This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
The iPhone 16 is about to be released and Apple fans around the world are excited about the new features and improvements. But despite the excitement of announcing the new features, there are some important features that will not be available at launch. In this article, you will learn all about the missing features on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro and what to expect in the upcoming updates.
With the announcement of the iPhone 16, Apple introduced a number of innovative features that are intended to take the smartphone experience to a new level. In addition to new chips, larger displays and improved cameras, Apple places great emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and smart assistance systems. However, many of these highlights will not be available at release. You can find out in detail why this is the case and which features are missing in this article.
(Note: In EU countries, everything related to Apple Intelligence will be missing until further notice – when Apple will offer these functions in this country remains open for now!)
The two-stage shutter of the camera control
One of the most exciting new features of the iPhone 16 is the camera control, which is activated by a special physical button. With it, you can quickly access the camera and control the zoom by sliding. Pressing the button takes the photo. However, the so-called two-stage shutter is missing at the launch of the iPhone 16, which will be added later this year. With this function, you can lock the focus and exposure with a light press while you change the image composition. This will enable you to take even more professional photos without losing focus on your subject.
New Siri
The new Siri, which Apple presented at the "It's Glowtime" event, will also not be available immediately. Although the iPhone 16 already comes with iOS 18, the improved Siri will only be available with the iOS 18.1 update. This version of the voice assistant is supported by Apple Intelligence and is said to be much more intelligent and interactive. The new Siri will be able to answer context-based requests even more precisely and will glow with a new, visually appealing design. Unfortunately, users will have to wait until the first major iOS update before they can experience these functions.
Visual Intelligence
Another feature that will be missing from the iPhone 16 launch is Visual Intelligence. This feature uses the iPhone's camera to learn more about places and objects in the real world. Imagine pointing your camera at a restaurant and it will instantly show you its hours and reviews. Similar to Google Lens, Visual Intelligence will be enabled with a software update later this year. You'll also be able to use the new camera controls to quickly gather information about objects, add events to your calendar, or even identify a dog's breed.
Apple Intelligence and missing AI features
Apple Intelligence was particularly highlighted when the iPhone 16 was announced. However, these features, which are based on advanced artificial intelligence, will also only be available after the launch of the iPhone 16. The missing features include:
- Genmoji: personalized emojis tailored to your character.
- AI notifications: a summary of important news tailored to your interests.
- Clean-up for the photo app: automated sorting and removal of unwanted or duplicate photos.
- Writing tools: intelligent text suggestions and improvements for emails and messages.
- ChatGPT integration: direct access to ChatGPT technology for troubleshooting and more.
These features will be rolled out in phases: a first wave with iOS 18.1 in October 2024, followed by further improvements in December 2024 with iOS 18.2. Some of the most exciting AI features won't be fully implemented until 2025. Citizens in EU countries will have to wait much longer as things stand, so don't plan to buy an iPhone 16 model because of Apple Intelligence.
Functions on ice: These features are missing at the launch of the iPhone 16
Despite the many exciting announcements and features that the iPhone 16 brings with it, users will have to do without some of the most exciting features at launch. From improved camera controls to the new Siri to advanced AI features - many of these features will only come with future updates. Although these delays can be annoying, Apple promises that the missing features will significantly improve the user experience of the iPhone 16 in the coming months. So those who can wait for the full potential of their new iPhone will enjoy it all the more later. (Image: Apple)
- iPhone 16: First Geekbench results of the A18 chip revealed
- No Apple Intelligence for Germany? Apple's plans for 2025
