Apple’s next-generation iPhone 16 series is expected to debut in September, featuring a new battery design and a powerful new processor that promises longer battery life.
Everyone desires longer battery life and greater power. Moreover, consumers also hope for iPhones to be more durable, given their high price point which discourages frequent upgrades.
Additionally, the entire iPhone 16 series may come equipped with the same new processor. According to Taiwan’s “Commercial Times,” reports from the supply chain suggest that the base model of the iPhone 16 will use a standard A18 processor manufactured using TSMC’s 3-nanometer N3E chip, continuing the design from the A17 Pro. The iPhone 16 Pro model will upgrade to the all-new A18 Pro processor with enhanced graphics and AI computing capabilities, about 15% to 20% larger than the A18. The new processor is also expected to extend battery life.
According to business technology media outlet The Information, the iPhone 16 may feature battery enclosures made of different materials, replacing the current aluminum foils with a metal casing.
This indicates that the next-generation phone will have improved thermal management efficiency, potentially avoiding controversies regarding overheating issues with the iPhone 16.
“Forbes” magazine points out that this change also brings another important development: battery replacements may become easier. Currently, replacing an iPhone battery is a complex process that involves delicately removing adhesive strips with tweezers, and if the strips break during removal, adhesive needs to be applied. With the new metal casing battery and electro-conductive adhesive debonding technology, batteries can be easily detached from the chassis by applying low voltage.
Easier battery replacements mean consumers can choose to replace the battery rather than the entire phone, thereby extending the lifespan of their iPhone.
It is expected that the new batteries may only appear in some iPhone 16 models and not across the entire lineup. The upcoming iPhone 17 series expected in 2025 will feature the new battery design across all models.
The new battery design of the iPhone also aligns better with the requirements of the European Union. The EU mandates that mobile phone designs should prioritize customer convenience, making it easier for customers to replace batteries.
If a battery does not retain at least 83% of its charge after 500 full cycles or 80% after 1,000 cycles, there is a need for a more convenient battery replacement design. While all the latest iPhone 15 models passed the 1,000-cycle charging test, earlier models did not.
Introducing new battery technology is crucial for the Apple brand, suggesting that iPhones will ultimately become more durable.