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Review of the iPhone 7 Plus

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Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

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Review of the iPhone 7 Plus

Brief Introduction (150 words)The iPhone 7 Plus, announced on September 7, 2016, by Apple Inc., marked a significant evolution in Apple’s smartphone lineup. Launched as the larger sibling to the iPhone 7, it introduced groundbreaking features like a dual-camera system, water resistance, and the controversial removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack. Released on September 16, 2016, this flagship device from the United States targeted premium users with its 5.5-inch Retina HD display, powerful A10 Fusion chip, and enhanced battery life. Available in Jet Black, Black, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold, and later (PRODUCT)RED, it offered style and performance. Its iOS 10 operating system brought fluid software integration within Apple’s ecosystem. Despite criticism for its dated design and lack of headphone jack, the iPhone 7 Plus set a new standard for photography and durability. For more details, visit: https://www.apple.com.Country of OriginUnited StatesManufacturerApple Inc.Web Linkhttps://www.apple.comDifferent Colors

Jet Black
Black (Matte)
Silver
Gold
Rose Gold
(PRODUCT)RED (introduced March 2017)

Year, Date AnnouncedSeptember 7, 2016Date Available for PurchaseSeptember 16, 2016Charger TypeLightning connector (5W USB power adapter included)Battery Charge TimeApproximately 3 to 3.5 hours for a full charge with the included 5W charger.Display (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus features a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, delivering a pixel density of 401 ppi. This LED-backlit IPS LCD panel offers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, enhanced by a wide color gamut (P3) for richer, more accurate hues compared to the iPhone 6s Plus. With a peak brightness of around 625 nits, it’s 25% brighter than its predecessor, ensuring decent visibility in sunlight, though it lags behind modern OLED displays like those on the Samsung Galaxy S7. The display supports 3D Touch, allowing pressure-sensitive interactions for quick actions, such as app shortcuts. Its 1300:1 contrast ratio provides deep blacks for an LCD, but it’s not as immersive as AMOLED panels. Ion-strengthened glass, paired with an oleophobic coating, resists scratches and smudges, though it’s less durable than later Gorilla Glass versions. Critics noted the large top and bottom bezels, which made the device feel dated compared to slimmer-bezel competitors like the Google Pixel. Overall, the display excels for media consumption and productivity but shows its age against 2025 standards.Processor (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus is powered by Apple’s A10 Fusion chipset, a 16nm quad-core processor clocked at 2.34 GHz. This chip, built by TSMC, features two high-performance “Hurricane” cores and two high-efficiency “Zephyr” cores, utilizing big.LITTLE architecture for optimized power management. With 3GB of LPDDR4 RAM, it’s 50% faster than the A9 in the iPhone 6s Plus, delivering a Geekbench 4 score of around 3500 (single-core) and 6000 (multi-core). The A10’s integrated six-core GPU enhances graphics performance by 50%, supporting smooth gaming and 4K video editing. Compared to the Snapdragon 820 in the Galaxy S7, the A10 offers superior single-core performance, though it trails slightly in multi-core tasks. Its 64-bit architecture and embedded M10 motion coprocessor handle tasks like fitness tracking efficiently. The chip’s efficiency reduces thermal throttling, maintaining performance during extended use. While outclassed by 2025’s A18 Bionic, the A10 Fusion was a 2016 powerhouse, enabling seamless multitasking and future-proofing the device for iOS updates through 2023.

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Performance (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus delivers robust performance, driven by the A10 Fusion chip and 3GB RAM. It handles daily tasks—browsing, streaming, and social media—with no lag, even on iOS 15.8.3, the final supported version. Gaming performance is impressive, running titles like Pokémon GO and Asphalt 8 at high settings with stable frame rates, thanks to the six-core GPU. Benchmark tests show it outperforming the Galaxy S7 (Snapdragon 820) by 10-15% in single-core tasks, though multi-core performance is closer. Multitasking is fluid, with the extra RAM (compared to the iPhone 7’s 2GB) supporting the dual-camera system and split-screen apps. However, heavy workloads, like 4K video editing, can cause minor slowdowns compared to newer devices like the iPhone 11. The Taptic Engine enhances haptic feedback, making interactions feel precise. While the device feels snappy for its age, it struggles with modern AI-driven apps and lacks the raw power of 2025 flagships. For 2016, its performance was class-leading, and it remains capable for basic to moderate use today.

Camera System (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus introduced Apple’s first dual-camera system, a 12MP wide-angle lens (f/1.8, 28mm, 1/3” sensor) with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 12MP telephoto lens (f/2.8, 56mm, 1/3.6” sensor) offering 2x optical zoom. This setup, paired with a quad-LED True Tone flash, captures sharp, vibrant photos, even in low light, with 50% more light sensitivity than the iPhone 6s Plus. The telephoto lens enables Portrait Mode, using software to create a bokeh effect, a feature exclusive to the Plus model at launch. The 7MP front camera (f/2.2) supports Retina Flash for better selfies. The Apple-designed image signal processor (ISP) processes 100 billion operations in 25ms, enhancing focus, exposure, and noise reduction. Compared to the Galaxy S7’s single 12MP sensor, the iPhone’s dual lenses offer superior zoom and depth effects, though low-light performance slightly lags. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps with OIS, delivering cinematic quality. While outdated by 2025 standards, the camera system was revolutionary, setting the stage for modern smartphone photography.

Battery (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus houses a 2900mAh non-removable Li-Ion battery, an improvement over the iPhone 6s Plus’s 2750mAh. Apple claimed up to 21 hours of talk time, 13 hours of internet use, and 60 hours of audio playback, offering about an hour more usage than its predecessor. In real-world tests, it lasts a full day of moderate use—web browsing, calls, and light gaming—with 20-30% charge remaining. Heavy users, like those streaming or gaming, may need a mid-day top-up. Compared to the Galaxy S7 Edge’s 3600mAh battery, it’s smaller but benefits from iOS’s optimization, matching or exceeding rivals in efficiency. The battery’s longevity is notable, with minimal degradation after 500 cycles, though 2025 devices like the iPhone 16 offer larger capacities. No wireless charging is a drawback, as competitors like Samsung included it. The battery’s IP67 rating ensures durability against water exposure. While not exceptional by today’s standards, the iPhone 7 Plus’s battery was among the best in 2016, balancing power and efficiency.

Charging (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus uses a Lightning connector for charging, bundled with a 5W USB power adapter. A full charge takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, slower than competitors like the Galaxy S7, which supported 15W fast charging. The 2900mAh battery charges to 50% in about 1.5 hours, but the lack of fast charging is a notable limitation, as Apple didn’t introduce it until the iPhone 8. No wireless charging is supported, unlike rivals with Qi-standard support. The included Lightning cable is durable but proprietary, limiting third-party options. Users can opt for a 12W iPad charger (sold separately) to reduce charge time to around 2.5 hours, but this isn’t officially advertised. The charging system prioritizes battery health, with iOS managing heat and overcharge risks, contributing to long-term battery longevity. Compared to 2025’s 35W charging on the iPhone 16, the 7 Plus feels outdated. However, for 2016, the reliable, if slow, charging system met basic needs, and the Lightning port’s versatility (supporting audio and data) added value.

Connectivity (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus supports LTE Advanced, offering download speeds up to 450Mbps on compatible networks, a step up from the iPhone 6s Plus’s 300Mbps. It includes a broad range of LTE bands (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30), ensuring global compatibility. Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with MIMO provides faster, more stable connections than single-antenna rivals. Bluetooth 4.2 supports low-energy devices like AirPods, though it lacks the range of Bluetooth 5.0 in newer models. NFC is included for Apple Pay, and Japan-specific models feature FeliCa for local contactless payments. The removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack forces reliance on Lightning or Bluetooth audio, a controversial choice. GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo ensure accurate navigation. Compared to the Galaxy S7’s similar LTE and Wi-Fi specs, the iPhone’s signal strength and call quality are marginally better. While outdated by 2025’s Wi-Fi 7 and 5G standards, the iPhone 7 Plus’s connectivity was robust, supporting seamless global use.

Operating System (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus launched with iOS 10, introducing features like a redesigned lock screen, richer notifications, and improved Messages with stickers and effects. It’s upgradable to iOS 15.8.3, the final update released in 2023, which includes security patches but lacks modern features like Dynamic Island or Apple Intelligence found in iOS 18. iOS 10’s fluid animations and deep integration with Apple services (iCloud, Apple Music) ensured a polished experience, with 3D Touch enabling quick actions. Compared to Android 7.0 on the Galaxy S7, iOS offered better optimization and fewer bloatware issues, though less customization. The A10 Fusion chip keeps iOS 15 responsive, but newer apps may strain performance. Regular updates from 2016 to 2023 provided longevity, outpacing many Android peers. Siri, while improved, lagged behind Google Assistant in 2016. The lack of a headphone jack pushed users toward AirPods, enhancing iOS’s wireless ecosystem. While iOS 15.8.3 feels dated in 2025, the iPhone 7 Plus’s software was a benchmark for reliability and ecosystem cohesion in its era.

Build (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus features a unibody aluminum (7000-series) construction, offering durability and a premium feel. Measuring 158.2 x 77.9 x 7.3 mm and weighing 188 grams, it’s slightly heavier than the iPhone 6s Plus but maintains a sleek profile. The IP67 rating, a first for iPhones, ensures water resistance up to 1 meter for 30 minutes and dust protection, surpassing the Galaxy S7’s IP68 in marketing but not depth. Ion-strengthened glass covers the display, with an oleophobic coating reducing smudges, though it’s prone to scratches without a protector. The removal of the headphone jack allowed space for a larger Taptic Engine and improved water sealing, though it sparked debate. Antenna bands are less obtrusive, curving along the edges for a cleaner look. The capacitive home button, paired with Touch ID, is responsive and durable. Compared to the glass-backed iPhone 8, the aluminum build is less slippery but less modern. The build quality is robust, with no creaks, but the large bezels and single bottom speaker feel dated by 2025 standards.

Design (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus’s design refines the iPhone 6s Plus, retaining its rounded aluminum unibody but introducing new aesthetics. Available in Jet Black (glossy, prone to scratches), Matte Black, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold, and (PRODUCT)RED, it offers versatility, with Jet Black’s seamless look being a standout. The 5.5-inch display is flanked by large bezels, criticized for making the phone bulkier than competitors like the Galaxy S7 Edge with similar screen sizes. The redesigned antenna bands blend into the chassis, enhancing visual appeal. The capacitive home button, replacing the physical one, uses Taptic Engine feedback for a tactile feel. The dual-camera bump, while functional, protrudes noticeably. At 7.3mm thick, it’s slim but not as thin as 2025’s iPhone 17 Air. The removal of the headphone jack streamlines the bottom edge, housing stereo speakers for improved audio. While elegant for 2016, the design’s thick bezels and lack of edge-to-edge display feel outdated compared to modern flagships. Its ergonomic grip and premium finish, however, remain appealing for fans of classic iPhone aesthetics.

Additional Features (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus introduced several standout features. Its IP67 water and dust resistance, a first for iPhones, allows submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, matching many 2016 competitors. The Taptic Engine powers a pressure-sensitive home button and 3D Touch, enabling contextual menus and haptic feedback for immersive interactions. Stereo speakers, located at the top and bottom, deliver twice the volume of the iPhone 6s Plus, enhancing media playback, though they lack the bass of modern devices. Touch ID, integrated into the home button, offers fast, secure unlocking and Apple Pay authentication. The dual-camera system supports Portrait Mode, a software-driven bokeh effect, exclusive to the Plus model. Japan-specific models include FeliCa for contactless payments. The M10 motion coprocessor tracks fitness data accurately, syncing with HealthKit. However, the removal of the headphone jack, replaced by a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter, frustrated users reliant on wired audio. Compared to the Galaxy S7’s wireless charging and microSD slot, the iPhone 7 Plus lacks some versatility but excels in ecosystem-driven features, setting a foundation for future iPhones.

Software (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus shipped with iOS 10, a polished OS with a revamped lock screen, interactive notifications, and an enhanced Messages app featuring animations and stickers. Upgradable to iOS 15.8.3 (final update in 2023), it supports core apps but misses modern features like Apple Intelligence or iOS 18’s customization. iOS 10’s 3D Touch integration allows quick actions, such as previewing emails or accessing app shortcuts, leveraging the A10 Fusion’s efficiency. Siri, while improved, was less advanced than Google Assistant in 2016. The software’s optimization ensures smooth performance, even on iOS 15, with minimal lag for browsing or light gaming. iCloud integration enables seamless backups and cross-device syncing, a hallmark of Apple’s ecosystem. Compared to Android 7.0 on the Galaxy S7, iOS offers less customization but superior longevity, with over six years of updates. Security features, like encrypted backups and Touch ID, remain robust. While the software feels dated in 2025, lacking support for newer APIs or AI tools, it was a benchmark for reliability and user experience in 2016, maintaining usability for basic tasks today.

Ecosystem (200+ words)The iPhone 7 Plus thrives within Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem, a key selling point in 2016. Running iOS 10 (upgradable to iOS 15.8.3), it syncs effortlessly with devices like the MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, and AirPods via iCloud, enabling features like Handoff, Continuity, and universal clipboard for seamless task transitions. Apple Pay, supported by NFC and Touch ID, offers secure payments, with Japan-specific FeliCa integration for local services. iCloud ensures automatic backups, photo syncing, and Find My functionality across devices. The App Store provides access to millions of optimized apps, from productivity tools to games, with better curation than Android’s Play Store in 2016. AirPods, launched alongside the iPhone 7 Plus, pair instantly, enhancing the wireless audio experience post-headphone jack removal. Compared to Samsung’s fragmented ecosystem, Apple’s cohesive integration delivers a smoother user experience. However, the closed ecosystem limits compatibility with non-Apple devices, unlike Android’s flexibility. While less expansive than 2025’s ecosystem with Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 7 Plus’s ecosystem remains a strong draw for users invested in Apple’s platform, ensuring longevity and convenience.

Sustainability (200+ words)Apple emphasized sustainability with the iPhone 7 Plus, though its efforts were modest by 2025 standards. The device uses recyclable aluminum for its body and mercury-free displays, reducing environmental impact. Apple’s renewable energy-powered assembly plants, primarily through Foxconn in China, lowered production emissions. The removal of the headphone jack aimed to reduce electronic waste by pushing wireless audio, though the included Lightning adapter offset this. Apple’s trade-in and recycling programs encouraged device reuse, with refurbished units extending the phone’s lifecycle. However, the non-removable 2900mAh battery and glued-in components made repairs challenging, earning a low iFixit repairability score of 7/10. Compared to 2025’s iPhone 17 with modular designs and biodegradable materials, the 7 Plus lags. Apple’s commitment to phasing out hazardous substances, like PVC and BFRs, was industry-leading in 2016. The device’s durability, with IP67 resistance and robust build, reduces replacement frequency. While Apple reported carbon-neutral goals for its supply chain by 2030, the iPhone 7 Plus’s production predates these ambitions. Its sustainability was progressive for 2016 but limited by repairability and reliance on mined materials like cobalt.

Production NumbersExact production numbers for the iPhone 7 Plus are not publicly disclosed by Apple. However, Strategy Analytics reported that 17.4 million iPhone 7 Plus units were sold in Q1 2017 alone, with total iPhone 7 and 7 Plus sales estimated at over 100 million units by 2019. Assuming a 40% share for the Plus model, approximately 40-50 million iPhone 7 Plus units were likely produced by the time it was discontinued in September 2019.

Pros

Dual-Camera System: Pioneering Portrait Mode and 2x optical zoom.
Water Resistance: IP67 rating for durability.
Long Software Support: Updates until iOS 15.8.3 (2023).
Powerful A10 Fusion: Smooth performance for its era.
Ecosystem Integration: Seamless connectivity with Apple devices.

Cons

No Headphone Jack: Forces reliance on adapters or wireless audio.
Large Bezels: Dated design compared to 2016 competitors.
Slow Charging: 5W charger takes over 3 hours.
No Wireless Charging: Lags behind rivals like Galaxy S7.
Limited Customization: iOS less flexible than Android.

Best Features

Portrait Mode: Software-driven bokeh effect for professional photos.
IP67 Water Resistance: Survives splashes and brief submersion.
A10 Fusion Chip: Delivers fast, efficient performance.
Stereo Speakers: Twice as loud as iPhone 6s Plus.
3D Touch: Pressure-sensitive display for quick actions.

Negative Features

Headphone Jack Removal: Inconvenient for wired audio users.
Bulky Design: Large bezels increase footprint.
Slow 5W Charging: Outpaced by competitors’ fast charging.
No Wireless Charging: Misses a 2016 trend.
Glossy Jet Black Finish: Prone to scratches and fingerprints.

Water Resistance Depth and DurationThe iPhone 7 Plus has an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) of water for 30 minutes. Apple’s warranty does not cover water damage, so caution is advised.

Five Similar Phones

Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: 5.5-inch AMOLED, Snapdragon 820, wireless charging.
Google Pixel XL: 5.5-inch AMOLED, Snapdragon 821, stock Android.
OnePlus 3T: 5.5-inch AMOLED, Snapdragon 821, fast charging.
Huawei P9 Plus: 5.5-inch AMOLED, dual-camera, Kirin 955.
LG G5: 5.3-inch IPS LCD, Snapdragon 820, modular design.

Date Software Stopped Getting UpdatesThe iPhone 7 Plus received its final software update, iOS 15.8.3, in October 2023. No further feature or security updates are provided, limiting compatibility with newer apps.

Price on Release (2016)

UK: £719 (32GB), £819 (128GB), £919 (256GB)
Europe: €909 (32GB), €1,019 (128GB), €1,129 (256GB)
America: $769 (32GB), $869 (128GB), $969 (256GB)
Japan: ¥85,800 (32GB), ¥96,800 (128GB), ¥107,800 (256GB)
China: ¥6,388 (32GB), ¥7,188 (128GB), ¥7,988 (256GB)

Price New Now (2025)New stock is largely unavailable, but refurbished or unopened units are sold by third-party retailers:

UK: ~£150-£200 (128GB, refurbished)
Europe: ~€180-€230 (128GB, refurbished)
America: ~$130-$180 (128GB, refurbished)
Japan: ~¥20,000-¥25,000 (128GB, refurbished)
China: ~¥1,200-¥1,500 (128GB, refurbished)

Highest Price Used (2025)

UK: ~£250 (256GB, excellent condition)
Europe: ~€300 (256GB, excellent condition)
America: ~$220 (256GB, excellent condition)
Japan: ~¥30,000 (256GB, excellent condition)
China: ~¥1,800 (256GB, excellent condition)

Lowest Price Used (2025)

UK: ~£80 (32GB, fair condition)
Europe: ~€100 (32GB, fair condition)
America: ~$70 (32GB, fair condition)
Japan: ~¥10,000 (32GB, fair condition)
China: ~¥600 (32GB, fair condition)

Note: Used prices vary based on condition, storage, and market demand, sourced from platforms like eBay and local retailers.15 Reviews with Japanese NamesPositive Reviews

Hiroshi Tanaka: “The iPhone 7 Plus’s dual camera is fantastic! Portrait Mode makes my photos look professional, and the A10 chip keeps everything smooth. Water resistance is a lifesaver for rainy days in Tokyo.”
Yumi Sato: “I love the Jet Black finish—it’s so sleek. The stereo speakers are loud and clear, perfect for music. iOS is reliable, and the battery lasts all day. Worth every yen!”
Kenji Nakamura: “This phone’s performance is top-notch for 2016. Gaming is smooth, and the 3D Touch feature is fun to use. Apple’s ecosystem makes my MacBook and iPad sync perfectly.”
Aiko Yamamoto: “The build quality is amazing, and the IP67 rating gives peace of mind. The camera’s zoom is great for concerts, and the colors pop. Still feels premium in 2025.”
Takashi Mori: “Battery life is impressive, and the Retina display is vibrant. The Taptic Engine makes the home button feel alive. A great device for Apple fans.”

Neutral Reviews

Reiko Suzuki: “The iPhone 7 Plus is solid, with a good camera and performance. However, the lack of a headphone jack is annoying, and the bezels are too big compared to newer phones.”
Daichi Ito: “It’s reliable for daily tasks, and iOS is smooth. The dual-camera is nice, but charging is slow. It’s a decent phone, but I miss wireless charging like my friend’s Samsung.”
Mika Hayashi: “The design is elegant, but it feels bulky. The A10 chip handles most apps well, but some newer games lag. Good for basic use, less for heavy multitasking.”
Shota Endo: “The ecosystem is great for my Apple Watch, but the phone feels dated. The camera is strong, but low-light shots aren’t as good as modern iPhones. It’s okay.”
Nana Fujimoto: “The battery is fine, and the display is sharp, but the lack of fast charging is noticeable. It’s a good phone for its time, but I’d upgrade soon.”

Negative Reviews

Kaito Watanabe: “No headphone jack is a dealbreaker. The adapter is clunky, and Bluetooth earbuds are expensive. The design is outdated with those huge bezels.”
Asuka Kondo: “Charging takes forever, and there’s no wireless option. My Galaxy S7 charges faster and has a better screen. The iPhone 7 Plus feels overpriced for 2025.”
Riku Ogawa: “The phone is slow with newer apps, and iOS 15 is the end of updates. The camera is decent, but low-light performance is poor compared to my Pixel.”
Haruka Matsuda: “The Jet Black scratches easily, and the battery barely lasts a day now. It’s too big for one-handed use. I regret not getting a newer model.”
Yuto Kimura: “The lack of customization in iOS is frustrating, and the phone feels heavy. The camera bump is ugly, and it’s not competitive with modern phones.”

Conclusion (2000 words)The iPhone 7 Plus, launched in September 2016, was a pivotal moment in Apple’s smartphone evolution, introducing features that shaped the industry while sparking debates that resonate even in 2025. As Apple’s first “Plus” model with a dual-camera system, it redefined mobile photography with Portrait Mode and 2x optical zoom, setting a benchmark for competitors. Its A10 Fusion chip delivered class-leading performance, ensuring smooth operation through iOS 15.8.3, its final update in 2023. The IP67 water resistance, stereo speakers, and Taptic Engine-enhanced home button added durability and interactivity, while the seamless Apple ecosystem—integrating iCloud, Apple Pay, and AirPods—cemented its appeal for loyal users. Available in striking colors like Jet Black and (PRODUCT)RED, it balanced style with substance, selling an estimated 40-50 million units by 2019.However, the iPhone 7 Plus wasn’t without flaws. The removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack, a move Apple justified for water resistance and space for components like the Taptic Engine, drew widespread criticism. Users reliant on wired headphones faced the inconvenience of a Lightning adapter or costly Bluetooth alternatives like AirPods. The large bezels and dated design, carried over from the iPhone 6s Plus, made it feel bulky compared to sleeker rivals like the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. Its 5W charging was painfully slow, taking over 3 hours, and the absence of wireless charging—standard on many 2016 Android flagships—felt like a missed opportunity. The Jet Black finish, while stunning, was a magnet for scratches, and the phone’s size hindered one-handed use.Performance and Longevity
The A10 Fusion chip, with its quad-core design and 3GB RAM, was a powerhouse in 2016, outpacing the Snapdragon 820 in single-core tasks and enabling console-level gaming. Even in 2025, it handles basic tasks—email, browsing, and light gaming—with ease, though newer apps and AI-driven features strain its limits. The six years of software updates (2016-2023) ensured longevity, outlasting many Android peers, but the end of support in 2023 means no further security patches or modern iOS features, limiting its future-proofing. Compared to 2025’s A18 Bionic, the A10 feels underpowered, but its efficiency and optimization kept the iPhone 7 Plus relevant for casual users.Camera Innovation
The dual-camera system was a game-changer, with the 12MP wide and telephoto lenses offering versatility unmatched by the single-lens iPhone 7 or many rivals. Portrait Mode, leveraging software to blur backgrounds, made professional-grade photography accessible, while the 2x optical zoom preserved detail in distant shots. The f/1.8 aperture and OIS improved low-light performance, though it didn’t quite match the Galaxy S7’s low-light prowess. The 7MP front camera, with Retina Flash, was a selfie upgrade. In 2025, the camera lags behind 48MP sensors and computational photography in newer iPhones, but for 2016, it was revolutionary, influencing dual-camera trends across the industry.Battery and Charging
The 2900mAh battery offered solid endurance, lasting a full day for most users and outperforming smaller-battery rivals through iOS optimization. However, its 5W charging was a glaring weakness, taking over 3 hours for a full charge, while competitors like the OnePlus 3T offered 20W fast charging. The lack of wireless charging, a feature Samsung had mastered, felt like a step behind. The battery’s durability, with minimal degradation over cycles, and the IP67 rating added resilience, but the charging experience remains a pain point, especially compared to 2025’s 35W standards.Design and Build
The aluminum unibody, refined antenna bands, and new color options gave the iPhone 7 Plus a premium aesthetic, with the glossy Jet Black finish stealing the spotlight (despite its scratch-prone nature). The IP67 rating was a welcome addition, protecting against spills and brief submersion, though it didn’t match the Galaxy S7’s IP68 depth. The large bezels and protruding camera bump, however, made it less modern than edge-to-edge Android designs. The capacitive home button, powered by the Taptic Engine, was a forward-thinking move, paving the way for buttonless iPhones. In 2025, the design feels clunky, but its durability and ergonomic grip still appeal to some.Ecosystem and Software
Apple’s ecosystem was a major strength, with iOS 10 (and later iOS 15.8.3) enabling seamless integration with MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches. Features like Handoff, iCloud backups, and Apple Pay (with FeliCa in Japan) created a cohesive experience that Android struggled to match in 2016. The App Store’s curated apps and long software support ensured value, but iOS’s limited customization frustrated users accustomed to Android’s flexibility. The headphone jack removal pushed AirPods, strengthening Apple’s wireless ecosystem but alienating traditional audio fans. In 2025, the ecosystem remains a draw for Apple users, though the iPhone 7 Plus misses newer features like Apple Intelligence.Sustainability
Apple’s sustainability efforts in 2016 were commendable but limited. The recyclable aluminum body and mercury-free display reduced environmental impact, and renewable energy in production was a step forward. However, the glued-in battery and low repairability score hindered eco-friendliness, as repairs often required professional service. The trade-in program extended the device’s lifecycle, but the reliance on mined materials and non-modular design pales against 2025’s modular, biodegradable trends. Apple’s later carbon-neutral goals show progress, but the iPhone 7 Plus reflects an era of incremental sustainability.Market Impact and Legacy
Selling millions globally, the iPhone 7 Plus was a commercial success, though reports of sluggish sales led to a 10% production cut in early 2017. Its dual-camera system influenced competitors, and the headphone jack removal, though controversial, accelerated the wireless audio trend. The (PRODUCT)RED variant supported AIDS research, adding social impact. Compared to rivals like the Galaxy S7 Edge, Pixel XL, and OnePlus 3T, it offered superior ecosystem integration and software longevity but lagged in design innovation and charging speed.Value in 2025
At release, the iPhone 7 Plus commanded premium prices (£719-£919 in the UK), reflecting its flagship status. In 2025, refurbished units sell for £150-£200, with used prices as low as £80, making it a budget option for Apple fans. However, its lack of modern features—5G, fast charging, and iOS 18 support—limits appeal. For basic tasks, it’s a steal, but power users will find it underpowered and outdated.User Feedback
The 15 reviews with Japanese names reflect mixed sentiment. Positive reviews praise the camera, performance, and ecosystem, while neutral ones acknowledge reliability but note dated features. Negative reviews highlight the headphone jack removal, slow charging, and aging design, echoing 2016 criticisms from outlets like Forbes, which panned the bezels and audio change. The device’s strengths—durability, camera, and software—still resonate, but its flaws are more pronounced in 2025.Final Verdict
The iPhone 7 Plus was a bold, flawed masterpiece. Its dual-camera, water resistance, and A10 chip pushed boundaries, while its ecosystem and long updates ensured value. However, the headphone jack removal, slow charging, and bulky design drew justified criticism. In 2016, it was a top-tier device, rivaling the best Android flagships. In 2025, it’s a nostalgic relic, suitable for budget buyers or Apple loyalists but outclassed by modern phones. Its legacy lies in its influence—Portrait Mode, wireless audio, and durable design became smartphone staples. For those seeking a cheap entry into Apple’s ecosystem, it’s a viable, if limited, choice. For others, newer models offer better performance and features, making the iPhone 7 Plus a charming but dated piece of tech history.

Sources

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MRPMWoodman

Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

MRPMWoodman

Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

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Review of the iPhone 7 Plus

Review of the iPhone 7 Plus

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