iPhone 18 Pro to Feature Variable Aperture Camera, a Game-Changer for Apple Photography

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to introduce a variable aperture camera lens, a feature anticipated to elevate Apple’s photography game. According to prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this advanced lens, primarily supplied by Largan Precision with Sunny Optical as a secondary source, will enhance the flagship iPhone’s camera capabilities. Notably, Sunny Optical has previously established its reputation as a top-tier lens supplier for Apple’s iPhone and iPad lines.

Unlike the fixed f/1.78 aperture used in recent iPhones, a variable aperture lens will allow users to adjust light intake, adapting to various lighting scenarios while offering greater control over depth of field. This feature is particularly beneficial in achieving sharp focus on subjects in complex lighting environments, adding a layer of creative versatility for users.

While variable aperture lenses are not new to the smartphone industry—Samsung first introduced them in its Galaxy S9 series in 2018, followed closely by the Oppo R17 Pro—technology has evolved considerably since then. For example, recent Android models like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra boast a step-less variable aperture that ranges from f/1.63 to f/4.0, showcasing significant advancements in this area.

Apple’s integration of a variable aperture lens into the iPhone 18 Pro marks the company’s latest push into high-end photography, an area that continues to see fierce competition among smartphone manufacturers.