Apple iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 2025: Comprehensive Comparison Guide Apple has recently launched the iPhone 16 in India, a significant update from the previous model, the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 brings in a host of improvements, including a more powerful A18 chip, enhanced cameras, and a fresh design. In contrast, the iPhone 15, while still a great device, seems to be quickly overshadowed. In this article, we compare the two devices in detail, covering everything from design to price.
iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 2025 Quick Info Comparison:
|
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
iPhone 15 |
|
Chipset |
A18 Bionic Chip (3nm, Gen2) |
A17 Bionic Chip (3nm) |
|
RAM |
8GB |
6GB |
|
Storage Options |
128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
|
Display |
6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz, 1600nits, 2000nits peak) |
6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz, 1600nits, 2000nits peak) |
|
Rear Cameras |
48MP wide (f/1.6), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) with macro |
48MP wide (f/1.6), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) with macro |
|
Front Camera |
12MP |
12MP |
|
Battery Life |
Up to 2 hours longer than iPhone 15 |
Similar to iPhone 15 |
|
Operating System |
iOS 18 with Apple Intelligence |
iOS 18 (Apple Intelligence update later) |
|
Build and Design |
Glass back, aluminum frame, new color options |
Glass back, aluminum frame, muted color options |
|
Price |
Rs 79,900 (128GB) |
Rs 69,900 (128GB) (price cut) |
|
Additional Features |
Apple Intelligence, Camera Control button, Action button |
None (doesn’t support Apple Intelligence) |
Key Design Differences 2025: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15
Apple has given the iPhone 16 a fresh new look, moving away from the muted colors of the iPhone 15. The new device comes in vibrant colors such as ultramarine, teal, pink, white, and black, providing users with more options. One of the most notable design changes is the vertical alignment of the rear cameras, as opposed to the zigzag arrangement seen on the iPhone 15.
The iPhone 16 also introduces two new buttons. The mute switch is replaced by the customizable Action button, which allows users to assign shortcuts for various tasks, such as opening apps or turning on the flashlight. A completely new feature is the Camera control button. This capacitive button serves as a shutter button but also offers more functionality, such as swiping between photos.
Build Quality 2025: A Closer Look at Materials and Durability
Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 feature a glass back and an aluminum frame, providing a premium feel. The physical dimensions of both phones are largely the same, with the iPhone 16 being just 1 gram lighter. Both phones are IP68 certified, meaning they are dust and water-resistant.
Display: Same Size, Similar Technology
The iPhone 16 features the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display as the iPhone 15, with a resolution of 2556×1179 pixels. Both phones support HDR with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making them excellent for outdoor visibility. However, the iPhone 16 can go as low as 1 nit of brightness, which could be a welcome feature for users who prefer a dimmer screen in dark environments.
Performance: A Major Upgrade with the A18 Chip
The iPhone 16 is powered by the new A18 chip, which is built using a 3nm process and comes with a 16-core Neural Engine and a 5-core GPU. The improved performance and cooling are notable upgrades from the A17 Bionic chip used in the iPhone 15. The new chip supports Apple Intelligence, Apple’s cutting-edge technology that the iPhone 15 lacks.
Memory and Storage: More RAM and Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 16 comes with 8GB of RAM by default, providing better multitasking performance and supporting Apple Intelligence. The storage options remain the same at 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 comes with 6GB of RAM and does not support Apple Intelligence.
Camera Features: Upgraded Capabilities on the iPhone 16
One of the most significant upgrades on the iPhone 16 is the camera system. The main camera is a 48-megapixel f/1.6 wide sensor, paired with a 12-megapixel f/2.2 ultrawide sensor. The camera system introduces Spatial photos and videos that can be viewed in 3D on the Vision Pro headset. Additionally, the iPhone 16 features a new anti-reflective coating on the fusion lens to reduce flare, making it ideal for better photos in various lighting conditions.
Another exciting feature is the new audio mix, which allows users to record videos with cinematic-style audio, providing a more immersive experience. The front camera remains the same as the iPhone 15, offering a 12-megapixel sensor for selfies and video calls.
Apple iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 Battery Life: A Notable Improvement
Apple claims that the iPhone 16 offers up to 2 hours more battery life on continuous playback compared to the iPhone 15. While the exact capacity of the battery in the iPhone 16 is yet to be determined, it’s clear that the device offers improved efficiency. Charging speeds appear to remain the same across both models.
Apple iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 Pricing: A Shift in Affordability
The iPhone 16 is available at three storage variants:
- 128GB for Rs 79,900
- 256GB for Rs 89,900
- 512GB for Rs 1,09,900
The iPhone 16 comes in a choice of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB at a price of Rs 79,900, Rs 89,900, and Rs 1,09,900. The iPhone 15 has received a price cut after the launch of the iPhone 16. The iPhone 15 128GB variant which was previously selling for Rs 79,600 is now available for Rs 69,900 (down Rs 9,700). The 256GB and 512GB models have also received a price cut and are now selling for Rs 79,900 and Rs 99,900 down Rs 9,700 from their earlier prices of Rs 89,600, Rs 1,09,600 respectively.
Apple iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 2025 Price Details
Here’s the price comparison table for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 based on storage variants:
|
Model |
Storage |
Price Before |
Price After |
Price Difference |
|
iPhone 16 |
128GB |
N/A |
Rs 79,900 |
N/A |
|
iPhone 16 |
256GB |
N/A |
Rs 89,900 |
N/A |
|
iPhone 16 |
512GB |
N/A |
Rs 1,09,900 |
N/A |
|
iPhone 15 |
128GB |
Rs 79,600 |
Rs 69,900 |
Rs 9,700 |
|
iPhone 15 |
256GB |
Rs 89,600 |
Rs 79,900 |
Rs 9,700 |
|
iPhone 15 |
512GB |
Rs 1,09,600 |
Rs 99,900 |
Rs 9,700 |
This table compares the pricing of both iPhone models, including the price cuts for the iPhone 15 after the launch of the iPhone 16.
Conclusion: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
While the iPhone 15 remains a solid choice, the iPhone 16 clearly offers more advanced features that are geared toward future-proofing your device. The new A18 chip, Apple Intelligence support, improved cameras, and design upgrades make the iPhone 16 a more compelling choice, especially for users who want the latest and greatest from Apple. However, with the price cut on the iPhone 15, it might still be an appealing option for those on a budget.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs. If you can live without the latest features like Apple Intelligence and the new camera advancements, the iPhone 15 offers great value at a reduced price. If you’re someone who wants the newest technology and enhanced performance, the iPhone 16 is worth the investment.