In less than two months, Apple is set to unveil its latest iPhone 16 lineup and roll out its iOS 18 update to the public. This is going to be a thrilling moment, as the iPhone 16 lineup is expected to receive significant enhancements this year. Along with iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence, we’re on the cusp of a new chapter for the iPhone.
The iPhone 16 lineup is brimming with new features, including a redesigned camera for the base model iPhone 16, an upgraded telephoto camera for the iPhone 16 Pro, bigger screens with thinner bezels, the Action button across all models, and additional updates.
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The Capture button might be a revolutionary tool.
A significant update is on the way for the iPhone 16 series, with the introduction of a new feature. This feature, reminiscent of the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max from the previous year, is expected to be a new Capture button. Initially, it was thought to be a feature exclusive to the Pro models, but it seems it might be available across all iPhone models, even the entry-level ones.
The Capture button is set to be placed at the bottom-right corner of the screen. While the exact purpose of this button remains a mystery until Apple reveals it, it’s likely to be related to the camera, given its name. The idea of a button for taking photos seems logical, especially considering its location in the corner.
The inclusion of a physical button for taking photos is a significant advancement. Currently, to take a photo on an iPhone, one must use the touchscreen capture button, the volume up button, or the Action button (if the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max has the camera shortcut set up).
The issue with the current setup is that when attempting to take a selfie, it can be challenging to position my hand in a way that’s comfortable to press the touchscreen capture button. Thankfully, I have a PopSocket on my iPhone 15 Pro, which makes it easier. Yes, it’s just a minor inconvenience for someone with small hands.
Consider this: when you snap a selfie in a vertical stance, it’s common for individuals to place their phone at the base, with their fingers wrapped around it. Irrespective of whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, there’s usually a spot on the phone where the Capture button should be located. This placement could simplify taking selfies like never before.
A Capture button would also be incredibly useful for taking photos beyond selfies, especially when shooting in a landscape view. Holding it where the camera lenses are on the left side would make it feel more natural, akin to using a traditional point-and-shoot camera. I could even find it more comfortable for one-handed photography with a PopSocket, especially if I’m holding it with my right hand.
You might be wondering, “But couldn’t you achieve all this with the existing Action button?” Indeed, you could, but the Action button is positioned at the top-left corner, which might not be as convenient for landscape shots if the camera lenses are on the right.
However, another significant advantage of the Capture button is its potential to expand the functionality of the Action button. Currently, on my iPhone 15 Pro, I’ve set the Action button to launch the Camera app, but I rarely use it for actual photo or video capture due to its difficult accessibility. With the introduction of the Capture button, I could repurpose the Action button for other tasks, like activating the flashlight or creating a custom Shortcut.
This all hinges on the assumption that the Capture button will serve as the camera shutter. It’s the most logical choice, yet Apple might have different plans. It could also be designed as another customizable button, allowing users to tailor it to their needs. In my view, offering more options to the user is always a good thing.
Additional thrilling modifications are on the horizon as well.
While that particular feature is what I’m most eagerly anticipating, there are other aspects that are making the iPhone 16 an exciting upgrade overall.
Last year, I opted for the iPhone 15 Pro over the iPhone 15 Pro Max, even though the latter boasted a superior telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. My reason? My hands are smaller, so I find it difficult to manage the larger screens.
There are whispers that the iPhone 16 Pro will feature an improved telephoto camera this year, thanks to a slight increase in its size. This development is expected to be a relief for many, including myself, who prefer a phone that’s not too large but still offers top-notch features.
Additionally, there’s talk of the ultrawide lens increasing its resolution to 48 megapixels from the current 12MP. I’ve tested some Android devices with high megapixel ultrawide lenses, like the OnePlus 12, and the improved resolution significantly enhances the quality of the images. If Apple does indeed increase the resolution of its ultrawide lenses, it could result in more detailed and clearer ultrawide photos, particularly in low-light conditions.
All in all, the iPhone 16 lineup is looking promising, especially with the addition of Apple’s advanced features and the iconic Capture button. Fortunately, with less than two months left, we won’t have to wait long.