iPhone 16 Pro Sets New Camera Standards, but Improvement Opportunities Remain

The iPhone 16 Pro features an exceptional camera setup, placing it among the best camera phones, including the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Pixel 9 Pro, and Xiaomi 14 Ultra. However, there are several areas where improvements could enhance future models, such as the anticipated iPhone 17, expected to launch in September 2025.

Larger Image Sensor for Enhanced Quality

The iPhone 16 Pro’s main camera houses a 1/1.28-inch sensor, which is slightly larger than the 1/1.33-inch sensor of the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While this is commendable, a larger sensor, akin to the 1-inch sensor in the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, could significantly improve light capture and dynamic range. Professional cameras often feature full-frame or medium-format sensors for pristine image quality, a feature smartphones could strive toward. While a full-frame sensor in a smartphone remains impractical due to size constraints, matching Xiaomi’s 1-inch sensor could be a realistic target.

Variable Aperture for Versatile Photography

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s variable aperture, ranging from f/1.6 to f/4, offers superior flexibility. A wider aperture captures more light and creates a natural bokeh effect, while a narrower aperture enhances nighttime shots with starburst effects. In comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro’s f/1.78 aperture falls short of achieving similar results. Incorporating a variable aperture in future models would significantly elevate the iPhone’s photographic capabilities.

Expanded Photographic Styles

Apple’s Photographic Styles, introduced with the iPhone 16 series, allow users to apply effects and tones to their photos. While current options, such as the Amber and Gold tones, provide warmth and vintage effects, the variety remains limited. Expanding these styles to include tones inspired by vintage film stocks like Kodak or Fujifilm would offer greater creative flexibility. Additionally, allowing adjustments post-capture ensures a non-destructive editing process.

Improved Integration of ProRaw with Photographic Styles

Currently, Photographic Styles are available only when shooting in HEIF format, excluding ProRaw users. ProRaw combines computational photography with raw editing versatility, ideal for advanced users. Enabling Photographic Styles in ProRaw would merge creative freedom with professional-level editing capabilities. This feature would be especially beneficial for street photographers and those seeking monochromatic flexibility.

Introducing LUTs for ProRes Video

The iPhone 15 Pro’s ProRes video feature provides high-quality footage but lacks built-in LUTs (look-up tables) for color grading. Users must rely on external software like Davinci Resolve for professional-grade edits. Introducing LUTs directly within the iPhone would allow users to enhance and share their footage instantly. Whether for social media or personal sharing, this addition would make ProRes more accessible for non-professionals.

With enhancements such as a larger sensor, variable aperture, expanded Photographic Styles, ProRaw integration, and ProRes LUTs, future iPhones could dominate the smartphone photography landscape. The iPhone 17 holds the potential to refine these features further, setting a new standard for mobile photography.