Updated October 2026.
The iPhone 16 Pro remains a capable compact Pro model, even though Apple has moved on to newer generations. It introduced a larger 6.3 inch display, the A18 Pro chip, Camera Control and a 5x telephoto camera in the smaller Pro body. This refreshed review corrects the original specifications and explains where the phone still makes sense.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Review: Key Details
- Introduced: September 2024
- Display: 6.3 inch Super Retina XDR OLED with ProMotion up to 120Hz
- Chip: A18 Pro
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- Finishes: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium and Desert Titanium
- Original UAE launch price: From AED 4,299
- Current availability: Mainly retailers, refurbished sellers and the used market
Apple no longer lists the iPhone 16 Pro among its current UAE retail models. Stock and pricing therefore vary. Compare the device condition, battery health and warranty rather than relying only on the headline price.
Design and Display
The titanium frame and textured matte glass give the phone a restrained Pro appearance. At 199 grams, it feels substantial without reaching Pro Max proportions. The 6.3 inch display is larger than the 6.1 inch panel on the iPhone 15 Pro.
ProMotion remains one of the clearest reasons to choose a Pro iPhone. Scrolling looks smooth, while the Always On display keeps useful information visible. Apple rates outdoor brightness at up to 2,000 nits. The phone also carries an IP68 water and dust resistance rating under controlled test conditions.
Performance and Everyday Use
The A18 Pro has a six core CPU, six core GPU and 16 core Neural Engine. It still provides ample performance for demanding apps, games and photo editing. The original review highlighted fast, smooth operation, and that remains the central strength of the device.
Apple Intelligence support is included, but feature availability depends on language, region and software version. Buyers should also allow room for apps, photos and offline media. The 128GB model can feel tight for frequent video recording.
Cameras and Video
The rear system combines a 48MP Fusion camera, a 48MP Ultra Wide camera and a 12MP 5x telephoto camera. The 5x lens was a meaningful upgrade for the smaller Pro model. Independent testing also praised the reach, although low light results from a telephoto lens can vary.
The original article incorrectly mentioned 8K recording. The iPhone 16 Pro records up to 4K Dolby Vision at 120 frames per second. Camera Control offers quick access to capture and settings, but it takes practice to use comfortably.
For photographers, ProRAW preserves more editing latitude. ProRes and Apple Log are useful for video creators. These formats also consume storage quickly, so higher capacity models or external storage workflows make more sense for regular production.
Battery, Charging and Accessories
Battery life depends heavily on brightness, signal strength, camera use and background activity. It should cover a normal day for many users, but condition matters on an older unit. Check the Battery Health page before buying used.
The phone supports MagSafe and Qi2 accessories. A case, charger and power adapter may add to the total cost. Existing USB C accessories can reduce that expense.
iPhone 16 Pro Unboxing Video
The original short video shows the unboxing and first look at the device:
What to Check Before Buying
- Confirm battery health and whether the battery has been replaced.
- Test Face ID, Camera Control, speakers, microphones and every camera.
- Check the display and frame for damage.
- Confirm the storage capacity before comparing prices.
- Verify that Activation Lock has been removed on a used phone.
- Compare it with the newer iPhone range and any remaining warranty.
Readers considering the wider Apple ecosystem may also find the Apple Watch Series 10 review and MacBook Pro with M4 review useful. For another wearable comparison, see the WHOOP versus Hume Band review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the iPhone 16 Pro have a 6.7 inch screen?
No. The iPhone 16 Pro has a 6.3 inch display. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has the larger 6.9 inch display.
Can the iPhone 16 Pro record 8K video?
No. Its headline video mode is up to 4K Dolby Vision at 120 frames per second.
Is the iPhone 16 Pro still worth buying?
It can offer good value at the right price. Condition, battery health and warranty are more important now than the original launch specification alone.
The Brief Review Verdict
The iPhone 16 Pro brought the smaller Pro model closer to the Pro Max. Its 5x telephoto camera, bright ProMotion display and A18 Pro performance still hold up well. It is no longer the latest option, so value depends on the price and condition. A carefully checked refurbished or used example can still be a strong buy.
Technical specifications are available on Apple Support.