Apple launched the iPhone 16 in India in September 2024 at Rs 79,900 for 128 GB. It was built around Apple Intelligence, with the new A18 chip and 8 GB of RAM, although the AI features arrived later through software updates. It also gained the Action button from the 15 Pro and a new Camera Control button on the right edge.
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED is bright and sharp but remains at 60Hz, still the biggest gap against Android rivals like the Galaxy S24 and Pixel 9. The vertically stacked camera layout enables spatial video recording for Apple Vision Pro. The A18 is fast and efficient, comfortably handling demanding games, and the phone weighs a manageable 170 g.
Cameras are a 48 MP Fusion main sensor with 2x crop and a 12 MP ultrawide that now supports macro photography. Camera Control lets you launch the camera and adjust exposure or zoom with a press and swipe, though many users took time to adapt to it. Battery life improves over the iPhone 15, and MagSafe charging gets faster with newer chargers. Local assembly helped availability in India.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 79,900 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | September 2024 |
| Segment | Flagship |
| Display | 6.1-inch, Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz, 1179 x 2556 |
| Processor | Apple A18 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 48 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 12 MP with autofocus |
| Battery | 3561 mAh |
| Software at launch | iOS 18 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Weight | 170 g |
| Colours | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine |
What we like
- Fast A18 chip with 8 GB RAM
- Action button and Camera Control
- Macro mode on the ultrawide
- Better battery life than the iPhone 15
What could be better
- Still 60Hz
- Apple Intelligence arrived late
- No telephoto
Who should buy it
iPhone buyers who want the new Apple Intelligence-ready hardware at the standard price.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (September 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.