Section 1.1: Size and Handling

Switching from the 13 Pro Max to the 14 Pro meant sacrificing some screen size. I opted for the smaller model to enhance portability and ease of handling. Despite the reduced screen real estate, I find usability remains strong; reading articles and consuming content is still straightforward. Additionally, I often use my iPad Pro for larger displays, so the Pro Max's size was less crucial.

Section 1.2: Display Quality

The display on the iPhone 14 Pro is impressive. Featuring a 120Hz refresh rate akin to the 13 Pro and Pro Max, it offers a smooth user experience. I can't imagine going back to a device without such a refresh rate, as it significantly enhances the enjoyment of social media and web browsing.

The screen can reach an astonishing brightness of 2000 nits, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight. To conserve battery life, it's wise to keep adaptive brightness activated, as the screen can be overwhelmingly bright at night.

Section 1.3: Always-On Display Feature

Having an always-on display is a feature that Android users have enjoyed for some time, and I was eager to see it on the iPhone—though only on the Pro models. The implementation differs from Android, which required some adjustment on my part. I appreciate that the lock screen image remains visible, albeit dimmed.

While I hoped for a notification count similar to Android, the display shows notifications in the traditional manner, which is acceptable. Some reviews mentioned that users initially thought their phones were unlocked due to the display's nature, which could be distracting. However, I personally have not experienced this issue; it's simply a matter of getting accustomed to it.

Section 1.4: The Dynamic Island

The Dynamic Island was an unexpected yet intriguing feature that replaced the traditional notch. I find it a clever way to utilize space for displaying information. It's particularly handy when listening to music, allowing me to see album art and waveforms.

I wish there was a way to quickly access controls through a short press on the Dynamic Island, similar to the lock screen. Currently, I often want to see the controls rather than return to the app. This feature also conveniently displays timers, volume control, and call information. As more third-party apps integrate with it, I anticipate additional functionalities, such as notifications appearing here rather than as banners.

Section 1.5: Camera Capabilities

Typically, I don't delve deeply into camera performance, but this time I wanted to assess the iPhone 14 Pro's camera quality for my blog and social media platforms, comparing it to my Canon M50 II. So far, I'm impressed; it stands up well for the type of content I create.

Even with the 48-megapixel feature turned off, the images are sharp and satisfying for unedited photos. For Instagram posts, I switch to ProRaw to utilize the camera's full potential. The improved cinematic mode for video recording has made my workflow smoother, allowing me to create reels directly on my phone without the hassle of transferring files.

Section 2.1: Battery Performance

The battery life on my iPhone 14 Pro isn't quite as impressive as the 13 Pro Max, but this is expected due to the smaller form factor. Initially, I found myself running low on battery by bedtime, likely due to my excitement with the new device. However, I've noticed improvements over the past week, typically ending the day with around 30% battery remaining.

While it doesn't last as long as the 13 Pro Max's two-day battery life, it's still decent. As I charge my phone overnight, this isn't a significant concern.

Section 2.2: Pricing Considerations

The iPhone 14 Pro is priced at £1,099, making it pricier than the iPhone 13 Pro. It's essential to weigh this cost when contemplating an upgrade. If you already own the 13 Pro, it might be wise to hold off unless your mobile provider offers an upgrade.