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Everything you need to know about iPhone 16: Models, specs, and eSIM compatibility
Is the iPhone 16 eSIM-only? It depends on your location. Learn which models still support SIM cards, how to activate eSIM on iPhone 16, and which plans work best for travel.
In September of 2024, Apple released the iPhone 16 series to replace the iPhone 15 line of phones. The iPhone 16 came with a new chip, better battery life, and improved cameras. The entire line is comprised of iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max phones. As with the previous model, all iPhone 16 phones sold in the US are eSIM-only, while those sold elsewhere still have a physical SIM slot.
Let’s take a closer look at the specifications of each iPhone 16 model, how they compare to other iPhones, and the main things to consider when buying one.
Say goodbye to plastic SIMs
Our eSIMs can't be damaged, broken, or lost – they're the future for every type of traveler.
iPhone 16 technical specifications
Whether it’s size, battery power, or faster computing capabilities, each phone in the iPhone 16 lineup is slightly different. Let’s take a look at how they compare.
| iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 6.1” | 6.7” | 6.3” | 6.9” |
| Battery life | Up to 22 hours of video playback | Up to 27 hours of video playback | Up to 27 hours of video playback | Up to 33 hours of video playback |
| Cameras | Rear: 48 MP main, 12 MP Ultra Wide Front: 12 MP True Depth | Rear: 48 MP main, 12 MP Ultra Wide Front: 12 MP True Depth | Rear: 48 MP main, 48 MP Ultra Wide, Telephoto Front: 12 MP True Depth | Rear: 48 MP main, 48 MP Ultra Wide, Telephoto Front: 12 MP True Depth |
| Storage | From 128 GB to 512 GB | From 128 GB to 512 GB | From 256 GB to 1 TB | From 128 GB to 1 TB |
| Chip | A18 | A18 | A18 Pro | A18 Pro |
| Other features | Aluminum frame, Dynamic Island | Aluminum frame, Dynamic Island | Titanium frame, Dynamic Island, ProMotion technology, Always On display | Titanium frame, Dynamic Island, ProMotion technology, Always On display |
How much do iPhone 16 phones cost?
On launch, the prices for the iPhone 16 lineup were as follows:
- iPhone 16: Starting at $799 for the 128 GB version
- iPhone 16 Plus: Starting at $899 for the 128 GB version
- iPhone 16 Pro: Starting at $999 for the 128 GB version
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: Starting at $1,199 for the 256 GB version
If you need more storage space on your phone, expect to pay extra. Typically, the retail price jumps up by $100 with every step up in storage.
That said, the iPhone 16 has been replaced by the iPhone 17 lineup. As a result, you may be able to find iPhone 16 models cheaper than their retail price at launch.
Is the iPhone 16 eSIM-compatible?
Yes, all iPhone 16 phones are eSIM-compatible. More importantly, all phones sold in the US only support eSIMs and don’t have a physical SIM card slot. This means that iPhone users in the US are no longer able to use physical SIMs and have to set up eSIMs on their iPhones instead.
iPhone 16 lineup phones sold outside of the US still have a physical SIM slot, but also support eSIM technology. The only exemptions are phones sold in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, which don’t support eSIMs.
iPhone 16 new features
While Apple didn’t introduce any groundbreaking new features with the iPhone 16 lineup, some notable changes still came with these phones:
- Display and sound upgrades: iPhone 16 phones offer higher brightness levels and more accurate colors compared to older models.
- Action button: A button that you can customize yourself. Choose whatever you want the button to do, and change its function as you wish.
- Macro photography: While older iPhone Pro and Pro Max models already had macro photography, the iPhone 16 lineup is the first to include this feature in all phones.
How does the iPhone 16 compare to the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 17?
Not sure if you should go with the newer model, or even consider the one that came before the iPhone 16? Here’s a quick comparison of what the base models in each lineup had to offer.
| iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 | iPhone 17 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 6.1” | 6.1” | 6.3” |
| Battery life | Up to 20 hours of video playback | Up to 22 hours of video playback | Up to 30 hours of video playback |
| Cameras | Rear: 48 MP main, 12 MP Ultra Wide Front: 12 MP True Depth | Rear: 48 MP main, 12 MP Ultra Wide Front: 12 MP True Depth | Rear: 48 MP Dual Fusion Main and Ultra Wide Front: 18 MP Center Stage camera |
| Storage | From 128 GB to 512 GB | From 128 GB to 512 GB | From 256 GB to 512 GB |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | A18 | A19 |
eSIM on iPhone 16: Key takeaways
The iPhone 16 continues Apple’s shift toward digital connectivity by removing the physical SIM card slot from US models. Using an eSIM on your iPhone offers more flexibility when managing multiple plans, switching carriers, or preparing for international travel.
Whether you’re activating a new line, using eSIM Quick Transfer, or scanning a QR code, setup is simple and fast.
Travelers can choose between destination-based Holafly eSIMs or Holafly Plans—a monthly, recurring plan with broad coverage, unlimited data, and hotspot sharing, ideal for using your Apple iPhone 16 as a mobile WiFi source.
SIM swapping is the past
Your eSIM is always on your phone, simply activate it whenever you need mobile data.
Plans that may interest you
With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
