The Vergecast
Reviewing the iPhone 16
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- The new Apple devices, including the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4, have received mixed reviews regarding their incremental upgrades.
- The iPhone 16 and 16 Pro boast new features, but existing iPhone users may not find them compelling enough to upgrade.
- Battery life and health features are notable improvements in the Apple Watch Series 10, adding real value for consumers.
- AirPods 4 with noise cancellation provide a unique experience, but limitations exist, making them less effective than over-ear models.
- The Pixel smartphone is increasingly competitive, especially with its integration into Google services, making it an appealing choice for potential switchers.
Summary
Introduction and New Gear Reviews
The episode kicks off with a casual discussion about the host's new computer monitor before diving into the main topic: reviews of Apple's newest devices for the fall, including the iPhone 16, 16 Pro, the Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4. The hosts discuss the excitement around these products, sharing insights on their performance, design changes, and whether these upgrades are worth the investment.
iPhone 16 and 16 Pro
The hosts provide detailed reviews of the iPhone 16 lineup, highlighting the differences between the standard and Pro models. They discuss the significant features of iOS 18 and whether the new devices are compelling enough for existing iPhone users to upgrade. Points of debate include the lack of game-changing features and whether the incremental upgrades justify a new purchase.
Apple Watch Series 10
Next, the hosts talk about the Apple Watch Series 10 and examine its new features, including health monitoring capabilities and enhanced comfort. The conversation touches on its battery life and the integration of Apple's health services, which adds value to the device. The hosts also compare it to previous models and discuss whether it's worth upgrading from older versions.
AirPods 4 and Noise Cancellation
The AirPods 4 are reviewed in-depth, particularly the introduction of noise cancellation. The hosts discuss how well ANC functions in open-air designs, emphasizing its limitations while celebrating its audio quality. Comparisons are made between the AirPods and the AirPods Pro, noting that while the Pro model offers superior sound and features, the standard model is still a strong option for users.
The Case for the Pixel in 2024
In the last segment, the hosts shift focus to the Pixel smartphone as they answer a listener's question about the benefits of transitioning from iPhone to Pixel. They discuss the new features and enhancements Google's products bring to the table, including the growing strength of the overall Google ecosystem, making it a compelling option for those looking to switch.
Sponsors
- Waymo · While I've never written in an autonomous vehicle myself, Vox and Waymo teamed up for an in-depth study about AV perception. This experience may feel futuristic, but as people learned more about Waymo, their interest in choosing one over a human-driven vehicle almost doubled.
- Mint Mobile · On the gray area podcast, we're asking, what happened to optimism? Tune in to Reasons to be Cheerful, a special series sponsored by Mint Mobile.
Show notes
We've finally finished testing, scoring, and reviewing Apple's new gear for the fall. On this episode we talk through our reviews of the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, the Apple Watch 10, and the AirPods 4, to see whether they're real upgrades and whether they're worth your money. And then, on the Vergecast Hotline (866-VERGE11), we make the case for the Pixel in 2024.
Email us at vergecast@theverge.com or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you.
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