Apple Set to Introduce Variable Aperture Technology in iPhone 18

Apple has been known for taking its time to adopt new technologies, often implementing features long after competitors have done so. In 2023, the company finally included a telephoto lens in the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with plans to expand this feature to the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Now, reports suggest Apple will introduce another significant camera upgrade for the iPhone 18 series in 2026: a variable aperture lens for the main camera.

The technology, which dynamically adjusts the lens aperture, was first introduced by Samsung in its Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus back in 2018. Despite the initial excitement, the feature did not provide a strong competitive advantage, leading Samsung to abandon it in subsequent models. Apple, however, seems to believe that waiting for the right components and suppliers will help provide an optimized user experience. According to respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will partner with Sunny Optical as the primary supplier for this technology.

Kuo shared that the high-end iPhone 18 will feature a wide-camera lens with variable aperture capability, significantly enhancing photography quality. Sunny Optical is set to lead as the main shutter supplier, with Luxshare as a secondary supplier, and will be the second variable aperture lens provider after Largan Precision. Sunny Optical’s extensive experience working with Android smartphone makers gives it a strong edge in this collaboration. Their established role in shutter manufacturing further secures their involvement in the iPhone supply chain.

While the variable aperture lens will bring notable improvements, this upgrade, like the telephoto lens, is expected to be exclusive to the ‘Pro’ variants. Apple’s approach of adopting features slowly yet deliberately aims to ensure top-tier performance. Additional technological advancements rumored for the iPhone 18 series include the introduction of 2nm chipsets. However, only select models will feature these next-generation processors due to cost constraints.

Interestingly, Kuo also hinted at the possibility of Apple incorporating Samsung as a new camera sensor supplier, potentially diversifying from Sony, which has long been Apple’s dominant partner in this area. Still, given that some of Kuo’s past predictions have missed the mark, these details should be viewed with some skepticism.

Apple’s careful strategy in adopting new camera technologies demonstrates a consistent emphasis on quality, even if it means waiting years after competitors. The 2026 iPhone lineup could mark a new era of photographic advancements, continuing to refine the smartphone photography experience for users worldwide.