Overview
The speaker discusses their personal experience using the iPhone 16 Pro as their main phone for 90 days, highlighting key reasons for its continued use and some minor drawbacks compared to larger iPhone models.
Comfort and Daily Use
- The iPhone 16 Pro offers a more comfortable, one-handed experience compared to larger models.
- Its size strikes a balance between being noticeable in the pocket and not feeling bulky.
- The phone remains manageable during usage in bed or on the go, reducing the risk of discomfort.
- While slightly wider than the 15 Pro, it provides improved battery and thermals.
Battery Life and Usage Patterns
- The 16 Pro lasts nearly all day, though not as long as the Pro Max, but usage time per day is lower.
- Less screen time reduces distractions compared to "Max" models.
- Heavy tasks like gaming or GPS still drain the battery quickly, similar to other phones.
Performance
- The device handles all games and apps smoothly, with better sustained performance than previous generations.
- Slightly less snappy than top Android competitors but remains exceptionally smooth on iOS 18.5.
- Regular, reliable software updates continue to enhance performance.
Camera Reliability and Results
- Produces high-quality photos with accurate colors and strong dynamic range.
- Offers comparable zoom and features to the Pro Max, supporting pro-level photography and 4K60 video.
- Easy usability with physical camera controls, though occasional glitches present.
Display Quality
- The OLED panel delivers sharp text, balanced colors, and sufficient brightness.
- The dynamic island is seen as intrusive and not preferred by the speaker.
- Display size is adequate for quick media consumption and reading.
Hardware and Ecosystem Integration
- Seamless integration with Apple Watch, AirPods, iPad, and Mac enhances daily use.
- The device feels more portable and cohesive with other Apple products compared to larger iPhones.
Build Quality and Durability
- Good build quality, though prone to visible marks and scratches if dropped.
- Speaker and microphone quality are strong, comparable to leading competitors.
Likes and Dislikes
- Prefers the comfortable size and balanced feature set over larger models.
- Dislikes dynamic island and wishes for a lighter, thinner design in future iPhones.
- Finds camera button occasionally glitchy but otherwise sees few major faults.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Seeks opinions on preference between smaller one-handed flagship phones versus larger Max/Ultra models.