iPhone 18 Pro to Feature Advanced Variable Aperture Camera Technology

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro is expected to introduce a significant advancement in smartphone photography with the addition of a variable aperture wide-angle lens. This technology, which allows for greater control over depth of field and lighting in photos, has been a focal point of speculation surrounding Apple’s Pro-tier devices.

Renowned TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reiterated his earlier prediction that the iPhone 18 Pro, slated for release in 2026, will feature this groundbreaking camera upgrade. His latest comments came in the context of a report on BE Semiconductor, a supplier of aperture blade assembly equipment—a critical component for enabling variable aperture functionality.

The concept of variable aperture offers photographers the ability to adjust the size of the aperture dynamically. Unlike the fixed aperture systems currently found in iPhones, this technology provides the ability to alter the amount of light entering the camera sensor. A larger aperture can create a shallow depth of field, delivering natural bokeh effects without relying on computational photography. Conversely, a smaller aperture can increase the depth of field, keeping more of the image in focus.

This feature marks a departure from Apple’s current Portrait Mode, which uses software to simulate depth-of-field effects. By incorporating variable aperture hardware, the iPhone 18 Pro aims to provide users with authentic, hardware-driven control over their photography, enhancing both quality and versatility.

The rumored camera upgrade follows earlier reports that the iPhone 17 might also introduce variable aperture technology. While those rumors remain unconfirmed, the focus has shifted to the iPhone 18 Pro, with Kuo emphasizing that this feature could significantly elevate the user experience for photography enthusiasts.

As anticipation builds for Apple’s next steps in camera innovation, the iPhone 18 Pro’s potential to redefine mobile photography places it as a device to watch in 2026.