Iphone 18 pro camera gets a major thock: thicker module, variable aperture rumors
Apple’s gearing up for a serious camera overhaul with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, and the latest whispers from the leaks suggest some significant changes – and a noticeable increase in size. Rumors point to a thicker rear camera module, driven by an ‘enlarged main camera module,’ a detail that’s already raising eyebrows.
Thickness boost: a necessary evil?
Fixed Focus Digital is reporting that the aluminum alloy back plate will now be 2mm thicker. While a bulkier phone isn’t exactly a selling point, the reasoning – a larger camera sensor and associated components – is starting to make sense. Apple’s always been a pioneer in camera Technology, and it seems they're doubling down with this generation.
Variable aperture: a dslr-inspired move
But the real buzz centers around the main camera. Sources indicate that the iPhone 18 Pro series will feature a variable aperture, a Technology previously pioneered by Huawei. This means the camera will be able to dynamically adjust its aperture – ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0 – depending on the lighting conditions. Essentially, it’s mimicking the behavior of a DSLR, allowing for brighter images in low light and preventing overexposure in bright environments. It’s a clever move to tackle the common complaints about iPhone image quality in challenging lighting.
Samsung was first, but apple’s going bigger
Huawei first brought variable aperture to smartphones with the Mate 50 Pro in 2022, offering a range of f-stops for adaptable performance. Samsung followed suit in 2018 with dual-aperture systems on the Galaxy S9 series. However, Apple’s aiming for a more sophisticated implementation with this new tech, likely leveraging larger internal components. The A20 Pro processor, slated for the iPhone 18 Pro, is expected to deliver a 15% performance boost, further enhancing the camera’s capabilities.
2Nm tech and a leap forward
Beyond the camera, the iPhone 18 Pro series is set to be the first iPhones utilizing TSMC’s 2nm process node and G-A-A transistor architecture. This represents a significant leap in manufacturing, promising increased efficiency and performance. While Samsung’s Exynos 2600 is currently utilizing a 2nm chip in Europe, Apple is consistently at the forefront of adopting the latest semiconductor Technology. The A20 Pro’s increased speed will undoubtedly be a key differentiator.
September launch, ultra still pending
Expect the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max and the rumored iPhone Ultra to land in September, with the Pro models launching concurrently. The Ultra’s debut might be delayed until later in the fall. And, of course, we’re also anticipating the iPhone 18e and Air 2 next spring. Apple’s continuing to push the boundaries of mobile Technology – and this camera upgrade is a clear indication of their ambition.