Apple iPhone 16 Plus (128 GB): Features, Reviews, and Offers

The Apple iPhone 16 Plus (128 GB) is an impressive smartphone that continues Apple’s tradition of delivering high-quality devices with stunning displays, enhanced performance, and innovative features. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key aspects of this phone, including its features, performance, reviews, and ongoing offers.

1. Key Features

• Display: The iPhone 16 Plus boasts a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2796 x 1290 pixels, offering sharp visuals and excellent color reproduction. It’s perfect for watching videos, gaming, and browsing, though it sticks to a 60Hz refresh rate, which is lower than the 120Hz ProMotion found in the Pro models.
• Design: The design of the iPhone 16 Plus is sleek, featuring aerospace-grade aluminum and Ceramic Shield glass that is twice as tough as previous models. It is also water and dust-resistant (IP68), making it durable for everyday use. The phone comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including Ultramarine, Pink, Black, Teal, and White.
• Camera System: The device features a dual-camera setup with 48 MP and 12 MP lenses. The vertical alignment of the cameras enables Spatial Photos and Videos, designed for playback on Apple Vision Pro. It captures stunning images in low light and daylight settings, and the Dynamic Island technology integrates the front-facing camera for selfies and Face ID.
• Performance: The A18 Bionic chip powers the iPhone 16 Plus, which has 30% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU performance than its predecessor. This ensures smooth multitasking, gaming, and heavy app usage. The inclusion of the Action Button allows for quick access to key functions, such as the camera, flashlight, and even custom shortcuts.
• Battery Life: With a larger battery and energy-efficient chip, the iPhone 16 Plus provides up to 27 hours of video playback—a notable improvement over previous models. Additionally, it supports MagSafe charging and fast charging, capable of reaching 50% charge in just 30 minutes using a 30W adapter.
• Software: The iPhone 16 Plus runs iOS 18, which includes several new features such as Math Notes, Apple Intelligence, and enhanced Dynamic Island integrations. Users can expect seamless updates, new apps, and advanced functionalities over time as Apple releases software enhancements.

2. Performance & User Experience

• Gaming & Entertainment: The iPhone 16 Plus handles intensive tasks like gaming and video streaming with ease, thanks to the robust A18 Bionic chip. While it doesn’t have the 120Hz ProMotion display of the Pro models, users report that the visual experience, color accuracy, and contrast are exceptional for most activities. For those who enjoy gaming on the go or consuming media, the iPhone 16 Plus provides excellent responsiveness and screen quality.
• Camera Quality: Users have praised the camera’s ability to capture high-quality photos with vibrant colors, good contrast, and impressive low-light performance. The addition of Spatial Video adds a new dimension to content creation, allowing users to make 3D-like videos for Apple Vision Pro playback, making it a future-proof feature.
• Battery Life: Reviews highlight the iPhone 16 Plus’ excellent battery life. With up to 27 hours of video playback, users can comfortably go through an entire day of heavy usage, including video calls, social media browsing, and gaming, without the need to recharge.

3. Design and Build Quality of the iPhone 16 Plus

The Apple iPhone 16 Plus continues Apple’s tradition of combining elegance with durability. Here’s an in-depth look at its design and build quality:

1. Materials and Durability

• The iPhone 16 Plus features an aerospace-grade aluminum frame paired with Ceramic Shield glass on both the front and back, making it twice as tough as traditional smartphone glass. This enhances the phone’s ability to withstand drops and everyday wear and tear. According to Apple, the Ceramic Shield is the most durable smartphone glass in the market​(TechRadar)​(Apple).
• It is IP68-rated, meaning it is water-resistant in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes, as well as dust-resistant, making it ideal for daily use in various environments​(Apple).

2. Ergonomics and Feel

• With its 6.7-inch display, the iPhone 16 Plus is undeniably a large device, but it remains comfortable to handle due to its carefully balanced weight. At 199 grams, it is slightly lighter than the iPhone 15 Plus, ensuring it doesn’t feel overly bulky despite its size​(TechRadar).
• The phone’s curved edges, combined with its premium materials, make it feel solid and premium in hand, and users have commented on how it balances size and comfort effectively for a large-screen device​(TechRadar).

3. Color Options

• Apple has expanded its color palette with the iPhone 16 Plus, offering five vibrant finishes: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black. The colors are infused directly into the glass, giving the phone a premium, glossy appearance without sacrificing durability. Users and reviewers have praised these new shades for their vibrancy and unique look​(TechRadar)​(AT&T).

4. Camera Layout and Aesthetic Changes

• One noticeable design change in the iPhone 16 Plus is its camera bump. Instead of the square bump seen in previous models, the 16 Plus arranges its dual cameras vertically, reminiscent of older iPhone models like the iPhone X. This layout not only provides a sleek look but also supports new features like Spatial Photos and Spatial Videos​

5. Action Button

• The Action Button is another significant addition, replacing the traditional mute switch. This button can be customized for various quick actions such as launching the camera, turning on the flashlight, or activating custom shortcuts. This new button adds functionality while maintaining a minimalist design​(Apple).

6. Heat Dissipation and Internal Design

• The internal design has been improved for better heat dissipation, making the device more efficient during prolonged usage or intensive tasks such as gaming or 4K video recording. This contributes to overall performance and longevity, keeping the phone cooler during heavy use​(Apple).

4. Software and Updates

iOS 18, Apple’s most recent mobile operating system, powers the iPhone 16 Plus and adds a number of new features, performance enhancements, and user interface refinements. Here’s a detailed look at the software and updates:

1. iOS 18 Overview

• The iPhone 16 Plus comes pre-installed with iOS 18, which focuses on enhancing user experience through subtle yet powerful improvements. While iOS 18 doesn’t overhaul the design drastically, it brings incremental updates that make a significant difference in usability, performance, and functionality.

2. Dynamic Island Expansion

• The Dynamic Island feature, which was first introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro models, has been further integrated into the iPhone 16 Plus. The pill-shaped notch at the top of the screen now offers even more functionality, including real-time updates for apps like Uber, Lyft, and airline apps, allowing users to see ride statuses or flight information at a glance. More apps are expected to adopt Dynamic Island in future updates, expanding its utility across more third-party applications.

3. Apple Intelligence and AI Features

• A significant highlight of iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, an AI-powered feature that enhances productivity and user experience. The Apple Intelligence suite includes tools such as Memory Creation, which helps users curate and organize their photos and videos into themed albums automatically. These albums use AI to identify faces, locations, and events, making it easier for users to look back on specific memories.
• AI is also used for real-time image enhancement, especially in the Photos app, where it can adjust lighting, contrast, and sharpness automatically. Apple continues to integrate machine learning into its camera and photo software, optimizing photo quality in low-light environments and other challenging conditions.

4. Math Notes

• A new feature introduced in iOS 18 is Math Notes, integrated into the Notes and Calculator apps. Math Notes allows users to perform calculations directly within their notes, and it can solve complex math problems, making it particularly useful for students and professionals who work with numbers frequently. This feature adds an extra layer of functionality, blending note-taking with real-time problem-solving.

5. Enhanced Privacy and Security Features

• iOS 18 continues Apple’s focus on privacy and security. New updates include Privacy Relay, which helps protect users’ browsing activities by routing their internet traffic through two separate servers to mask IP addresses and location data. This feature adds another layer of privacy when using Safari or other apps.
• There are also improvements to Face ID and Apple Pay, enhancing security when making transactions or unlocking the device. The iPhone 16 Plus keeps your data secure with on-device encryption and no-compromise security features.

6. Action Button Customization

• The Action Button on the iPhone 16 Plus, which replaces the traditional mute switch, can be customized through iOS 18 to perform various tasks. Users can set it to trigger specific functions like turning on Silent Mode, activating the Camera, opening the Flashlight, or even running Shortcuts. This makes it a highly functional and personalized hardware feature that integrates seamlessly with the iOS software ecosystem.

7. Software Updates and Longevity

• Apple is well known for providing long-term software support for its devices. With the iPhone 16 Plus, users can expect to receive iOS updates for several years, ensuring that the phone stays secure, up-to-date, and capable of running the latest features. Typically, Apple provides iOS updates to its devices for at least five years, which means the iPhone 16 Plus will likely receive future iOS versions through 2029 or beyond.
• These updates will include not only new features but also performance optimizations and security patches. Regular iOS updates will ensure that the iPhone 16 Plus remains fast and secure even as newer models are released.

8. Smoother App Experience

• With iOS 18, users will also notice improved app optimization. Apps open faster, transitions are smoother, and animations feel more responsive. The A18 Bionic chip, combined with the software improvements in iOS 18, delivers a fluid experience across various tasks, from gaming to multitasking. Apple’s integration of hardware and software ensures that apps take full advantage of the processing power available on the iPhone 16 Plus.

9. iOS Widgets and Lock Screen

• iOS 18 further expands on the use of widgets and customizable lock screens. Users can now add more interactive widgets directly to the home screen and lock screen, making it easier to interact with apps like Calendar, Music, and Weather without needing to open them. The lock screen widgets also allow for quick access to essential information like fitness data, upcoming events, or battery status.

10. Health and Fitness Integration

• iOS 18 continues to enhance Apple’s Health and Fitness apps. Users can track workouts, monitor sleep patterns, and receive health insights directly through their iPhone. The integration of the iPhone 16 Plus with the Apple Watch also allows for seamless health monitoring, with real-time syncing of fitness data, notifications, and health alerts.

 

5. Pricing and Offers

• The iPhone 16 Plus (128 GB) starts at around $899, though pricing may vary depending on the region and the retailer. Trade-in options can significantly reduce the cost, with some carriers offering as much as $800 in credits for eligible trade-ins.
• Various telecom providers, such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, offer promotional deals, including monthly installment plans starting from $0 per month with eligible trade-ins and specific contracts.
• Apple also provides financing options through its Apple Card, allowing users to purchase the device with interest-free monthly payments. Additionally, customers can enjoy discounts when bundling with other Apple services or purchasing through corporate programs.

6. User Reviews and Opinions

Users and tech reviewers generally view the iPhone 16 Plus positively, especially highlighting its large display, long battery life, and camera quality. However, some critics note that it lacks certain premium features, such as the 120Hz refresh rate found in the Pro models. For most consumers, the absence of these Pro-level features doesn’t significantly detract from the overall experience, especially given the iPhone 16 Plus’ performance and value.

• Pros:
  • Excellent battery life
  • Impressive performance with the A18 Bionic chip
  • Durable design with improved drop protection
  • High-quality camera system
  • Attractive color options
• Cons:
  • 60Hz display instead of the ProMotion 120Hz
  • No always-on display feature
  • Higher price compared to competitors with similar specs

7. Final Verdict

The Apple iPhone 16 Plus (128 GB) is an ideal choice for users seeking a large-screen iPhone with powerful performance and long-lasting battery life. Its camera system, design, and display quality are top-notch, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual smartphone users to mobile photographers and gamers. Although it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, most users won’t notice the difference in daily usage.

Overall, the iPhone 16 Plus strikes a balance between premium features and affordability, offering a flagship-like experience at a relatively reasonable price for an Apple device.