The highly anticipated Apple iPhone 16 was officially launched last night at 10 PM Pakistan time, confirming several rumors and leaks that had been circulating for weeks. Apple’s latest flagship smartphones bring exciting new features, including a larger display, advanced camera functionalities, and a new Desert Titanium color option for the Pro models.
One of the most talked-about features of the iPhone 16 series is the addition of a Capture Button, which has been introduced across all models, including the base iPhone 16, the larger iPhone 16 Plus, and the high-end iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The new Capture Button allows users to more easily take photos and videos, offering a smoother photography experience.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, the top-tier model, comes with a 5x telephoto zoom camera, enhancing the device’s photo-taking capabilities. Both Pro models now also feature new camera modules that allow for improved image quality and flexibility in photo settings. The Camera Control Button, found on both Pro models, promises even more advanced two-stage photography features in future updates, giving users additional control over their camera settings.
In terms of hardware, the iPhone 16 series is powered by the new Apple A18 chip, which brings faster performance and greater energy efficiency to all models. The tougher glass front, along with new color options like Desert Titanium, adds to the overall durability and aesthetic appeal of the devices. The iPhone 16 Plus shares most of the same features as the iPhone 16 but offers a larger 6.7-inch display, compared to the 6.1-inch display on the base model.
The launch of the iPhone 16 series has generated significant interest among Apple enthusiasts, especially in Pakistan. The pricing rumors have been confirmed, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max starting at $1,199—the same price as its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max. However, prices in Pakistan are expected to be significantly higher due to local taxes and the additional cost of PTA approval.
Mobile shop owners in Pakistan have predicted that the PTA approval fees for the iPhone 16 series could be as high, if not higher, than those for the iPhone 15 series, which were around Rs180,000. With these additional costs, the unofficial price for the base iPhone 16 in Pakistan is expected to exceed Rs450,000, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max may reach up to Rs900,000. These high prices mirror the trends seen last year, where the iPhone 15 Pro Max was sold for as much as Rs900,000 in the first two months following its launch.
Despite these steep prices, many Apple enthusiasts in Pakistan are expected to embrace the new iPhone 16 series, as those who frequently upgrade their devices tend to be early adopters of Apple’s latest offerings. The distributor for Apple in Pakistan, Mercantile, recently removed the iPhone 15 series prices from its website, signaling that the iPhone 16 series might be officially available in the local market by late September or early October.
As with previous iPhone releases, the parallel market is expected to see inflated prices for the iPhone 16 series in Pakistan, especially before the official availability. Early importers typically sell new iPhones at a premium, taking advantage of customers eager to be among the first to own the latest devices. This practice often results in much higher costs for buyers who are willing to pay a premium to avoid waiting for the official release.
Mobile shop owners have indicated that the iPhone 16 series, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, will likely be available in limited stock initially. Import restrictions and high taxes are expected to further limit availability, with more units arriving gradually in the coming months.
Additionally, some mobile shopkeepers confirmed plans to import Gevey (JV) models, which offer a more affordable alternative to PTA-approved iPhones. JV models are expected to be sold at a lower price, appealing to customers who are looking for cheaper options. However, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has yet to take action against JV iPhones, which continue to be popular among buyers seeking cost-effective alternatives.
Apple Watch 10: The new standard Apple Watch features a larger, brighter screen, a thinner body, and new finishes, including titanium. It can now play music and podcasts through its speakers and detect sleep apnea.
Apple Watch Ultra 2: Although no major upgrades were introduced, the Ultra 2 received a new finish and a stylish Hermes band. There were no announcements regarding the rumored Apple Watch Ultra 3.
AirPods 4: Featuring a slight redesign for added comfort, the AirPods 4 come with improved audio and spatial audio, a feature previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro.
AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A mid-range model between the standard AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, offering ANC at a more affordable price.
AirPods Pro 2: While no new model was introduced, Apple announced future updates for the current AirPods Pro 2, including new health features such as a hearing test and a hearing aid mode.
AirPods Max: No new Max model, but the current version will get a refresh with new colors like Midnight, Purple, Orange, Starlight, and Blue, along with added health features.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max have taken center stage with their advanced camera modules and 5x telephoto zoom features. These enhancements, along with the Capture Button and Camera Control Button, promise to elevate the user experience, especially for photography enthusiasts.
