Every new iPhone model comes with its own distinct wallpaper, but a playful hidden detail has been uncovered in the official wallpapers for the iPhone 16.
While the individual wallpapers may not reveal their secret at first glance, they become much clearer when displayed together in a comparison tool on Apple’s website.
As John Gruber points out, the wallpapers cleverly correspond to the number of camera lenses on each iPhone model.
Here’s a neat detail: the default wallpapers for each device subtly reflect the count of camera lenses integrated into the phones.
This discovery is one of those enjoyable surprises Apple likes to weave into its products. Similar to the concept of “easter eggs”—features or details that only reveal themselves under specific conditions—this particular secret is literally hiding in plain sight.
Discussing the camera setup, Gruber measured the thickness of the three iPhone models at various points. Notably, the iPhone 16e distinguishes itself by not having a raised camera module, a feature Gruber likens to a mesa—a term used to describe a flat-topped landform.
The iPhone 16e entirely omits the mesa design, and the thickness of its camera module, from the lens to the front display, is actually less than the thickness at the mesas of both the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro, without factoring in their lenses.
This minimalist design gives the rear of the phone a sleeker appearance. However, it’s interesting to note that the upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to adopt a completely different approach, featuring a prominent raised bar across its back.
