Ookla recently conducted extensive 5G speed and latency tests for the newly released iPhone 16 series. The results reveal impressive performance gains compared to previous iPhone generations and key competitors, including the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. This performance boost is particularly noticeable in key markets like the United States and Canada.
The Speedtest data, gathered across 11 countries, highlights the iPhone 16’s superior speed and latency compared to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15. While the comparison with the Samsung Galaxy S24 yielded mixed results, the iPhone 16 series consistently performed well.
In five of the 11 countries tested, the iPhone 16 series demonstrated a statistically significant advantage in median 5G download speeds. The Samsung Galaxy S24 family, however, achieved the lowest median 5G multiserver latency in eight countries. The iPhone 16 lineup led in 5G latency in only one market.
iPhone 16 US 5G Speed Test Results
The Galaxy S24 series excelled in median 5G upload speeds in eight of the 11 countries, while the iPhone 14 and 15 models generally recorded the slowest upload speeds. This reveals an area where Apple still has room for improvement.
iPhone 16 Mexico 5G Speed Test Results
The iPhone 16 models showed significant speed advantages over previous-generation Apple and Samsung devices in several markets, including Canada, France, Taiwan, and, importantly, the U.S. In the U.S., the iPhone 16 achieved a median download speed of 324Mbps, surpassing the Galaxy S24’s 287Mbps. A similar trend was observed in Canada, where the iPhone 16 reached 182Mbps compared to the Galaxy S24’s 156Mbps.
iPhone 16 Canada 5G Speed Test Results
The speed and latency tests were conducted between September 20 (the iPhone 16’s release date) and October 20 across a diverse range of countries: the U.S., India, Taiwan, Belgium, France, Germany, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Colombia, and Brazil. This broad geographical scope provides valuable insights into the iPhone 16’s 5G performance in various network environments.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Comparison
With Black Friday approaching, Ookla suggests these results indicate a worthwhile upgrade for users seeking optimal 5G performance, particularly in specific countries. The iPhone 16’s strong performance makes a compelling argument for upgrading. However, Ookla also acknowledges that the decision to upgrade should consider factors beyond network performance, such as price and new features.
The iPhone 16 series, comprising the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, marks the debut of Apple Intelligence on iPhones. All models feature the innovative Camera Control and other enhancements. This combination of cutting-edge technology and impressive 5G performance positions the iPhone 16 series as a strong contender in the premium smartphone market.
