Apple's Major Camera Upgrade for iPhone 18 Pro Might Arrive in 2026

Apple is preparing a significant camera upgrade, but it may not be available until 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that the company is developing a variable aperture main camera for its iPhone 18 Pro series. This news pertains specifically to the iPhone 18 Pro, expected to launch in 2026, as Apple’s planning process extends far into the future. Kuo’s information comes from sources within Apple’s supply chain.

Potential suppliers for the advanced camera include Sunny Optical, Largan Precision, and Luxshare. Earlier, The Information had suggested a 2025 release, but it seems the feature’s debut has been pushed back by a year.

The variable aperture technology should deliver significant benefits. By adjusting the amount of light entering the lens, the camera will excel in low-light conditions and provide enhanced depth of field control for portrait shots. While this feature is still two years away for Apple devices, smartphones like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra already offer variable aperture capabilities, having been introduced at Mobile World Congress in February this year.