effect with ambient noises pushed to the background. You can do this by selecting Audio Mix in the editor, and it works incredibly well.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max doesn’t deviate too much from its predecessor when it comes to color rendition, with resultant daylight shots having good white balance and color accuracy. You don’t get saturated photos like Samsung’s phones or the contrast-rich images that are a characteristic of Pixels. The phone does just as good a job in low-light conditions, but it is a bit aggressive with smoothening details. That said, the new Styles give you incredible customizability with tonal balance, and you can easily change the look of your photos.
The wide-angle lens is similarly great, and it doubles as a macro shooter, giving you the ability to take close-up shots. There is some noise in low-light shots taken with the wide-angle lens, and while it has good color rendition, it doesn’t measure up to the Vivo X100 Pro in this regard.
The zoom lens is relatively unchanged, and it manages to deliver clean shots at up to 5x. You get usable photos at 10x as well, but there’s visible noise — more so than the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Portraits are similarly great, and you get good background segmentation. That said, they’re nowhere as detailed as the Vivo X100 Ultra or the Find X7 Ultra; these two devices still have a distinct edge when it comes to portrait shots.
Overall, the iPhone 16 Pro Max does a better job than its predecessor, and it holds up incredibly well against the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Vivo’s X100 Pro and X100 Ultra and the Find X7 Ultra are much better in low-light situations and portrait shots, but as an all-round package, the iPhone 16 Pro Max does more than enough to stand out against its rivals.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: The competition
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is the obvious alternative to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It feels like Google went out of its way to make the 9 Pro XL look like an iPhone, and it does a good job in that regard. You still get a distinctive camera housing at the back, but the flat sides and chunkier design makes it feel like an iPhone in everyday use. The 9 Pro XL doesn’t have the same caliber of hardware, but it has an OLED panel that gets brighter, outstanding cameras, and the best AI features of any phone available today.
If you need a phone with plenty of power, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is a good choice to consider as well. The software isn’t as good as what you get on the Pixel — or the iPhone 16 Pro Max — but you get seven years of updates, and Samsung bundles a decent set of AI tools with Galaxy AI.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Should you buy it?
You should buy this if:
You need an iPhone with a sizeable OLED panel
You want the best hardware on a phone
You need standout cameras
You want better battery life
You shouldn’t buy this if:
You want the latest AI features
You need the best charging tech
You have an iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a great phone that promises to get even better when Apple Intelligence becomes available. You don’t need to wait until the AI features roll out if you’re looking to upgrade from an older iPhone; there are enough new features to distinguish it from its predecessors. The most noticeable difference is the bigger OLED panel, and while it makes the phone even taller, it is a welcome upgrade.
But what you’ll actually end up liking is the battery longevity; the iPhone 16 Pro Max lasts significantly longer than its predecessor, and that in itself is enough of an upgrade to entice older iPhone users to make the switch. Other battery-related tweaks should curb battery degradation — something that was a major issue on the iPhone 14 series — and while the charging situation is in need of an overhaul, 25W MagSafe is a decent workaround in the meantime.
There’s little incentive to move if you’re already using the iPhone 15 Pro Max, but if you’re on an older device and are mulling an upgrade, you should get the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Ahoy, camera button! The iPhone 16 Pro Max is Apple’s largest smartphone. Its display has once again grown and this year, a dedicated camera button has found its way onto the iPhone. However, it has more to offer than just that, even if Apple Intelligence isn’t yet available in the EU.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max follows last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max. Amongst other things, the smartphone has been given a more modern SoC, which forms an important basis for the new Apple Intelligence. Unfortunately, the AI functions from Apple won’t be coming to the EU for the time being and even in the US, they will follow at a later date.
Aside from a new chipset, its camera has been given a new ultra-wide-angle sensor, Wi-Fi 7 is finally on board, it features an improved Ceramic Shield and has a dedicated camera button. In addition, the iPhone is said to be even more sustainable, as it is now easier to repair and is manufactured using more recycled materials.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (iPhone 16 Series) Processor:Apple A18 Pro 6 x – 4 GHz Graphics adapter:Apple A18 Pro GPU Memory:8 GB, LPDDR5 Display:6.90 inch 19.55:9, 2868 x 1320 pixel 458 PPI, Capacitive, Super Retina XDR OLED, Ceramic Shield, LTPO 1 – 120 Hz, Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating, glossy: yes, HDR, 120 Hz Storage:256 GB NVMe, 256 GB , 238 GB free Weight：227 g ( = 8.01 oz / 0.5 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds) Price：NZ$2,399 Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.
The Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max continues to rely on a frame made of a titanium alloy and weighing in at 227 grams, it is a little heavier. According to the manufacturer, it has a thickness of 8.25 millimeters, while we measured 8.3 millimeters. The camera hump has grown a little, now adding an additional 4.3 millimeters (15 Pro Max: 4.1 mm), resulting in a build height of 12.6 millimeters at the thickest point.
Even so, the iPhone 16 Pro Max isn’t top-heavy and feels comfortable to hold despite its size. Its build quality is great and the feel of the materials is excellent. All the gaps are tight and even. Only a slight creaking noise could be heard when trying to twist it. The SIM slot cover sits flush with the frame and even the tray for the nano-SIM is made of metal.
The Apple smartphone is IP68-certified, so it is dust and waterproof. It also complies with the IEC standard 60529, meaning it can be submerged to a depth of up to six meters for at least 30 minutes without any problems. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is available in Natural Titanium, white, black and Desert Titanium. The latter is the color of our test device.
Connectivity – The iPhone 16 series with a camera button
(Image credit: Apple) The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a fast USB 3.2 port (Gen 2), which achieved high transfer rates of 498.85 MB/s in our copying test with a connected Samsung 980 Pro (Asus ROG Strix Arion Case, USB 3.2 Gen. 2). External data carriers can be formatted with all file systems commonly used by Apple, and FAT32 and exFAT are also supported. The interface also supports wired image output in Ultra HD at up to 60 frames per second and HDR.
The action button is also on board once more and adding to this on the opposite long side of the phone is a dedicated camera button. In itself, this isn’t really anything new, as you can also find this feature in other phones, such as the Xperia 1 VI. However, Apple has come up with some new ideas, as the button is also a sensor surface that can recognize pressure and swipe gestures and is protected by sapphire glass. The camera can be launched directly using this button—a long press starts a video recording, and you can use swipe gestures to change the depth of field, for example. An upcoming update will also allow different pressure levels to be recognized in order to control the autofocus and exposure even more effectively. Whether the button represents added value probably depends on personal preference. In any case, it already works very well.
Moreover, the phone comes with a 2nd-gen ultra-wideband chip (UWB), Bluetooth 5.3 as well as NFC.
Software – The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes with iOS 18 The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes delivered with iOS 18 and in our test, it ran using version 18.0.1. It will likely receive updates for at least five years. iOS 18 sees Apple having added lots of customization options and laying the foundation for Apple Intelligence.
These are AI functions that are intended to enable intelligent image and video editing, for example to remove unwanted objects or people from images. Apple’s AI can also summarize, write or correct texts. Siri should also benefit by filtering out slips of the tongue or answering follow-up questions. The first version will be rolled out in the US with iOS 18.1, with other English-speaking regions to follow by the end of the year. Only the EU has been left out in the cold so far, which Apple justifies with uncertainties in connection with the European Digital Markets Act (DMA). It will therefore probably not be available before the first quarter of 2025, but Apple wants to create the linguistic basis by then. Why Samsung and Google, among others, are already able to offer very similar and even more AI functions in Europe will probably remain the Californians’ secret.
Cameras – New ultra-wide angle and Ultra HD at 120fps
The iPhone 16 Pro Max’s front-facing camera has remained unchanged, and it comes with an autofocus once more. The photos look great and there are lots of settings options. You can record video in Ultra HD at best (60fps, Dolby Vision).
The main camera has a 48-MP sensor which uses optical image stabilization with a sensor-shift (Gen 2). A 3D sensor shift also stabilizes the zoom, which again allows 5x optical magnification and 25x digital magnification. New, however, is the 48-MP ultra-wide-angle sensor which also serves as a macro lens.
The primary camera uses pixel binning and usually takes pictures at 24 MP (12 and 48 MP are also possible). The resulting shots look good overall and can be customized individually or using predefined settings via the photography styles if required. Compared to the competition, however, its slightly lower dynamic range is noticeable in the lake scene. The iPhone also delivers a strong performance in low light. The main lens nominally shoots with a focal length of 24 mm. However, 28 and 35 mm can also be used without loss via a sensor crop. 5x optical zoom is available for longer focal lengths and can also be used digitally up to a tenfold magnification. A maximum of 25x zoom is possible, the results of which can be seen during post-processing, but they are basically still okay as long as their use doesn’t go beyond social media. The image stabilization works very well and keeps things looking stable even at longer focal lengths. However, the camera button can hardly be used in this case, as its pressure point is very firm, which can quickly lead to the camera shaking when zooming.
Videos can be recorded in Ultra HD at best, with frame rates ranging from 24 to 120fps, including PAL formats at 25, 50 and 100fps. Dolby Vision is also on board again. If required, videos can be recorded in ProRes, provided an external data carrier is connected to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. You can even do so at a high frame rate. These 10-bit HDR recordings are possible in Ultra HD at up to 120fps, but require more storage space due to their lower compression and are limited to 8 minutes. The new 120fps recordings make impressive slow-motion videos possible, including Dolby Vision. Spatial videos for Vision Pro (1,080p @ 30fps) can also be recorded.
Apple promises nothing less than studio quality for its microphones, and they actually proved to be very low-noise during our test. With the new Audio Mix tool, the sound post-processing of videos is very extensive and you can even suppress unwanted noises outside the image, which can also be graded and works wonderfully in everyday life.
Sustainability The packaging of the iPhone 16 Pro Max is completely plastic-free and, according to Apple, the smartphone is made from over 25 % recycled materials and features a high recycling rate. You can find all the details on Apple’s website, including detailed sustainability reports on most of its products.
Apple has additionally improved the iPhone’s repairability, as confirmed by our colleagues at iFixit. Many components are now easier to access and can be replaced without damaging the device. However, Apple still doesn’t sell spare parts to private individuals.
Compared to the 15 Pro Max, our 256-GB version’s CO2 footprint over its entire life cycle has only been slightly reduced from 75 to 74 kg CO2e. The 1-TB version uses 3 kg less.
Communication and GNSS – Wi-Fi 7 without 320 MHz
The iPhone comes without 320 MHz support, halving its potential data rates. At first, there was great joy: Wi-Fi 7 at last! But then a little disillusionment set in, as the iPhone 16 Pro Max only supports up to 160 MHz and is therefore just as fast as when using the Wi-Fi 6E network.
While its transmission rates to our reference router, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 (Wi-Fi 6E, 6 GHz), reached a peak of 1,435 MBit/s when transmitting, we noted 1,427 MBit/s with Wi-Fi 7 to an AVM Fritz!Box 5690 Pro (Wi-Fi 7, MLO, 6 GHz). For comparison: the Xiaomi 14 achieves 2,382 MBit/s on the same AVM router, whereby the 2.5 GBit port of the router is the bottleneck, as the Xiaomi even manages up to 3,957 MBit/s on the TP-Link Archer BE800. However, the iPhone’s transmission performance is still stable and MLO is also supported.
When it comes to mobile communications, the Apple smartphone is exemplary, as it supports a large number of frequency bands for all standards, so it should be able to establish the best possible connection worldwide.
Telephone functions and call quality When held up to your ear, the iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers natural voice sound and also does a good job of suppressing annoying ambient noise—provided it isn’t too loud. In loudspeaker mode, the iPhone also performs well, but the user then sounds somewhat muffled.
The Apple smartphone still supports a physical nano SIM card in Germany, where this test was carried out, and can also be expanded with an eSIM. Dual SIM operation is also only possible with eSIMs. In the USA, the phone no longer comes with a physical SIM card slot.
The dual SIM function can be configured extensively during setup: A primary call line must be defined, which can be individually adjusted later for each contact. Both phone numbers can be used for FaceTime if required. Mobile data can be set to one SIM, but the cell phone can optionally switch to the other line if the primary line is too weak. One small drawback is the lack of dual app support. Although this can be compensated for via apps from the App Store, there is always a charge.
Accessories and warranty – Now without a sticker Apple has further slimmed down the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s scope of delivery, but it still comes with a SIM tool and a USB-C cable. The latter is again covered in fabric. However, there is no longer an Apple sticker included.
The range of optional accessories continues to grow, not least thanks to protective covers from Beats , which are also MagSafe-compatible. If you still need a suitable power supply unit (30 watts), you will have to invest US$39 for the rather bulky original model.
Its warranty only lasts for 12 months. You can also take out an optional insurance package called Care+. This costs a one-off fee of US$199 and includes unlimited repairs in the event of accidental damage, express replacement service and priority support. Depending on the damage, additional charges may apply. Theft and loss can also be insured for US$269, which covers up to two cases per year. If you prefer, you can also pay for the service on a monthly basis (US$9.99 or US$13.49), which has a minimum term of two years, but can also run for longer.
Battery life – The iPhone 16 Pro Max with over 18 Wh Power consumption The iPhone 16 Pro Max has quite a low power consumption which has been greatly improved compared to the 15 Pro Max, especially when switched off. Compared to the competition, its consumption is higher with maximum manual display brightness, but this is due to its higher luminosity.
The iPhone can be charged at 4.5 to 30 watts but it actually doesn’t work as effectively. Using a 30-watt power supply from Apple, the 4,685 mAh battery can be charged to 54 % within 30 minutes—the 80 % mark is reached after one hour and the iPhone needs a further 64 minutes for the remaining 20 %. All in all, this is a very long time, but it also saves battery power.
7.5 watts can be used wirelessly via Qi and 15 watts using Qi2. Up to 25 watts are possible with a MagSafe charger. The iPhone can charge other devices via USB-C at up to 4.5 watts.
Verdict – The bar has been raised again
The Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a good total package. Although it only comes with some minor improvements compared to last year’s model, the leap is still big if you’re coming from an iPhone 13 Pro or an older model. The smartphone boasts a brilliant display, great performance and a versatile camera setup.
The Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max is clearly no bargain, but it is a true powerhouse.
From a hardware standpoint, Apple has done lots right—only its lack of the 320-MHz band for Wi-Fi 7 is a little confusing. We would also like to have seen at least one high-res codec for Bluetooth.
Its charging speeds aren’t particularly fast, but this is because Apple has placed its focus on the longevity of its energy storage units. Even so, a little more could definitely have been possible.
Why the new Apple Intelligence functions aren’t being released directly in Europe remains questionable. By the time this happens, Samsung’s Galaxy AI will have been on the market for more than a year.
Within the Apple universe, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the measure of all things; if you prefer smaller smartphones, then the iPhone 16 Pro could be a viable alternative. If you’d like to make use of AI functions immediately, then you should take a look at the Galaxy S24 Ultra or the Magic6 Pro, which also has a lot going for itself.
Price and availability You can purchase the new Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max directly from Apple, as well as from most major online retailers, including Amazon.
Our Verdict The iPhone 16 Pro Max looks almost identical to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, aside from slimmer bezels and one new button. But for real change, you must look within, with excellent performance, great battery life and a slew of AI features on the way, even if most aren’t available at launch. There’s no doubt that this is one of the very best phones you can buy, though it has a price tag to match
From the outside, the iPhone 16 Pro Max only looks like a minor refinement of its predecessor – especially with the design largely unchanged.
But, with its 6.9-inch display and titanium body, it’s bigger, heavier, and ever-so-slightly more robust than the iPhone 15 Pro Max. And, of course, there’s the new Camera Control button, which yes is a physical button.
Spend some time with Apple’s latest flagship, and you’ll notice several changes (mostly on the inside) that significantly impact how you’ll use the device, especially if you’re into photography or the latest AI features.
While the A18 Pro chip makes this phone a raw performance beast, Apple has put a lot of its future into Apple Intelligence – its answer to AI. The addition of the Camera Control button and upcoming Visual Intelligence capabilities also speaks to Apple’s ambition to redefine how we interact with the world through our phones.
Titanium build is premium, durable, and aids in heat dissipation
Camera Control button is innovative but questionable
The iPhone 16 Pro Max maintains Apple’s recent design ethos, making only slight adjustments. It’s a premium-looking device, and its rounder corners and Natural Titanium colour option were clear influences on the Pixel 9 lineup.
This year’s new colour option is Desert Titanium, the goldish hue that has divided the internet. While the phone looks almost identical to the iPhone 15 Pro Max at first glance, there are some differences.
Thinner bezels around the screen make the already huge display feel even more expansive. Despite the display growing to a massive 6.9 inches, Apple has managed to keep the device almost the same size as last year’s model, making it feel like you’re holding more screen than phone.
The Super Retina XDR OLED panel now stretches further into the corners, creating a more immersive visual experience for both gaming and media consumption.
The titanium body, a grade 5 titanium frame over a graphite-clad aluminium substructure, has been further refined this time around. It gives the device a premium feel while also improving heat dissipation. The edges of the iPhone 16 Pro Max have been softened, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods despite its larger size.
At 6g heavier than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, I didn’t notice much difference in handling. However, if you’re used to regular phones, this 227g handset might come as a shock.
The larger display size is also immediately evident. For me, it strikes the perfect balance between weight and build quality – this is a phone that feels robust but not bulky.
One new addition I appreciate is the Camera Control button, which Apple insists isn’t quite a button – but it is. It sits recessed, offering gesture control and a quick launch to the camera, much like the Action button introduced last year.
For me, the iPhone 16 Pro Max strikes the perfect balance between weight and build quality I’ll talk more about the Camera Control later, but will share some early thoughts now. While I found the Camera Control useful for photography, it sometimes competes with the Action button for relevance. Apple may need to rethink the function of the older Action button in future iterations, as it feels underused compared to this newer control.
See how Apple and third-party case makers have dealt with the Camera Control in our roundup of the best cases for iPhone 16.
Screen & Speakers
6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED with 120Hz
Great outdoor visibility with 2000 nits of peak brightness
Stereo speakers provide clear, loud sound with decent bass
This 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display is Apple’s largest yet, and it’s a beauty. The thinner bezels allow for more screen real estate without significantly increasing the device’s physical size.
At 460ppi, the display isn’t as pixel-dense as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (505ppi), but Apple’s colour accuracy and HDR performance make it hard to notice any shortcomings. Apple has maintained its wide-color gamut, meaning colors are incredibly vibrant, yet remain natural and true to life.
With 2000 nits peak brightness outdoors and a new 1 nit low setting for nighttime use, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best displays on the market. Whether I’m streaming Netflix or playing a game, the visuals are vibrant and smooth, thanks to ProMotion’s 120Hz refresh rate. And the new support for 1 nit of brightness comes in particularly handy when using my phone in bed at night.
This 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display is Apple’s largest yet, and it’s a beauty The 1 nit support still extends to the Always-On Display, letting you check notifications, time, or other widgets without fully unlocking the phone. It also dims intelligently to save power when not in use. While I personally don’t use the Always-On Display, it is a hit feature after being introduced a few years ago.
Then we get to the stereo speakers. While not dramatically improved from the previous model, the iPhone 16 Pro Max still offer loud, crisp sound with decent bass. For a phone this size, it’s a surprisingly capable audio device.
Specs & Performance
Powered by the A18 Pro chipset – up to 20% faster than last year
Great for gaming and multitasking
8GB RAM is low compared to competitors, but performs well due to optimisation
Powering the iPhone 16 Pro Max is Apple’s latest and greatest A18 Pro chipset, which is a significant step up from the A17 Pro, particularly when it comes to AI performance and graphical power.
According to Apple, it has a 15% faster CPU and 20% faster GPU than last year’s model. I can’t verify those figures but can say that it offers blisteringly fast performance across the board. That applies whether you’re editing 4K video, running the latest AAA mobile games, or simply multitasking between apps.
It also comes equipped with a 16-core Neural Engine, enabling more advanced machine learning and AI capabilities. It’s a big factor in making these devices capable of the full range of Apple Intelligence features, which I’ll explore in more detail later.
Gaming enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the iPhone 16 Pro Max supports ray tracing at double the speed of the A17 Pro, which makes for more realistic lighting and reflections in games available on iOS. During my tests, the device handled everything I threw at it, from graphically intensive games like Death Stranding to video editing on Adobe Premiere Rush.
The A18 Pro breezed through it all without a hiccup, though the device did get a bit warm after extended gaming sessions. However, it was noticeably less warm than the iPhone 15 Pro Max. For an extra test, I set both phones to record 4K videos for around 30 minutes. Then, using a laser thermometer, I recorded how warm both devices got over the area where the processor sits. The iPhone 16 Pro Max was between 3-4c cooler than the 15 Pro Max.
While competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offer up to 12GB of RAM, Apple sticks with 8GB in the iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, Apple’s custom optimization ensures the device runs incredibly smoothly, even when handling demanding tasks or multitasking. Storage options start at 256GB and go all the way up to 1TB, providing plenty of space for apps, games, photos, and videos.
Cameras
48Mp main camera, 48Mp ultrawide, 12Mp 5x telephoto
Camera Control button offers gesture-based camera controls
4K 120fps slow-motion video, and new AI audio features
Apple has always placed a strong emphasis on photography, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max is no different. While the camera specs may seem familiar, Apple has introduced some major hardware and software upgrades that make this one of the most powerful camera systems available.
The 48Mp Fusion camera and 48Mp ultrawide camera are the stars of the show here. Apple has upgraded the sensor behind the main camera, enabling faster autofocus and improved low-light performance. Even in challenging lighting conditions, the iPhone 16 Pro Max captures impressive detail without oversaturating colours or introducing noise.
The ultrawide lens, which has been upgraded to 48Mp for the first time, offers sharper, clearer photos at wide angles. This is particularly useful for landscapes, architecture shots, or group photos. The improved macro capabilities also stand out, making it easier to capture tiny details without sacrificing quality.
The 12MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom also features so-called tetraprism technology, which helps to ensure minimal distortion, even at higher zoom levels. While this was exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year, this time around it is also available on the smaller iPhone 16 Pro.
I found the zoom performance to be excellent, especially when taking photos of distant subjects, where the image stabilisation helped keep everything crisp and steady. Compared to competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which offers a higher zoom range, the iPhone still holds its own with superior colour accuracy and dynamic range.
Battery Life & Charging
Long-lasting battery life of 14-16 hours with typical use
Apple has stayed quiet on the mAh number
Faster MagSafe charging and Qi2 support
Apple has significantly improved the battery life in the iPhone 16 Pro Max, thanks to both hardware and software advancements. Even with the larger 6.9-inch display, the battery life is excellent, and I consistently got 14 to 16 hours of regular use on a single charge.
In fact, when trying to deplete the battery in order to test the charging speeds (see below), I actually found it difficult to run the battery down to 0. A combination of gaming, filming, and gaming managed to do the trick – but it was no easy feat.
Of course, Apple won’t tell us the exact mAh figure of the battery, though GSMArena estimates it to be 4685mAh. However, the brand does claim that this is the biggest battery ever seen in an iPhone. So far, that seems true, and my results line up with Apple’s estimates.
This all-day battery performance is primarily due to the power efficiency of the A18 Pro chip, which optimises power consumption during less demanding tasks. Whether I was streaming video, using GPS for navigation, or taking photos throughout the day, the phone easily made it to the evening with battery to spare.
Apple has also enhanced MagSafe charging, which is now faster than ever before. Apple claims the phone can charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using a 30W charger, which is impressive for a battery of this size. In my testing, it beat that, getting from 0-50% in 28 minutes. Also, this year the USB-C port has been bumped up to Thunderbolt 4, enabling faster data transfer.
It also supports Qi2 wireless charging, making it future-proof as more third-party charging pads adopt this new standard. Though USB-C is now standard for charging, the iPhone 16 Pro Max can also be used to charge other devices, like AirPods or an Apple Watch, through reverse wireless charging.
Should you buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max? The iPhone 16 Pro Max builds on what Apple does best – elegant design, powerful performance, and excellent cameras.
The introduction of Apple Intelligence and the Camera Control button makes this phone especially appealing to photographers and those interested in AI-enhanced functionality. The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen is the best Apple has ever produced, while the A18 Pro chip ensures that the phone is future-proof for years to come.
However, the full potential of Apple’s AI features is not yet available, and with many features not launching until later in the year, some users may want to wait.
The Android world was quick to turn sci-fi folding displays into tech reality. Samsung, Google, Motorola, OnePlus, Xiaomi… almost every brand has a flip-style or book-style foldable on their books – or is about to, looking at Stuff’s list of upcoming smartphones. So when can we expect Apple to follow suit?
iPhone fans are in the dark as to whether Apple is experimenting with folding or flipping designs, and will likely stay that way until the firm makes it official – unless the leakers and tipsters get their way before the grand reveal, that is. Here’s everything we know so far about a potential “iPhone Flip” or “iPhone Fold”.
Apple hasn’t made any significant design changes to the iPhone range for a few years now. The iPhone 16‘s vertical camera bumps and new colour options are the biggest departure, but the flat sides, flat screen and rounded corners are very similar to previous efforts. Not even the new camera control touch button breaks the iPhone’s distinctive lines.
Patents awarded to Apple related to foldable phone concepts don’t give much away, with rather generic-looking handsets shown in the diagrams filed to the US patent office. Patent number US10955880B2 describes a hinge mechanism for foldable phones, while patent number US11550369B2 describes a multi-layered construction for flip phones.
Additionally, Apple has obtained at least five US patents related to a possible iPhone Fold. Among these, patent number US10694624B2 describes a foldable smartphone with an exposed display region. Another depicts a foldable phone with a self-healing crease.
The fact Apple holds these patents doesn’t even guarantee a foldable iPhone is on the way, but does suggest the company is considering it.
In 2022, reputable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that a foldable iPhone would not launch until at least 2025. Another influential Apple analyst, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, said an “iPhone Fold” would eventually arrive, but “it may be quite a while.” This was seemingly backed up by industry analyst Trendforce, indicating it will now be 2027 at the earliest. This is reportedly because foldable displays don’t meet Apple’s standards for reliability, and a visible crease is deemed unacceptable.
But the latest news brings things forwards a little. A new report from Digitimes reveals that Apple has signed a contract with Samsung for display panels. Typically, this happens two years ahead of a product’s release, which would put the first foldable iPhone on the cards for 2026. This report also revealed that Apple will opt for a top-down folding design, like the Galaxy Flip. It should be around the same size as current iPhones when unfolded.
Apple likes to stay up-to-date with what’s hot in the market, and usually does so in a way the wider world quickly forgets another brand did it first. If foldable smartphones become the norm, it wouldn’t be surprising if Apple decided to keep up with the competition and offer a foldable iPhone.
Pros and cons of foldable displays Flexible OLED panels let gadget makers squeeze much larger screens into smaller devices – either letting you carry a larger screen around more easily (see every book-style foldable on sale right now), or shrinking the device down without entirely compromising on screen space (the modern take on the flip phone).
Durability and price are the biggest concerns right now, though both are improving with each new generation of panel. It has to withstand lots of repetitive flexing, and the hinge makes it very tricky to achieve the same water and dust resistance ratings as a traditional phone. The added complexity of manufacturing makes costs much higher than a regular flat OLED panel, too.
There’s also the matter of the crease. Every foldable phone we’ve tried has some form of crease; it’s more visible on some than others, but it’s always there. Whether Apple considers this acceptable, or if it wants to engineer a folding screen without a visible crease appears to be the biggest cork in the iPhone Fold bottle.
What do we want to see in an iPhone Fold?
The iPhone Fold’s most significant selling point would undoubtedly be its unique design, setting it apart from all previous iPhone models. However, attention would quickly shift beyond the design to how iOS operates on this new device.
To make the most of the larger display, it would be best for Apple to have a future version of iPadOS available when the phone is fully opened. When unfolded, the phone should look like any other iPhone. After all, iOS is one of the significant reasons why iPhones are so popular.
The bottom line: Apple needs to provide more than just the ability to fold to make it a worthwhile purchase.
Looking for an iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13 comparison? We’ve got you covered
iPhone 14 Apple’s basic 2022 iPhone adds new camera abilities and tunes up the existing chipset, but is overall a small leap forward from the iPhone 13. It’s certainly worth looking at if you’re using an older iPhone model, but the iPhone 14 will leave you disappointed as an upgrade from its predecessor.
iPhone 13 Apple introduced a smaller Face ID notch, Cinematic video mode, and improved the iPhone’s power and display quality. But it still lacks a lot of premium features that similarly priced Android phones have like a fast display refresh rate or a telephoto camera.
Going for an iPhone 14 or iPhone 13 may still make sense in 2024, even now they’re both a few years out of date. Even if they’re not the shiniest and latest models, they’re both still competent phones that could serve you well.
The iPhone 14 is a lot like the iPhone 13, but with a few interesting extras. The addition of a larger main camera, Emergency SOS via satellite and Crash Detection are appealing, but the iPhone 13, as the older and therefore cheaper model, may be a better value proposition for most users.
You may want to check out the newer iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models before making a buying decision, as these models add more features and power if you’re willing to pay the extra. But if you’re certain the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 are your two finalists, let us take you through their key differences and similarities.
iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13: Cheat sheet
Design:The design of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 is nearly the same, though the iPhone 14 has no SIM card tray.
Price: Apple no longer stocks the iPhone 13 though, while still selling new iPhone 14s as a budget option.
Performance:Both the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 use the A15 Bionic chipset, but the newer model has a 5-core GPU. The iPhone 13 has a quad-core GPU.
Cameras:The iPhone 14 has 12MP main and ultrawide cameras, just like the iPhone 13, but Apple introduced the new Photonic Engine in the 14 series. This elevates lighting in photos to brighten images, especially in low light.
Video:The iPhone 14 sports Action mode, which is video stabilization on steroids. It’s ideal for situations where the subject or videographer are in constant motion.
Battery life:Battery life on the iPhone 14 got worse, however, down to 9 hours, 28 minutes in our testing from the iPhone 13’s 10 hours, 33 minutes. The iPhone 14 Plus fared much better at 11 hours, 57 minutes.
The iPhone 14 looks very similar to the iPhone 13. Both are made of glass and aluminum with glossy backs. Both come with notched displays too, with only the iPhone 14 Pro models getting a Dynamic Island to replace the cutout. At least the iPhone 14 has kept the iPhone 13’s shrunken notch design for a slightly less obtrusive experience.
The iPhone 14 has a Ceramic Shield on the front glass for added durability, just like the previous model. Based on drop tests involving the iPhone 14 Plus, though, it sounds like the new models are still prone to damage from drops, so you’ll want to get one of the best iPhone 14 cases or the best iPhone 14 Plus cases, just as the best iPhone 13 cases helped prevent damage to Apple’s older phones. The iPhone 13 changed the rear camera module layout from vertically stacked lenses to diagonally arranged ones on the back. iPhone 14 sticks with that approach.
The iPhone 14 comes in six colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Red, plus more recently a new Yellow version. The iPhone 13 colors include Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, Green and Red.
Apple has done away with the physical SIM tray on U.S. iPhone 14 models, which means that the iPhone 14 is an eSIM-only phone. So if you want a SIM card tray, the iPhone 13 might be a better choice for you.
iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13: Display
The iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 have practically identical 6.1-inch OLED displays, but our testing showed that the iPhone 14 does better on color gamut coverage, and slightly better with color accuracy. Oddly the iPhone 13 is the brighter of the two phones, at least when going by the highest results we found in the lab.
iPhone 14
iPhone 13
Peak brightness (nits)
756
797
DCI-P3 color gamut coverage (%)
83.1
78.1
Color accuracy (delta-e, lower is better)
0.25
0.26
The iPhone 14 lineup also gives you the option of going bigger if you want with the iPhone 14 Plus, which gives you more real estate with 6.7 inches, the same size as the iPhone 14 Pro Max. This panel fits more content on screen at once and is more immersive for watching videos.
However, if you prefer smaller phones, the iPhone 13 mini is still a good option with its tiny 5.4-inch display, although Apple no longer sells that model itself. Something that compact may not be ideal for gaming or for long bouts of reading, but most people can easily use the mini with one hand.
We keep wishing Apple would go higher with the refresh rate for its basic iPhones, but both the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 use 60Hz. That doesn’t compare well to equivalent Android phones, but if you only care about iPhones, then there’s no difference here.
iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13: Cameras
Some of the biggest upgrades included with the iPhone 14 involve its cameras. Like its predecessor, the new iPhone 14 models feature a pair of rear 12MP cameras — one a main lens, the other an ultrawide shooter. But this time, the iPhone 14’s main sensor is much larger with bigger pixels (1.9 microns), and with a faster f/1.5 aperture and sensor-shift image stabilization.
All of this adds up to better photos and video, delivering better detail and less noise. Night mode is also improved with the exposure now twice as fast. The Photonic Engine feature helps improve low-light performance across all of the cameras. Indeed, all those changes helped the iPhone 14 land on our list of the best camera phones.
The front camera on the iPhone 14 has also changed. This new TrueDepth camera has an ƒ/1.9 aperture that is supposed to help in low light. In contrast, the iPhone 13 makes do with an f/2.2 aperture. And you get autofocus for the first time on a front iPhone camera with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus.
In terms of video, Apple has introduced a new Action mode that is designed to add better stabilization to videos taken on the go on the iPhone 14. The feature is extremely impressive.
To see how different the cameras are, we conducted an iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13 camera face-off. Whatever differences exist in the quality of photos is pretty slight, with a few exceptions.
iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13: Performance
A new iPhone normally means new chipsets, but for the first time in the iPhone’s history, this is not the case for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus. Apple has stuck with the high-end A15 bionic that powered last year’s iPhone lineup, though it’s not the exact same silicon that the iPhone 13 used.
Instead, the A15 Bionic powering the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus is the same chip found in the iPhone 13 Pro. That means a 5-core GPU for boosted gaming performance compared to the iPhone 13 and its 4-core GPU.
Our iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13 benchmarks show what that means for the new phones. The bottom line? You’ll see a slight performance boost if you opt for the iPhone 14 over the iPhone 13, even if the older phone somehow completed our video transcoding test faster than the newer one.
iPhone 14
iPhone 13
Geekbench 5 (single-core / multi-core)
1727 / 4553
1668 / 4436
3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited (score / fps)
2583 / 15.47
2189 / 13.10
Adobe Premiere Rush time to transcode (mins:secs)
0:28
0:25
iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13: Battery life and charging
The iPhone 14 is rated for up to 20 hours of video playback, 16 hours of streamed video and 80 hours of audio. The iPhone 13 is rated for 19 hours, 15 hours and 75 hours, which means a boost to battery life — at least on paper.
Sadly, in our battery testing, where we have a phone surf the web continuously over cellular until it runs out of power, the iPhone 14 fared worse than its predecessor. While the iPhone 13 approached 10.5 hours when we tested that phone, the iPhone 14 could only manage 9 hours and 28 minutes — about half-an-hour behind the average for smartphones.
If you want a long-lasting phone, opt for the iPhone 14 Plus and its bigger battery. That 6.7-inch device held out for 11 hours and 57 minutes.
All of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 models charge at a rather measly 20W. That’s much slower than most of the Android competition. For example, the iPhone 14 took about half an hour to get back just half of its battery (54%). The iPhone 14 Plus? 46% in 30 minutes. The iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini aren’t much different at 51% and 58% in 30 minutes, respectively.
iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13: Bottom line
The iPhone 14 brings some big upgrades like SOS Emergency satellite connectivity, Crash Detection and improvements in low light photography. Even with those improvements, though, you’ll still find many similarities to the iPhone 13. This includes the A15 Bionic chip, the display (with the exception of the larger iPhone 14 Plus model) and the overall design.
We like the iPhone 14 a lot, even though the iPhone 15 is now here. Upgrading to the iPhone 14 from an older phone, you’ll notice some big improvements, but anyone reading this guide who already owns an iPhone 13 is advised to stay put. The changes aren’t that large.
The question instead is: If you’ve got an eye on your budget, would the iPhone 13 be a better choice? Certainly, you’ll give up some performance and camera gains that the iPhone 14 would deliver, and those Emergency SOS via satellite and Crash Detection features aren’t coming to Apple’s older phones.
So, yes, the new iPhone 14 is an excellent flagship, but the discounted iPhone 13 is still a great value buy.
