Calling all big-screen enthusiasts! News broke that the iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max models are getting a size boost, with the Pro Max reaching a whopping 6.9 inches. As someone who rejoiced at the large iPhone 13 Pro Max, I’m here to champion the cause of the “phablet” and debunk the myth that bigger phones are inherently bad.
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A Feast for the Eyes: The Big Screen Advantage
For me, the iPhone is more than just a phone – it’s a portal to entertainment, information, and connection. Whether I’m streaming videos, jotting down notes, scrolling through social media, or diving into Wikipedia rabbit holes, a larger display offers a richer experience. The iPhone 13 Pro Max already felt spacious compared to my previous iPhone 8, but I still crave that extra screen real estate for better readability and less eye strain.
The rumored 6.9-inch display of the iPhone 16 Pro Max sounds fantastic! While the difference in screen size measurements might seem minor on paper, the phone is expected to be noticeably taller. This translates to less scrolling and more information readily available at a glance – a huge win for those who, like me, loathe the endless scroll. This larger canvas would be perfect for video content consumption, and I imagine gamers would appreciate the expanded playing field as well.
Big Screen, Big Battery: A Match Made in Tech Heaven
Battery life was a primary factor in my decision to upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The constant anxiety of my phone dying before the end of the day, coupled with the hassle of carrying a power bank, was a thing of the past. The larger battery of the 13 Pro Max alleviated those concerns, allowing me to charge every other day (depending on usage). However, batteries do degrade over time, and the thought of an even bigger battery in the iPhone 16 Pro Max is simply electrifying.
Leaks suggest a 5% increase in battery capacity for the 16 Pro Max, reaching 4,676 mAh. While it might not seem like a massive jump, Apple is known for its battery optimization prowess. Even a modest increase, combined with their software expertise, could translate to a significant improvement in battery life. Here’s hoping those rumors hold true, or perhaps even point to an even bigger battery surprise!
Portability? Phones Were Big Already
Some might argue that a 6.9-inch phone presents a portability nightmare. But let’s be honest, phones have been steadily growing in size, and most jeans pockets are already struggling to accommodate them comfortably. Plus, carrying a phone in your pocket isn’t exactly the pinnacle of comfort.
I vividly remember the struggle of squeezing my tiny iPhone 8 into my pocket. The upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro Max rendered that pocket useless, but since I always carry a bag anyway, it wasn’t a major inconvenience. The benefits of a larger screen and potentially superior battery life far outweigh the slight compromise in terms of pocket real estate.
The iPhone 15 series already pushes the boundaries of pocket-friendliness, and the lighter titanium frame of the iPhone 15 Pro Max demonstrates Apple’s commitment to mitigating the weight factor. It’s safe to assume they’ll continue this trend with the 16 Pro Max, ensuring it doesn’t become an unwieldy behemoth. After all, Apple wouldn’t want to sacrifice user experience for sheer size.
The Great Size Divide: Compact vs. Big Screen
The phone world is divided into two camps: those who champion compact phones and those, like myself, who wouldn’t be caught dead with a small handset as our daily driver. Let’s address a couple of arguments for the compact phone and explain why they don’t resonate with me.
Compact Phone Pros (and Why They Don’t Apply to Me)
Comfort During Calls: In 2024, who still holds their phone directly to their ear for extended conversations? Earbuds are the way to go, eliminating the discomfort of holding a phone for long stretches. Whether I’m using AirPods in my ears, the speakerphone in my car, or my Mac for calls, a compact phone offers no real advantage here.
Easier One-Handed Typing: Even with small hands, I’ve always been a two-handed typer. It’s a habit that has stuck, so the extra screen real estate of a larger phone actually improves my typing experience.
The Future is (Probably) Big
While some might scoff at the idea of an even bigger iPhone, I believe it’s a positive step forward. For those who prefer a smaller form factor, the iPhone Pro remains an option.
