Predicting the exact specifications of the upcoming iPhone 16 series can be challenging until we start seeing some leaks. However, guessing the release date is much easier, thanks to Apple’s consistent launch patterns.
Although there haven’t been any specific leaks about the iPhone 16 release date yet, we can make a pretty educated guess based on previous years. This includes the expected launch for the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
iPhone 16 Release Date
Apple typically announces new iPhones in September. For instance, the iPhone 15 series was unveiled on September 12, 2023. Generally, Apple tends to make these announcements either in the first or second week of September, usually on a Tuesday. So, the most likely announcement dates for the iPhone 16 are September 3 or September 10.
Occasionally, Apple holds its events on a Wednesday, making September 4 and September 11 possible announcement dates. While it’s possible Apple could deviate from this pattern, such as with the October launch of the iPhone 12 series, this seems unlikely this year as iPhone 16 production is reportedly on schedule.
iPhone 16 Pre-Order Dates
Once Apple announces the new iPhones, pre-orders typically open on the Friday of the same week. Therefore, if Apple announces the iPhone 16 on September 3 or 4, pre-orders will likely start on September 6. If the announcement is on September 10 or 11, then pre-orders would probably begin on September 13.
These pre-order predictions are based on the assumption that our announcement date predictions are correct. If Apple chooses a different date for the announcement, the pre-order dates will also shift accordingly.
Availability and Shipping Dates
Apple generally follows a consistent timeline for when its new phones start shipping and are available for purchase, usually about a week after pre-orders begin. If pre-orders start on September 6, the iPhone 16 will likely go on sale on Friday, September 13. Similarly, if pre-orders begin on September 13, the phones should be available by September 20.
Again, these dates assume our earlier predictions are accurate. Any deviation in the announcement or pre-order dates would affect the shipping dates as well.
Potential Delays
Based on previous trends, we expect all four models to be announced simultaneously and likely to ship at the same time. The only exception might be if Apple encounters production issues, similar to what happened with the iPhone 12 series when the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max were delayed by almost a month.
Currently, there are no reports of production problems with the iPhone 16 series, so we don’t anticipate any delays at this point.
By following Apple’s historical patterns, these predictions offer a good estimate of when we might see the iPhone 16 series officially announced, available for pre-order, and finally on sale. Stay tuned for more updates as the expected launch date approaches!