Analyst predicts other smartphone makers will follow Apple's lead with trendsetting camera in iPhone 15 Pro Max

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has introduced a 5x telephoto lens, which utilizes a new tetraprism lens design that bends light to create a longer distance between the main lens and the camera’s sensor. This unique lens construction has caught the attention of analysts, as it sets a new trend in the industry.

According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the tetraprism lens stands out because of its special construction. Unlike traditional phone camera lenses, which are typically made of plastic to minimize distortion, Apple’s tetraprism lens incorporates one glass lens and three plastic lenses. This unconventional setup offers the clarity benefits of a glass lens without the drawbacks of a full-glass construction, such as increased vulnerability to breakage and higher production costs.

Kuo also predicts that other companies will take note of Apple’s lens innovation, particularly premium phone manufacturers like Huawei. He expects that similar lens configurations will become more common in future flagship smartphones.

Currently, Largan is the company responsible for assembling Apple’s camera lenses, but it outsources the production of the glass component. However, it is likely that Largan will eventually be able to manufacture the lenses in-house if needed. This change would give Apple more control over the production process and potentially reduce costs.

In summary, the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s tetraprism lens configuration, which combines one glass lens with three plastic lenses, is seen as a trendsetter in the industry. Other companies, especially those producing premium smartphones, are expected to adopt similar designs in the future. Largan, the current lens manufacturer for Apple, may also start producing the glass component in-house.