Now that the iPhone 16 has officially launched, many are still wondering: will my iPhone 15 case fit the new iPhone 16? Unfortunately, the answer is no. As expected, Apple’s new model brings subtle, yet crucial changes that make case compatibility an issue. Let’s explore the specs and see why your old case won't work with the new model. Quick links What we know about the new iPhone 16? Detailed comparison of iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models Why size isn't the only factor affecting case compatibility? Choosing an eco-friendly case for your new iPhone 16 What to do with your old iPhone 15 case? What we know about the new iPhone 16? The iPhone 16 is finally here, and we have concrete details! Here are the key updates that will impact your case compatibility: New iPhone 16 size: Even though some iPhone 16 models look almost identical in size, the new dimensions, though minimal, still matter for case fit. Button placement: The shift in button placement is no longer just a rumour - it’s confirmed. This slight adjustment means your iPhone 15 case might block essential buttons. Camera: Apple has once again tweaked the camera module. This change in layout means your old case is not going to provide the proper fit or protection. If you're a fan of taking photos, this could be exciting - just not for your old case. These are just a few of the confirmed details that make a case upgrade inevitable. Detailed comparison of iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models Here's a closer look at the dimensions and why your old case will not fit the new iPhone 16 models: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 Model Height Width Depth iPhone 15 147.6 mm 71.6 mm 7.8 mm iPhone 16 147.6 mm 71.6 mm 7.8 mm At first glance, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 appear nearly identical. However, even minor changes in button placement and camera layout will make your iPhone 15 case unusable, which is the case with the iPhone 16. It introduces a new vertical camera design with support for Spatial Video, replacing the diagonal layout found on the iPhone 15. As a result, you’ll need an iPhone 16 case to ensure proper fit and protection for the new camera system. iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro Model Height Width Depth iPhone 15 Pro 146.6 mm 70.6 mm 8.25 mm iPhone 16 Pro 149.6 mm 71.5 mm 8.25 mm The iPhone 16 Pro shows a more noticeable size difference from the 15 Pro, with an increase of 3 mm in height and almost 1 mm in width. These changes mean you’ll need an iPhone 16 Pro case for the best fit. Despite these changes in height and width, the depth of both models remains consistent. iPhone 16 Pro Max vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max Model Height Width Depth iPhone 15 Pro Max 159.9 mm 76.7 mm 8.25 mm iPhone 16 Pro Max 163 mm 77.6 mm 8.25 mm The iPhone 16 Pro Max is larger in every way, and while the depth remains the same, the increased height and width make an iPhone 16 Pro Max case essential. These size changes might make the phone feel a bit more substantial in your hand, offering a better viewing experience on its larger screen. iPhone 16 Plus vs. iPhone 15 Plus Model Height Width Depth iPhone 15 Plus 160.9 mm 77.8 mm 7.8 mm iPhone 16 Plus 160.9 mm 77.8 mm 7.8 mm Well, the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus might seem similar, especially with their matching screen sizes. However, one of the most striking differences is the updated vertical camera layout, which now supports Spatial Video. This change from the iPhone 15 Plus' diagonal camera suggests a focus on improving video capabilities.While both models feature dual cameras, the positioning change signifies that your old iPhone 15 Plus case won’t fit properly due to these structural differences. So, if you're upgrading to the iPhone 16 Plus, make sure to pair it with an iPhone 16 Plus case that accommodates the new layout and dimensions. Why size isn't the only factor affecting case compatibility? While the size difference between some of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models may be minimal, it's crucial to consider other factors that influence case compatibility: Button placement Even a slight shift in the button layout can render your old case useless. Buttons need to align perfectly to ensure functionality, and any misalignment can lead to difficulty in using the device efficiently. Camera placement New camera designs often mean a repositioning of the camera module. Your iPhone 15 case may obstruct the new camera or fail to protect it adequately. Ports and connectors Changes in the location, size, or type of ports can impact whether an old case will fit a new phone model. For example, if the new iPhone 16 model has a new charging port location or an extra port, the cutouts in an iPhone 15 case might not match up, causing problems with access and functionality. Also, any changes to the speaker or microphone placements can affect sound quality if the case doesn't fit these changes properly. Choosing an eco-friendly case for your new iPhone 16 Since you need to buy a new case, why not make it eco-friendly? Most phone cases on the market are made from conventional plastics, which are derived from fossil fuels and take hundreds of years to decompose. Imagine your phone case outlasting you, your grandkids, and maybe even the pyramids! This contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution, which affects wildlife, oceans, and human health. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans, causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. That bottle you threw away could be taking a scenic tour through the ocean for centuries. Eco-friendly phone cases are made from sustainable materials that break down much faster than traditional plastics and have a lower environmental impact. Look for cases made from recycled or renewable resources which are designed to break down naturally over time or under the right conditions such as industrial composting. What to do with your old iPhone 15 case? Upgrading to the new iPhone 16 means you might be left wondering what to do with your old iPhone 15 case. Here are some eco-friendly and practical options. Recycle it Many local recycling programs accept phone cases, especially if they are made from recyclable materials. Check with your local recycling centre to see if they accept phone cases and follow their guidelines for recycling. Donate it If your old case is still in good condition, consider donating it. Schools, shelters, or local community centres might accept phone cases for those in need. Donating is a great way to give your case a second life and help someone else protect their phone. Sell it List your old case on online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or local selling apps. Someone with an iPhone 15 might be looking for a case, and you can make a little extra cash while extending the life of your product. Use agood loop™ If you purchased your iPhone 15 case from us, take advantage of our agood loop™ program. Simply send your old case back to us, and we'll ensure it's recycled properly or repurposed into new products. As a thank you for participating in our sustainability efforts, you will receive a discount on your next purchase. Final thoughts The iPhone 16 is here, and while it brings exciting new features, case compatibility is one area where you’ll need to make a change. Now is the perfect time to consider making a sustainable purchase. An eco-friendly phone case ensures your new device is well-protected and aligns with your environmental values. Get ready for your new iPhone 16 with a clear conscience, knowing you've made a choice that benefits both you and the planet.