iPhone 16 Leak Confirms New Devices Coming with Same Chip

Newly discovered code in Apple’s backend, found by Nicolás Alvarez and shared with MacRumors, has seemingly confirmed the tech giant’s plan to release four iPhone 16 models this year, all equipped with the same A-series chip.

The code includes references to new model numbers that align with Apple’s flagship device numbering scheme but are not associated with any current iPhones.

The discovered identifiers for the iPhone 16 models are as follows: iPhone17,1; iPhone17,2; iPhone17,3; iPhone17,4; and iPhone17,5. The consistent prefix suggests that Apple intends to use the same chip across these models. In contrast, the iPhone 15 lineup features different chips, resulting in varied internal identifiers.

For instance, current iPhone 15 models, which are powered by the A16 Bionic chip first introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro, have identifiers like iPhone 15,4 for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15,5 for the iPhone 15 Plus. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, equipped with the A17 Pro chip, are identified as iPhone 16,1 and iPhone 16,2, respectively.

Historically, Apple has linked device identifiers to their respective chips. Devices with the A16 chip bear identifiers starting with 15, those with the A15 chip start with 14, and so on. Following this pattern, the new iPhone 16 models are expected to share the same chip, which aligns with recent rumours and leaks indicating a unified chip for the upcoming devices.

Interestingly, while the code lists five model numbers, only four are likely to be part of the iPhone 16 lineup. The fifth identifier could potentially belong to a future iPhone SE. The iPhone SE is due for a major cosmetic upgrade.

Although all four iPhone 16 models are anticipated to feature the new A18 chip, Apple might still differentiate between standard and Pro models. This could involve naming variations such as A18 and A18 Pro, with the latter boasting a higher number of GPU cores.

Unifying the chip across all iPhone 16 models and a potential future iPhone SE would ensure all devices will be able to support Apple Intelligence features set to debut in iOS 18. Currently, only the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max support Apple Intelligence, alongside iPads and Macs with M1 chips or newer. You’ll need to upgrade if you want the latest AI features from Apple. The question remains whether Apple will be able to force you to open your wallet or not…