Expanded Availability Expected for Premium Camera Feature Across Additional iPhone Models in 2024

Apple launched the iPhone 15 series in September 2023, which included the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Among these, the iPhone 15 Pro Max was equipped with a tetra-prism telephoto lens, offering a 5x optical zoom feature, a premium upgrade from the typical 3x optical zoom. This feature was exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max model, setting it apart from its counterparts.

According to TrendForce, Apple is now rumored to extend this premium camera feature to the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models. The inclusion of the tetra-prism lens in these upcoming models signifies a significant upgrade, especially since the iPhone 15 Pro was not equipped with this feature. The anticipation around this upgrade suggests that camera specifications continue to be a major factor driving consumer decisions to upgrade their devices.

Industry insiders and reports, including one from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, suggest that the adoption of the tetra-prism telephoto lens will not be limited to the iPhone 16 Pro Max but will also include the iPhone 16 Pro, making it a standard feature across the Pro series. This move could potentially influence other smartphone manufacturers, particularly Android vendors, to differentiate their offerings more distinctly. For mid-range devices, a more cost-effective, fixed-focus or single-fold periscope system is expected, while high-end devices may see the adoption of more complex, inner-focus modules or similar technologies.