Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reiterated that both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature Apple’s tetraprism Telephoto lens with improved zoom capabilities. This comes after Apple introduced the tetraprism lens system for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which allowed for 5x optical zoom for the first time. Notably, this camera technology was not included in the iPhone 15 Pro, marking a departure from Apple’s usual practice of equipping both Pro models with similar camera capabilities.
大立光潛望鏡鏡頭良率/獲利顯著提升,為2024年潛望鏡相機顯著成長的主要受益者 / Largan’s periscope lens yield/profitability improves significantly, positioning it as a major beneficiary of the substantial growth of periscope cameras in 2024https://t.co/ysUk7QYrM1
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) November 21, 2023
The reason behind this limitation was initially speculated to be due to space constraints, with only the Pro Max model able to accommodate the necessary hardware. However, production yield may have also played a factor. During the third quarter of 2023, when lens supplier Largan was manufacturing the tetraprism hardware for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the production yield stood at just 40 percent. Fortunately, the yield has now improved to 70 percent or more.
In order to address the space constraints and improve production yield, Apple is planning to increase the size of the iPhone 16 Pro to 6.3 inches, up from 6.1 inches. This size increase will allow for more space to incorporate the necessary camera hardware. With these improvements, Apple has effectively overcome the limitations that previously restricted the tetraprism lens to the larger Pro Max model.
As for future improvements to the tetraprism lens, it remains unclear if Apple has any plans for the 2024 models. There have been rumors suggesting that Apple is working on a “super telephoto camera” with a much longer focal length. However, little information has been revealed about this potential feature at this point.
It is worth noting that the tetraprism lens system offers significant advancements in zoom capabilities for iPhone users. By leveraging the benefits of a tetraprism lens, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will likely provide users with enhanced optical zoom functionality, allowing them to capture detailed shots even from a distance.
Apple’s commitment to continuously improving the camera technology in its flagship devices is evident. With each iteration, users can expect better image quality, improved low-light performance, and enhanced zoom capabilities. The inclusion of the tetraprism lens in the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max further solidifies Apple’s dedication to delivering a top-notch photography experience to its customers.
While we await further details on the potential “super telephoto camera” and any other camera enhancements, Apple enthusiasts can look forward to the release of the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, which are expected to offer an even more impressive photography experience than their predecessors.