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Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Series: New Camera Button and AI Features Take Center Stage

By September 18, 2024No Comments4 min read

Apple released the new iPhone 16 series phones in the early morning of September 10, Beijing time. However, from the appearance, the iPhone 16 is not significantly different from last year’s model, except for a small button on the lower right. This button is the camera control function, which is available in all four models of iPhone 16 and looks like a slightly concave groove. Press it once to immediately call up the camera startup screen, allowing you to fine-tune the shot. Press it a second time to take a photo.

 Functions of Camera button

Apple’s design is meant to replicate the experience of using a DSLR camera shutter button. The process is simple and works best with the right hand holding the phone and the thumb pressing the button. Of course, it can also be operated with the left hand, but you may need to adjust the gesture slightly.

But beyond that, the button isn’t so simple to use. When reporters got their hands on it at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California, it took them a while to get familiar with the button’s other functions. In addition to pressing to take a photo or start recording a video, you can keep your finger on the button and gently double-tap to switch camera options. You can also adjust the zoom level by sliding your finger, or change other settings depending on the mode.

This part of the operation is not always smooth, however. Several journalists who tested the feature, as well as some Apple employees, had difficulty initiating the mode switch when they first tried it.

Apple

Other features enhancements

There are some other subtle changes to the iPhone 16. The Pro versions now have slightly larger screen sizes, at 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively. They also have the narrowest bezels of any Apple product, helping to maximize screen real estate.

Even so, many consumers may not notice the difference. The iPhone 16 Pro’s 6.3-inch screen doesn’t look noticeably larger than the previous generation’s 6.1-inch screen.

The more substantial changes to the iPhone 16 will come from software updates, most notably a set of artificial intelligence tools called “Apple Intelligence.” You’ll need to be patient, though: a beta version of the system will be released next month, long after the iPhone 16 goes on sale.

Apple is playing catch-up in the field of generative artificial intelligence, but tech peers like Google and Microsoft have made great strides in this area. Apple’s event on Monday was partly a message to consumers and Wall Street that Apple should be taken seriously in artificial intelligence.

Apple’s AI technology

However, Apple’s AI technology is still in its early stages. Apple Intelligence has been delayed several times, and many key features will not be launched until next year. Currently, the technology is mainly focused on summarizing messages and notifications, rather than matching the amazing AI features launched by competitors.

Much of Apple’s AI technology isn’t ready for production yet, which could undermine its ability to boost iPhone sales. Even when Apple Intelligence first went live in October, it was only in beta, available to consumers willing to try it out.

“This suggests that many features are still being fine-tuned for official release and are not ready for launch yet. Apple’s focus on security and privacy may be a reason for the delay in the launch of these features,” eMarketer analyst Gadjo Sevilla said in a report.

Apple

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