On the outside they are almost twins: the same size, the same 6.1-inch 60 Hz display, the same 48 MP main camera. But there is one difference that in 2026 outweighs all the others. Let me explain.
Short answer
iPhone 16 - if you want Apple Intelligence and longer update support: A18 and 8 GB of RAM. iPhone 15 - if AI features don't interest you and you'd like to save some money.
Key differences
| Spec | iPhone 16 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A18 (3 nm) | A16 Bionic (4 nm) |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB |
| Apple Intelligence | yes | no |
| Ultra-wide | 12 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.4 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Wireless charging | 25 W | 15 W |
| Weight | 170 g | 171 g |
| Battery | 3561 mAh | 3349 mAh |
| Price | current prices | current prices |
The same: 6.1" OLED at 1179×2556, 60 Hz, up to 2000 nits, 48 MP main camera, 12 MP front camera, IP68, USB-C (USB 2), aluminium frame.
The main difference - Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 15 doesn't support Apple Intelligence - the A16 and 6 GB of RAM aren't enough. The iPhone 16 with the A18 and 8 GB does. If you are interested in AI tools for text, photos and Siri, the choice is obvious. Plus, 8 GB of RAM gives a longer update horizon.
What else is new in the 16
- Camera Control and the Action button.
- Wi-Fi 7.
- 25 W MagSafe instead of 15 W.
- An f/2.2 ultra-wide - slightly better in low light.
What's the same
The display is the same, 60 Hz. The main camera is the same. So if you buy a phone "for photos and messaging", the difference is minimal.
Verdict: who should buy which
- Apple Intelligence and long support - iPhone 16.
- Maximum savings - iPhone 15.
- For a grandparent, a child, or as a second phone - the iPhone 15 is enough.
- You need 120 Hz - neither, look at the iPhone 17.
FAQ
Does the iPhone 15 support Apple Intelligence?
No.
Does the iPhone 16 have 120 Hz?
No, 60 Hz, same as the 15.
How much RAM does the iPhone 16 have?
8 GB vs 6 GB in the iPhone 15.