Last year, Apple finally added a periscopic telephoto lens to the iPhone 15 Pro Max and later expanded the update to the iPhone 16 Pro. This is just one example of how the Cupertino company adopted technological advances much later than its competitors.

Reports now suggest that Apple is planning to introduce a variable aperture camera to the iPhone 18 series, a feature that Samsung introduced with the Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus in 2018. Since then, various smartphone manufacturers have tried the new technology on their flagships, and some, such as the Xiaomi 14 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, still use this technology. The variable aperture feature is expected to be available only on iPhone 18 Pro models, potentially widening the gap between standard iPhone models and Pro models.

Variable aperture could greatly benefit iPhone’s imaging system

Although the optical upgrade did not provide a serious advantage to Samsung at that time, it is reported that Apple’s approach could have a more significant impact. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, a reliable news source about Apple, this new feature is expected to come with the iPhone 18 series in 2026. For those who don’t know, variable aperture allows the camera to be adjusted to adapt to different lighting conditions. Opening the lens allows more or less light to enter the sensor.

Essentially, this update to the iPhone 18 series could provide better low-light photos while providing greater control over depth of field (when there is enough light). This flexibility is already available on high-end DSLRs and some Android phones, including the two I mentioned above. Not to mention, this will be a significant addition to the iPhone’s photography capabilities, potentially giving Apple a competitive advantage among those who prioritize camera quality.

Apple’s decision to rely on a well-known Android vendor underscores the growing trend in the adoption of cross-platform technology in the smartphone industry. In addition, Apple is reportedly eyeing Samsung as a new camera sensor supplier, possibly ending Sony’s exclusive role in this space.

For those who don’t want to wait for the iPhone 18 series, expected in late 2027, the iPhone 17 Pro series could be a promising alternative with a more powerful chipset and possibly more RAM (needed for more advanced AI features). on the device) as well as a 48-megapixel telephoto lens designed to provide better clarity when zooming in from long distances.