Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 16 series has finally arrived, but the tech giant's promised AI features are still in development. According to a review by Allison Johnson, the AI features in iOS 18.1, including writing tools and email summaries, are "pretty standard fare" and not revolutionary. Despite this, the new phones offer significant upgrades, making them worth considering for those due for an upgrade.

The iPhone 16 series includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro, each with its own set of features and upgrades. The iPhone 16, priced at $799, offers a reliable camera with versatile photographic styles, a handy new Action Button, and more RAM and a current-gen chipset. The iPhone 16 Plus, priced at $899, boasts a big screen and a big battery, making it a solid choice for those who want a larger display and longer battery life. The iPhone 16 Pro, priced at $999, gets a small but meaningful upgrade with a bump up to a 5x zoom, making it a great option for those who want the latest device with all the bells and whistles.

One of the most notable aspects of the iPhone 16 series is the slow rollout of Apple Intelligence features. According to Johnson, the AI features are "pretty standard fare" and not revolutionary, and Apple has promised more to come in 2025. This may be a disappointment for some, but for those who are due for an upgrade, the new phones still offer significant improvements over previous models.

In terms of camera performance, the iPhone 16 series offers some notable upgrades. The Camera Control feature allows for quick access to camera settings, and the new Photographic Style filters offer more customization options. However, the standard 60Hz screen on the iPhone 16 may be a drawback for some, especially compared to the smoother 120Hz display on the Pro models.

For those on a budget, the iPhone 16E, priced at $599, is a more affordable option. However, it's missing some key features, including MagSafe, an ultrawide camera, and the Dynamic Island. Despite this, it's still a reliable phone with good performance and a capable camera.

Ultimately, whether or not to upgrade to the iPhone 16 series depends on individual needs and preferences. For those who are due for an upgrade and want the latest device with all the bells and whistles, the iPhone 16 Pro is a great option. For those on a budget, the iPhone 16E may be a more affordable choice. And for those who want a larger display and longer battery life, the iPhone 16 Plus is worth considering.

In conclusion, while the iPhone 16 series may not be a revolutionary upgrade, it still offers significant improvements over previous models. With a range of options to choose from, there's something for everyone in the latest lineup from Apple.