23 Tips and Tricks for iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max: Unlock the Full Potential of Your Device

The iPhone 16 series is packed with incredible features, but many of them are hidden beneath the surface. Whether you’ve just unboxed your iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, or 16 Pro Max, or you’ve been using it for a while, this guide will help you unlock its full potential.

Below, we’ve compiled 23 detailed tips and tricks to help you master your device, optimize its performance, and make the most of its cutting-edge features.

1. Check Your Battery Health

Your iPhone’s battery is one of its most important components. To ensure your battery is in good condition:

• Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
• Check the Maximum Capacity—it should be at 100% if your phone is new. If it’s lower and you’ve had the phone for less than 14 days, consider returning it.
• Look at the Cycle Count—this shows how many times your battery has been charged. A low number (under 10) is normal for a new device.

This step ensures your battery is healthy and ready to deliver long-lasting performance.

2. Set a Charge Limit for Better Battery Longevity

To extend your battery’s lifespan:

• Go to Settings > Battery > Charging.
• Enable Charge Limit and set it to 80-90%. Charging your battery to 100% regularly can degrade it over time, so limiting the charge helps preserve its health.
• Disable Optimized Battery Charging if you want your phone to charge fully without delays.

This simple trick can help your battery last longer and perform better over the years.

3. Show Battery Percentage in the Status Bar

If you want to keep a closer eye on your battery level:

• Go to Settings > Battery.
• Toggle on Show Battery Percentage.

Now, you’ll always know exactly how much battery life you have left.

4. Master the Camera Control Button

The new Camera Control Button is a game-changer for photography enthusiasts. Here’s how to use it:

• Single Press: Opens the camera app instantly.
• Double Press: Switches between camera modes (e.g., zoom, depth, exposure).
• Press and Hold: Starts recording a video.
• Light Press: Adjusts zoom by swiping left or right.

You can customize the button’s sensitivity in Settings > Accessibility > Camera Control to make it easier to use.

5. Customize the Camera Control Button’s Function

Don’t want the button to open the camera? No problem:

• Go to Settings > Camera > Camera Control.
• Change the button’s function to open a third-party app like Instagram or a code scanner.

This customization makes the button even more versatile.

6. Enable 48MP Photos

By default, your iPhone 16 doesn’t shoot in full 48MP resolution. To unlock this feature:

• Go to Settings > Camera > Formats.
• Turn on Resolution Control.
• In the camera app, tap JPEG Max to enable 48MP mode.

Your photos will now have incredible detail and clarity.

7. Use Photographic Styles for Stunning Shots

The iPhone 16 introduces advanced Photographic Styles:

• Open the camera app and tap the Styles icon (square in the top-right corner).
• Swipe to choose a style (e.g., warm, cool, vibrant).
• Adjust the brightness and color tone using the on-screen controls.

These styles let you create professional-looking photos without editing.

8. Take Macro Photos with the Ultra-Wide Lens

The iPhone 16’s ultra-wide lens now supports macro photography:

• Get close to your subject (within a few inches).
• The camera will automatically switch to macro mode, indicated by a flower icon.
• Capture stunning close-up shots with incredible detail.

9. Customize Your Home Screen

iOS 18 takes home screen customization to the next level:

• Press and hold the home screen to enter Edit Mode.
• Tap Customize to change icon sizes, tint colors, and arrange apps freely.
• Use the Color Picker to match your icons to your wallpaper.

You can also create themed home screens for different moods or activities.

10. Personalize the Control Center

The Control Center is now fully customizable:

• Go to Settings > Control Center.
• Add or remove controls like Flashlight, Calculator, or Shortcuts.
• Create multiple pages for different sets of controls.

This makes accessing your favorite features faster and easier.

11. Lock and Hide Apps

Keep your private apps secure:

• Press and hold an app icon, then select Require Face ID.
• Choose Lock and Hide to remove the app from your home screen and hide it in the App Library.

Only you can access these apps with Face ID.

12. Use the Action Button for Quick Shortcuts

The Action Button (available on all iPhone 16 models) is incredibly versatile:

• Go to Settings > Action Button.
• Set it to open your favorite app, toggle Dark Mode, or activate a Shortcut.
• For example, you can set it to unlock your car or start a voice recording.

This button replaces the old mute switch and is much more functional.

13. Record Phone Calls

With iOS 18, you can now record phone calls:

• During a call, tap the Waveform Icon in the top-left corner.
• Both parties will hear a notification that the call is being recorded.
• The recording will be saved in the Notes app with a transcript.

This is perfect for important conversations or interviews.

14. Enhance Video Audio with Audio Mix

The iPhone 16 Pro’s four-microphone array allows for advanced audio editing:

• Open a video in the Photos app and tap Edit.
• Use the Audio Mix feature to adjust sound quality.
• Choose from modes like Cinematic, Studio, or In-Frame to enhance your audio.

Your videos will sound as good as they look.

15. Shoot 4K 120FPS Video

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max can record ultra-smooth 4K video at 120 frames per second:

• Open the camera app and switch to Video Mode.
• Tap the frame rate icon and select 4K at 120 FPS.
• Use the Speedometer Icon in the Photos app to adjust playback speed during editing.

This feature is perfect for capturing fast action or creating slow-motion effects.

16. Use Spatial Video for 3D Memories

The iPhone 16 series supports Spatial Video:

• Open the camera app and switch to Spatial Mode.
• Record videos that can be viewed in 3D on devices like the Apple Vision Pro.

This is a great way to preserve memories in a more immersive format.

17. Hide Distracting Items in Safari

Safari’s new Hide Distracting Items feature makes browsing cleaner:

• Tap the Share Icon while viewing a webpage.
• Select Hide Distracting Items.
• Tap any element (like an ad) to remove it from the page.

This is perfect for reading articles without interruptions.

18. Mirror Your iPhone on Your Mac

With iPhone Mirroring, you can control your iPhone from your Mac:

• Ensure both devices are updated to the latest software.
• Open the Sidecar app on your Mac.
• Your iPhone screen will appear on your Mac, and you can control it with your mouse and keyboard.

This is ideal for multitasking or giving presentations.

19. Use Eye Tracking for Hands-Free Control

The iPhone 16 supports Eye Tracking:

• Go to Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control.
• Enable Eye Tracking and follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate.
• Use your eyes to navigate your phone without touching it.

This feature is perfect for accessibility or when your hands are busy.

20. Customize Your Torch Beam

The iPhone 16’s flashlight now has adjustable beam settings:

• Swipe up to open the Control Center and tap the Flashlight Icon.
• Swipe left or right to adjust the beam width.
• Swipe up or down to change the brightness.

This makes the flashlight more versatile for different situations.

21. Create Custom Routes in Maps

Plan your trips with custom routes:

• Open the Maps app and enter your destination.
• Tap Directions and select Walking.
• Swipe down and choose Create Custom Route.
• Add waypoints to your route for a personalized journey.

This is great for hiking, sightseeing, or exploring new areas.

22. Use Shortcuts to Automate Tasks

The Shortcuts app lets you automate repetitive tasks:

• Open the Shortcuts app and tap + to create a new shortcut.
• Add actions like sending a message, playing music, or opening an app.
• Assign the shortcut to the Action Button for quick access.

For example, you can create a shortcut to turn on all your smart home devices with one tap.

23. Protect Your Phone with a Durable Case

Your iPhone 16 is an investment, so protect it with a high-quality case:

• Look for cases with MagSafe compatibility, drop protection, and customizable buttons.
• Brands like Rhino Shield and ESR offer stylish and durable options.

A good case ensures your phone stays safe while looking great.

FAQ: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the iPhone 16 series:

1. How do I enable 48MP photos on my iPhone 16?

To enable 48MP photos, go to Settings > Camera > Formats and turn on Resolution Control. Then, open the Camera app and tap the JPEG Max button to switch to 48MP mode. This ensures you’re capturing the highest-quality photos possible.

2. Can I customize the Camera Control Button?

Yes! You can customize the Camera Control Button to launch different apps or features. Go to Settings > Camera > Camera Control and choose between the default camera app, a third-party app like Instagram, or even a code scanner. You can also adjust the button’s sensitivity in Accessibility Settings.

3. How do I record phone calls on my iPhone 16?

With iOS 18, you can now record phone calls. During a call, tap the Record Button in the top-left corner. Both parties will hear an audible prompt, and the recording will be saved in the Notes app with a transcript for easy reference.

4. What’s the best way to extend my iPhone 16’s battery life?

To extend your battery’s lifespan, set a Charge Limit in Settings > Battery > Charging. Keeping your battery between 80-90% is ideal for long-term health. Additionally, avoid exposing your phone to extreme temperatures and use optimized charging settings.

5. Can I use the iPhone 16 Pro’s 4K 120FPS video feature on the regular iPhone 16?

No, the 4K 120FPS video recording feature is exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models. However, the regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus still offer excellent video capabilities, including Spatial Video Recording and improved Ultra-Wide shots.

Final Thoughts

The iPhone 16 series is packed with features designed to make your life easier, more productive, and more fun. By following these 23 tips and tricks, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of your device and enjoy a seamless, personalized experience. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a multitasker, or someone who loves customization, there’s something here for everyone.

Take the time to explore these features and make your iPhone 16 truly your own.