How does the iPhone 16's chipset compare to previous models for spatial video processing

A18 Chip Across the Lineup

- All iPhone 16 models are rumored to be powered by the new A18 chip, unlike the iPhone 15 series which had different chips for the standard and Pro models[4].
- This suggests Apple is prioritizing spatial video capabilities across the entire iPhone 16 lineup.

Enhanced AI and Machine Learning Performance

- The A18 chip is expected to provide more efficient machine learning and AI performance, especially on the Pro models which may get an upgraded Neural Processing Unit (NPU)[1].
- Improved on-device AI processing will be crucial for spatial video capture and computational photography.

Potential for 4K Spatial Video

- The iPhone 15 Pro is limited to 1080p spatial video due to the 12MP resolution of the ultra-wide camera[2].
- However, the iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to feature a 48MP ultra-wide sensor, which could enable 4K spatial video recording[2].
- This would require the A18 chip to have enough processing power to handle the increased resolution and data.

Larger Die Area

- The A18 chip may have a larger die area compared to the A17, allowing for additional transistors or specialized hardware[5].
- This extra space could be used to optimize spatial video processing and other AI-related tasks.

In summary, the A18 chip's presence across the iPhone 16 lineup, combined with potential improvements in AI performance, sensor resolutions, and die area, suggests Apple is making significant strides in enabling high-quality spatial video capture on its upcoming smartphones. This aligns with the company's focus on spatial computing and the upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset.