Short answer
iPhone 16 is the better phone: A18 chip, Apple Intelligence, Camera Control, Action Button, macro and a longer-lasting battery. Choose iPhone 15 only if the price saving is meaningful.
The biggest difference is software capability: iPhone 16 supports Apple Intelligence, iPhone 15 does not.
Comparison
| iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A16 | A18 |
| Apple Intelligence | No | Yes |
| Buttons | Mute switch | Action Button and Camera Control |
| Ultra wide camera | Standard | Autofocus with macro |
| Battery | Good | Better |
| Design | Diagonal cameras | Vertical cameras |
Should you upgrade?
If you own iPhone 15 and don't care about AI features, you can wait. If you're buying, iPhone 16 will stay supported longer.
Frequently asked questions
Does iPhone 15 get Apple Intelligence?
No. Only iPhone 15 Pro and later do.
What does Camera Control do?
It opens the camera and lets you adjust settings by touch.