Insider Reveals iPhone Camera Plans for the Next Four Generations
Renowned analyst and insider Ming-Chi Kuo has shed light on Apple's camera plans for future iPhones, citing sources within Crystal-Optech, Apple's primary lens supplier. The report dispels rumors of Apple ditching glass prisms for plastic alternatives, at least until the iPhone 19 series.
Here's a breakdown of Kuo's predictions:
- iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max: Both models will inherit the iPhone 15 Pro Max's periscope telephoto camera, featuring a tetraprism design and 5x optical zoom.
- iPhone 17 series: All three rear cameras will boast a 48MP resolution. The telephoto lens will receive a significant upgrade with improved optics and a notably larger aperture.
- iPhone 18 series: No major hardware changes are anticipated for this generation.
- iPhone 19 series: Development is underway on an advanced, more compact tetraprism with a redesigned structure. This new design aims to reduce the physical size of the telephoto camera while simultaneously enhancing optical zoom capabilities. According to Kuo, achieving both these objectives has presented a considerable challenge for Apple's engineers.
These insights provide a glimpse into Apple's long-term vision for iPhone camera technology, with a clear focus on improving telephoto capabilities and overall image quality in the coming years.