Tag: variable aperture camera

  • iPhone 18 Pro May Feature First Variable Aperture Camera

    iPhone 18 Pro May Feature First Variable Aperture Camera

    Apple appears to be gearing up to follow a trend that has been popular among various Android brands. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 18 Pro, which is anticipated to be announced in 2026, may feature a variable aperture camera system.

    Variable Aperture Advantages

    Android phone makers have been testing variable aperture lenses for a while, offering users better control over light intake and depth of field. These lenses can change their opening size, similar to what you find in professional cameras. In well-lit conditions, a smaller aperture results in clearer images and a greater depth of field, keeping both foreground and background in sharp focus. On the other hand, a larger aperture lets in more light, making it perfect for taking well-lit photos in darker settings, though this results in a shallower depth of field that blurs the background behind the main subject.

    iPhone 18 or 17?

    Earlier reports from The Information hinted that one of the iPhone 17 models might introduce a variable aperture camera, but Kuo’s new findings suggest that this feature may be pushed back to the iPhone 18 series in 2026. He specifically points out that the main rear camera on the iPhone 18 Pro is likely to incorporate this technology. Kuo’s industry analysis shows that Sunny Optical is expected to be the main supplier of the camera’s shutter mechanism, with Luxshare serving as a secondary supplier. Interestingly, Sunny Optical is also projected to provide the variable aperture lens, while Largan Precision will remain the primary lens supplier.

    Current iPhone Limitations

    Up to now, every iPhone model has utilized fixed aperture lenses, which limits how much users can control light intake and depth of field. With the introduction of variable aperture technology, users could gain more precise control over these settings, allowing for adjustments that match their personal preferences. It’s worth mentioning that Kuo’s insights are drawn from industry surveys, so they should be seen as educated guesses rather than confirmed information. Since the iPhone 18’s release is still two years away, Apple has plenty of time to fine-tune its plans and potentially alter its camera approach.

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  • Apple iPhone 18 Series May Feature Variable Aperture Camera

    Apple iPhone 18 Series May Feature Variable Aperture Camera

    Apple has finally added a periscope telephoto lens to its iPhone 15 Pro Max last year, and this upgrade was later rolled out to the iPhone 16 Pro. This shift illustrates how the Cupertino-based company has embraced new technologies after its rivals.

    Upcoming Innovations

    Recent reports indicate that Apple may introduce a variable aperture camera in the iPhone 18 series. This is a feature that Samsung first launched back in 2018 with its Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus. Since then, several smartphone brands have played around with this technology in their flagship models, and some continue to include it, like the Xiaomi 14 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

    Pro Models Set Apart

    It’s expected that the variable aperture feature will only be available on the iPhone 18 Pro models, which could help to highlight the differences between the regular and Pro versions of the iPhone. This new feature could greatly enhance the imaging capabilities of the iPhone.

    While Samsung did not gain a substantial edge from the optical upgrade at the time, Apple’s strategy might lead to a more considerable influence. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is well-regarded for his insights into Apple, believes this feature will debut in 2026 with the iPhone 18 series.

    Improved Photography

    For those who might not know, a variable aperture allows the camera to adjust the lens opening according to different lighting conditions, letting in more or less light to the sensor. This enhancement for the iPhone 18 series could potentially improve photo quality in low-light environments and provide better control over depth of field when there’s enough light.

    This kind of flexibility is something we see in high-end DSLR cameras and some Android devices, including the previously mentioned models. Moreover, it would mark a significant boost to the iPhone’s photography features, possibly giving Apple an advantage for users who value high camera quality.

    Supplier Changes Ahead

    Apple’s choice to partner with a well-known Android supplier underscores a rising trend of cross-platform technology adoption in the smartphone market. Additionally, there are whispers that Apple might turn to Samsung for camera sensors, which could signal the end of Sony’s exclusive position in this domain.

    Alternatives Available Soon

    For those not inclined to wait until the iPhone 18 series, anticipated in late 2027, the iPhone 17 Pro series may be a great option. It promises a more powerful chipset, potentially more RAM (crucial for advanced on-device AI functionalities), and a 48MP telephoto lens aimed at providing clearer long-range zoom capabilities.

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