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It’s nearly that time of year again. Apple is widely expected to launch the iPhone 16 in the next couple of months, likely with a keynote event before a general release a week or so later. In this post, we’ll reveal the expected iPhone 16 launch date, what to expect from the launch keynote and when you can actually get your hands on the latest iPhone.

In this blog

• When is the iPhone 16 launch date?
• How will Apple launch the iPhone 16?
• What should I expect from the launch event?
• When can I buy the iPhone 16?
• How should I prepare for the iPhone 16?
• Where can I find out more about the iPhone 16?

When is the iPhone 16 launch date?

Apple hasn’t announced the final launch date, but we can take an informed guess based on the launch pattern they’ve followed since 2012.

Every iPhone launched in the past 10 years has been unveiled in September, except the iPhone 12 (delayed due to COVID-19) and the non-flagship iPhone SE range. So, barring a last minute surprise, it’s almost 100% certain the iPhone 16 will arrive in September 2024.

We can even take a decent guess at an actual date. Apple almost always holds the iPhone keynote on the 2nd or 3rd Tuesday or Wednesday of September, so the most likely dates for the iPhone 16 keynote event are the 10th or 11th September.

How will Apple launch the iPhone 16?

Apple typically launches the iPhone 16 in a slick keynote event. This used to be an in-person event but, since the COVID-19 pandemic, the ‘event’ is now more of a feature-length film detailing Apple’s latest products. The event streams live on Apple’s website from around 5 or 6pm UK time.

What should I expect from the iPhone 16 keynote event?

Well, we’re pretty certain we’ll see the iPhone 16… although you’ll have to wait until the end to actually see it. The range is rumoured to consist of a standard iPhone 16 model, the iPhone 16 Plus, the iPhone 16 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Aside from that, rumoured devices include a 10th anniversary Apple Watch (tentatively named ‘Apple Watch X’), a new Apple Watch Ultra and the AirPods 4.

When can I buy the iPhone 16?

Pre-orders for the latest iPhone generally open on the Friday after the keynote event, with the device itself available to buy the following Friday. Apple’s release schedule has been fairly consistent over the years (with a few exceptions), as you can see below:

With all that considered, we’re pretty confident the iPhone 16 range will be available to buy from Friday 20th September.

How should I prepare for the iPhone 16?

Let’s be honest: the iPhone isn’t cheap. The good news is we’re here to help make it more affordable with our fast, easy way to trade in your old iPhone!

It’s easy. Just get an instant price on the night of the keynote and complete your order to lock in your valuation for 21 days. That means you’ll get 21 days to send your phone to us, giving you plenty of time to get your new iPhone and set it up before sending your old one. As soon as your iPhone arrives at our warehouse, we’ll check it over and pay you the same day.

Where can I find out more about the iPhone 16?

Check out our iPhone 16 rumours page for all the details you need. Here are a few posts that take a deeper-dive into what we can expect from the iPhone 16 too:

• iPhone 16 Pro Max camera: how does it compare?
• Breaking down the iPhone 16 Pro’s features: what to expect
• iPhone 16 storage options: which size is right for you?
• Unveiling the iPhone 16: rumoured design, colours and specifications

Excited for the iPhone 16? Remember to make your upgrade cheaper by trading in your old phone with us! You’ll get extra cash for your upgrade and, because we’ll refurbish or recycle your phone, it’s better for the planet too. You can sell iPhone 15, sell iPhone 14 and much more. Selling an older iPhone? Head over to our sell iPhone page to see the full range of iPhone models you can sell.