Apple’s recent “It’s Glowtime,” event introduced exciting updates to the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch Series 10, but it was the camera features that stole the spotlight for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models. Both Pro devices now share identical camera systems, packing powerful new hardware and software to enhance photo and video quality, making these models must-haves for content creators and photography enthusiasts.
Camera Control
One of the most significant innovations is Camera Control, offering professional-level precision right from your iPhone. Apple has introduced a new touch-sensitive shutter button that allows users to leverage a half-press feature to lock focus and exposure. This update mirrors traditional camera techniques, ensuring pinpoint accuracy by focusing on the subject before reframing, preventing common autofocus errors.
The double half-press action further simplifies zooming and settings control. With a swipe of your finger, users can zoom, adjust aperture, tweak exposure compensation, and even select photo styles—all without leaving the shutter button. This intuitive design makes on-the-go adjustments effortless, especially for videographers looking for smooth transitions and high-quality zoom control.
Color filters and color grading options are easily accessible through this interface, allowing users to preview different filters while taking a shot. This makes it easier than ever to capture photos with your preferred aesthetic, saving time on post-processing. Whether you’re aiming for a vibrant, high-contrast look or a more muted, cinematic tone, the iPhone 16 Pro models give you full control over the color palette.
48MP Fusion mode
In a move that democratizes high-quality smartphone photography, Apple has extended its 48MP Fusion Mode across the entire iPhone 16 lineup. The feature allows users to shoot with 48MP resolution and enjoy an effective 2x zoom by cropping the 1x image while retaining superb detail, thanks to its multi-frame processing. This upgrade is a significant step forward, especially for users of the standard and Plus models who previously didn’t have access to such advanced imaging technology.
The Pro models take things up a notch with a new 48MP Ultra Wide lens. Not only does this provide wider field-of-view shots, but it also improves macro photography, making close-up shots sharper and more detailed. While the Ultra Wide lens maintains an f/2.2 aperture, the new sensor is poised to enhance low-light performance, making it ideal for everything from landscapes to extreme close-ups.
Dolby Vision 4K at 120fps
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max support Dolby Vision 4K video recording at 120fps, adding a cinematic flair to slow-motion footage. Whether capturing fast-paced action or looking to slow down everyday moments, this feature will allow users to manipulate frame rates post-shoot, offering unprecedented flexibility in playback options from 24fps all the way to 120fps.
Spatial images and videos
Apple has made spatial photos and videos a standard across all iPhone 16 models, allowing users to capture immersive content designed for viewing on devices like the Apple Vision Pro and the more affordable Viture One XR glasses. Spatial images preserve depth and perspective, making important memories—like weddings or family moments—future-proof. As the popularity of VR and AR grows, this feature sets the iPhone 16 Pro apart, offering users the ability to relive moments in an entirely new dimension.
Audio Mixing
The iPhone 16 Pro lineup also introduces a new Audio Mix feature, allowing users to isolate foreground voices or mix audio layers to suit the environment. This tool is perfect for vloggers and filmmakers who need control over sound dynamics in busy settings. Whether it’s isolating a speech in a noisy crowd or mixing in ambient background sounds, this feature pushes the iPhone further into professional-grade audio territory.
Pricing and availability
Apple has priced the iPhone 16 Pro at $999 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1,199. Pre-orders begin on September 13, with full availability starting on September 20.
