If you’ve been asking when does the iPhone 16 come out, the wait is officially over. Apple confirmed that the iPhone 16 series was announced on September 9, 2024, with pre-orders beginning September 13, 2024, and the worldwide release happening on September 20, 2024.
The question “when does the iPhone 16 come out” has dominated tech conversations since early 2024, with leaks and rumors keeping fans on edge. Now that Apple has made it official, the excitement has shifted toward the device’s innovative upgrades — from Apple Intelligence to the faster A18 chip and an enhanced camera system.
For consumers, knowing when does the iPhone 16 come out is more than trivia — it’s about preparing for trade-ins, securing pre-orders before stocks run out, and making sure you’re ready for one of the most advanced iPhones ever made. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know.
iPhone 16 Release Date
The big question on everyone’s mind has been when does the iPhone 16 come out, and Apple has officially put the speculation to rest. The iPhone 16 lineup was revealed during Apple’s highly anticipated September event, a date circled by tech enthusiasts every year.
Here’s the complete release timeline so you know exactly when to expect it:
- Official Announcement: September 9, 2024 — This was the day Apple showcased the iPhone 16 and all its new features to the world.
- Pre-orders Begin: September 13, 2024 — Fans can secure their device before it hits shelves, often the safest route for those who want specific colors or storage sizes.
- Global Release: September 20, 2024 — Available in major markets including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe.
- Additional Markets: September 27, 2024 — Countries like India, Thailand, and parts of Asia will join the second wave of availability.
Understanding when does the iPhone 16 come out is important for anyone who wants to avoid waiting weeks — or even months — for restocks. Apple’s launch days often see overwhelming demand, and shipping times can stretch if you miss the first window.
What’s New in iPhone 16
Knowing when does the iPhone 16 come out is exciting, but the real anticipation builds when you see what Apple has packed into the device. The iPhone 16 represents one of the biggest technological leaps in the iPhone lineup over the past five years.
Major Innovations You’ll See:
- Apple Intelligence: This is not just a voice assistant upgrade — it’s a full integration of AI into the user experience. You’ll see smarter app suggestions, more accurate Siri responses, real-time voice translation, and on-device transcription without sending data to Apple’s servers.
- Camera Control Button: A physical “Capture” button that feels like a DSLR shutter. It allows for instant camera access, quick zoom changes, and the ability to switch between photo and video modes seamlessly.
- A18 Chip: The most powerful chip Apple has produced, designed to boost performance in gaming, augmented reality, and AI processing while being more energy-efficient than previous generations.
- Battery Enhancements: Apple claims you’ll get up to 2 extra hours of battery life compared to the iPhone 15, with improved heat management to keep the device cooler under heavy use.
- Design Refinements: Slimmer bezels, lighter materials, and a more durable frame make the phone both sleeker and stronger.
The combination of these upgrades makes the answer to when does the iPhone 16 come out even more important — because you’ll want to get these features into your hands as soon as possible.
Why This Launch Matters for Tech & Startups
The question when does the iPhone 16 come out is more than just a consumer query — it’s a critical date for entire industries.
Apple’s decision to introduce Apple Intelligence signals a turning point in mobile technology. On-device AI means apps can process complex tasks without relying on internet connectivity, making them faster, more private, and more reliable. For startups, this opens the door to building apps that deliver instant results in areas like productivity, creativity, and gaming.
For hardware manufacturers, the new Camera Control Button and upgraded chip mean accessories such as stabilizers, camera lenses, and gaming controllers could see a surge in demand. The exact date of when does the iPhone 16 come out is therefore key for production timelines and marketing campaigns.
In short, Apple’s September 20 release isn’t just about launching a phone — it’s about setting the stage for the next wave of mobile innovation.
Pricing & Models
When people ask when does the iPhone 16 come out, they usually follow up with questions about price and available models. Apple has kept pricing competitive, especially considering the upgrades included this year.
Here’s the breakdown:
- iPhone 16 — Starting at $799, making it a strong value for anyone upgrading from models two or more years old.
- iPhone 16 Plus — Starting at $899, offering a bigger display and longer battery life.
- Storage Options — 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and a massive 1TB for those who shoot lots of 4K video or store large files locally.
- Color Choices — Midnight, Starlight, Product(RED), Blue, and an all-new Pastel Yellow that’s expected to be in high demand.
If you know when does the iPhone 16 come out, you can time your purchase to get the exact model and color you want before they start selling out.
How to Prepare for Launch Day
Once you know when does the iPhone 16 come out, preparation is the difference between getting your phone on day one and waiting weeks.
Here’s how to be ready:
- Pre-order as Soon as Possible: Apple’s online store typically opens pre-orders at 5 a.m. Pacific Time. Being early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred configuration.
- Trade-in Before the Rush: Carriers and Apple itself often offer higher trade-in values before a launch. Waiting could mean losing out on significant savings.
- Check Carrier Promotions: Some carriers offer free storage upgrades, discounted monthly plans, or even buy-one-get-one offers tied to the launch.
- Buy Accessories Ahead of Time: Popular cases, chargers, and screen protectors often sell out within days of launch. Ordering before when does the iPhone 16 come out ensures you’re ready to protect your new device immediately.
iPhone Launch Timeline
Looking at Apple’s past launches shows why when does the iPhone 16 come out is so predictable yet still so important. Apple tends to follow a pattern, but the exact Friday release date can change slightly each year.
- iPhone 12 — October 23, 2020 (delayed due to global supply issues)
- iPhone 13 — September 24, 2021
- iPhone 14 — September 16, 2022
- iPhone 15 — September 22, 2023
- iPhone 16 — September 20, 2024
By understanding this history, buyers and businesses can anticipate when to prepare — but the confirmation of when does the iPhone 16 come out is always the spark that sets the tech world buzzing.
Final Thoughts
The question when does the iPhone 16 come out now has a definitive answer: September 20, 2024 for most regions, with a September 27 rollout in select markets. But this date is more than a simple product launch; it’s the start of a new chapter in mobile technology, powered by AI, faster chips, and smarter cameras.
If you’re upgrading, now is the time to prepare. Pre-order quickly, explore trade-in options, and consider which model and color best suit your needs. The iPhone 16 isn’t just a phone — it’s a statement of Apple’s vision for the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When does the iPhone 16 come out in the US?
The iPhone 16 will officially launch in the United States on September 20, 2024. If you’re asking when does the iPhone 16 come out in the US specifically, you can expect both in-store and online availability on this date, with pre-orders starting September 13.
Q2: When does the iPhone 16 come out for pre-order?
Pre-orders for the iPhone 16 begin on September 13, 2024. This is the first opportunity to secure your device before it sells out. Knowing when does the iPhone 16 come out for pre-orders ensures you can get your preferred color and storage size without waiting for restocks.
Q3: When does the iPhone 16 come out in Europe?
In most European countries, the iPhone 16 release date is September 20, 2024. However, certain smaller markets will see the release on September 27. If you’re in Europe and wondering when does the iPhone 16 come out, check Apple’s regional site for exact timing.
Q4: When does the iPhone 16 come out in India?
For Indian customers, the iPhone 16 will be available from September 27, 2024. While this is a week later than the global launch, pre-orders may still open around the same time as other regions. Many Indian buyers track when does the iPhone 16 come out to plan trade-ins and financing options.
Q5: When does the iPhone 16 come out with carrier plans?
Major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile in the US will offer the iPhone 16 starting September 20, 2024. If you’re wondering when does the iPhone 16 come out for carrier deals, most providers align with Apple’s global release date and often include promotions at launch.
Q6: When does the iPhone 16 come out in Apple retail stores?
Apple retail stores will have the iPhone 16 available for purchase and pickup on September 20, 2024 in the first wave of countries. If you want same-day pickup, knowing when does the iPhone 16 come out helps you book an in-store appointment as early as possible.
Q7: When does the iPhone 16 come out with iOS 18?
The iPhone 16 will ship with iOS 18 pre-installed on September 20, 2024. For those asking when does the iPhone 16 come out with the latest iOS, it’s part of the launch package — meaning you’ll get the newest features right out of the box.
Q8: When does the iPhone 16 come out for trade-in deals?
Trade-in programs from Apple and carriers typically begin on September 9, 2024, right after the announcement. This is important if you want to get the best value before the official launch. Knowing when does the iPhone 16 come out for trade-in programs ensures you don’t miss these higher-value windows.
