Get ready, iPhone enthusiasts! Apple’s next-generation iPhone, the iPhone 16, is in the works, and early prototypes have been unveiled. MacRumors has obtained exclusive details about the upcoming device, shedding light on its design changes and new features. Building on the design updates introduced with the iPhone 15, the iPhone 16 will feature modifications to the buttons and camera layout. With mockups showcasing multiple color options and hardware configurations, we have a glimpse of what Apple engineers internally refer to as the “DeLorean.” From a vertical camera arrangement to a new capacitive Capture Button, the iPhone 16 promises to bring exciting updates to the table. Although the design plans have not been finalized, this article provides an exciting sneak peek into what may be in store for the highly anticipated iPhone 16.
Design Changes
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 is expected to feature some design changes that build on the updates introduced with the iPhone 15. These changes include a curved frame and a frosted glass back. These design elements give the iPhone 16 a sleek and modern look, making it visually appealing to users. Additionally, there will be modifications to the buttons and camera layout, enhancing the overall functionality and user experience of the device.
Early Pre-production Designs
In the early stages of the iPhone 16’s development, Apple has been exploring various variants and hardware configurations. These designs represent different possibilities for the final product. While it is still early in the design process, these pre-production designs provide insight into what we can expect from the iPhone 16. Internally, Apple engineers refer to the device as “DeLorean,” indicating the company’s ambition to create a cutting-edge and futuristic smartphone.
Mockups of iPhone 16
To give users a glimpse of what the iPhone 16 may look like, mockups based on Apple’s internal designs have been created. These mockups showcase the different colors that Apple is testing for the device. The yellow mockup represents the earliest known button design, featuring an Action Button and a unified volume button. The pink mockup features an Action Button and separate mechanical volume buttons, providing users with more control over their device. The midnight mockup showcases a larger Action button and a new Capture button, allowing for improved functionality. Finally, the black mockup represents the expected final design of the iPhone 16.
Camera Arrangement
One noticeable design change in the iPhone 16 is the vertical alignment of the rear cameras. This new camera arrangement makes the device easily identifiable as the latest model. While the vertical alignment remains consistent across different development stages, Apple is considering two different camera bump designs. The first design is similar to the iPhone 12, with two camera lenses stacked one above the other. The second design, reminiscent of the iPhone X, features a singular pill-shaped enclosure. Despite the different camera bump designs, the flash remains in the same location, indicating that Apple does not plan to change its position.
Unified Volume Button
One of the early prototypes of the iPhone 16 included a unified volume button. This feature was initially developed for the now-canceled Bongo project, which was intended for release with the iPhone 15 Pro. The unified volume button offered users haptic feedback, but it was scrapped due to unresolved technical issues. As a result, Apple decided to revert to mechanical buttons for the iPhone 16. This change ensures the reliability and usability of the volume buttons while maintaining a seamless user experience.
Action Button
The Action button, first introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro, will also be present in the iPhone 16. This button serves various functions, and Apple plans to standardize its inclusion across the entire iPhone 16 range. The size of the Action button may vary across different configurations, with some prototypes featuring a significantly larger button. As part of Project Atlas, Apple aimed to transform the Action button from mechanical to capacitive, providing users with a more intuitive and responsive experience. However, the final design of the Action button is yet to be determined.
New Button
In addition to the Action button, Apple is experimenting with a new button placement on the right side of the iPhone 16. This new button, known as the Capture button, has been developed under the codename Project Nova. The Capture button incorporates a force sensor and unknown “tact-switching” functionality, although the exact details of the latter are still unclear. The Capture button is located in the same spot as the mmWave cutout on US models of the iPhone, and as a result, the mmWave antenna has been relocated to the left side of the device. However, Apple has also developed an alternate hardware configuration without the Capture button, which could be used if any hardware issues arise during its development.
Front Design
The front design of the iPhone 16 is expected to be similar to its predecessor, the iPhone 15. It will continue to feature the Dynamic Island, providing users with a visually captivating display. The base model of the iPhone 16 is anticipated to have a display similar to the iPhone 15, ensuring a seamless transition for users. Additionally, the device will have a USB-C port located at the bottom, allowing for faster data transfer and charging capabilities.
Colors
Early prototypes of the iPhone 16 have been seen in yellow, pink, and midnight colors. These colors were chosen based on Apple’s internal designs and testing. Additionally, color options initially developed for the iPhone 15 have also been used for testing purposes. Apple understands the importance of offering a variety of colors to cater to different individual preferences and style choices.
Final Design and Additional Changes
It is important to note that the iPhone 16 is still in the early stages of development, and its design plans have not yet been finalized. Apple has created multiple hardware configurations, suggesting that there may be additional changes before the device’s release. As such, users can expect further updates and refinements to the design and features of the iPhone 16. Apple remains committed to delivering a premium and innovative smartphone experience to its users.
In conclusion, the iPhone 16 is poised to build on the design changes introduced with the iPhone 15, while also incorporating modifications to the buttons and camera layout. Early pre-production designs and mockups provide an exciting sneak peek into what users can expect from the iPhone 16. With a focus on functionality and aesthetics, Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartphone design, ensuring that its devices remain at the forefront of innovation. While the design process is still ongoing, users can look forward to a visually stunning and technologically advanced iPhone 16.
