iPhone 16: Is It Worth Upgrading Without Full Apple Intelligence?

It is common knowledge that Apple’s new iPhone models release is always a big deal, and the same applies to the iPhone 16. However, many users might be considering this upgrade for one specific reason: In this case, it is Apple Intelligence. The iPhone 15 Pro and future iPhone 16 will be equipped with this AI technology and this raises the question on whether the owners of older devices should upgrade to the new models. But, there’s a catch.

Comparing the performance of Siri and other voices with Kelso’s and using the Kazakh pronunciation as a guide, Apple intelligence isn’t ready yet.
While iPhone 16 will be released with IOS 18 version, all the features of Apple Intelligence will be available in the phone will not be available at once. Apple said that this advanced AI tools will be released in phases with the first one being released in the later part of this year and the last one in 2025. This also implies that if you decide to purchase the iPhone 16 as soon as it is released into the market, there are likelihood that you will not be able to enjoy some of the features for several months.

apple intelligence

The Rollout Timeline

First of all, it is expected that the iPhone 16 will be shipped with the iOS 18. 0, a version which does not have many of the AI features that have been touted to be a part of the new platform. The first major change in terms of version, is iOS 18. 1 is anticipated to be released by October and even then it will not be fully loaded with the features that were promised such as better AI performance.

Other expected tools include the Genmoji that is yet to be launched and the integration of ChatGPT in Siri in the iOS 18. 2 update. It is expected that this will happen sometime in the course of this year and may be as late as November. If you want to feel the full extent of Apple Intelligence then you may have to wait for quite a while, probably for 2025 and beyond.

Should I Upgrade to iPhone 16?

As such, some consumers might end up having second thoughts when it comes to the purchasing decision. The iPhone 16 will be an improved device but, to provide the AI-based experience Apple has been talking about, the company will take until mid-2025. If you are using iPhone 13 or 14 it may be better to wait for the release of the new iPhone 17 which will possibly come with a more stable and versatile operating system.

Should One Wait for the New iPhone 17?

During the WWDC announcement in this year, Apple revealed some possible issues and half-baked solutions in the initial versions of Apple Intelligence. This has led to several wondering if it would be worthwhile to completely pass on the iphone 16 and rather wait for the iphone 17 that should come with a more refined ios 18 and its artificial intelligence elements.

If you are ready to jump on the bandwagon and be an early adopter, then the iPhone 16 is still a good option to consider. But, perhaps, a more experienced user should wait for further improvements and get a better and smoother product in return.

What’s your take? Are you planning to get yourself an iPhone 16 or are you waiting for the release of the iPhone 17? We would love to know your thoughts in the comments!