Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Pro Series in India: Bigger Display, Lower Price

Apple has notably slashed prices for its iPhone 16 Pro models in India, a rare decision as global pricing remains unaffected. At the recent 'Glowtime' event, Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, showcasing major upgrades such as larger displays, advanced camera enhancements, and innovative AI capabilities in its flagship lineup.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Pricing in India

The iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) is now priced at ₹1,19,900 in India, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) comes in at ₹1,44,900. This marks a significant drop compared to last year's iPhone 15 Pro prices, which started at ₹1,34,990 for the iPhone 15 Pro and ₹1,56,990 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Interestingly, Apple has kept international prices for the iPhone 16 Pro series unchanged, making this price reduction exclusive to the Indian market.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus remain priced the same. The base model (128GB) is available at ₹79,990, and the iPhone 16 Plus starts at ₹89,990.

Features of iPhone 16 Pro

A key highlight of the iPhone 16 Pro series is the larger display size. The iPhone 16 Pro now features a 6.3-inch screen, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts an impressive 6.9-inch display. Both models have thinner bezels, offering more screen space without increasing the overall size of the phones.

Apple has also significantly upgraded the camera technology in the iPhone 16 Pro models. Both versions now include a 5x telephoto lens, a feature previously limited to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The primary camera is a 48MP fusion camera equipped with a second-generation quad-pixel sensor, enabling users to capture stunning 48MP ProRAW images. Additionally, a 48MP ultra-wide camera has been introduced for enhanced macro photography.

Later this year, Apple will introduce a new dedicated camera button, providing users with more precise control over photography features through a capacitive interface. Both iPhone 16 Pro models are powered by the A18 Bionic Pro chip, built on a 3nm architecture that delivers faster performance and improved energy efficiency. The A18 Pro includes a 16-core neural engine designed to handle generative AI tasks and a 6-core GPU optimised for high-end graphics performance.

Apple is also embracing AI with its new "Apple Intelligence" features, enhancing Siri’s capabilities and integrating tools like ChatGPT for smarter responses. These AI-driven features simplify tasks like messaging, email management, and proofreading, elevating the user experience. Some of these AI enhancements will be available with the iOS 18 beta later this year.

Watch Series 10

At its "It’s Glowtime" event on September 9, Apple also unveiled the Watch Series 10 alongside the iPhone 16 series. The new Apple Watch features a larger display, a slimmer design, and expanded health monitoring capabilities, including Sleep Apnea detection. Additionally, the Series 10 is now available with a titanium casing, replacing the previous stainless-steel option.

Apple also introduced the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which now comes in a Black Titanium finish, along with a new Titanium Milanese Loop band. Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in Black Titanium are available for pre-order in India, with sales starting on September 20.

The Apple Watch Series 10 is powered by the new S10 SiP (System in Package), featuring a four-core Neural Engine (Neural Processing Unit). According to Apple, this Neural Engine enhances the performance of several machine learning-driven features, including Siri, the Double Tap gesture, activity tracking, and car crash detection. Leveraging the new Neural Engine, Apple has also introduced a “Voice Isolation” feature, which reduces background noise during calls made from the watch. Additionally, the Apple Watch now supports audio playback through its built-in speakers.

On the health front, Apple has added Sleep Apnea detection to the Series 10. Launching later this year, this feature will monitor key metrics like heart rate, respiratory rate, and wrist temperature overnight to help detect symptoms of Sleep Apnea.

Pricing

42mm (Aluminium): Rs 46,900

46mm (Aluminium): Rs 49,900

42mm (Titanium): Rs 79,900

46mm (Titanium): Rs 84,900

Ultra with Titanium Milanese Loop: Rs 104,900

Apple's decision to reduce prices in India while maintaining them globally highlights the company's commitment to making its premium phones more accessible in this key market. By offering the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max with top-tier features and cutting-edge technology at a lower price, Apple is poised to attract a broader customer base in India, strengthening its market presence. The iPhone 16 Pro series is now available for pre-order, with official sales set to begin later this month.