Tech News

How About Putting A Camera Lens on a Smartphone with a 1-inch Sensor?

Highlights

Tech DIY video YouTube channel Mod and Shoot blends smartphone and mirrorless camera functionalities.
Xiaomi previously showcased a similar concept smartphone based on the Xiaomi 12S Ultra.
Xiaomi’s concept phone featured a mount for Leica M lenses and an exposed 1” sensor.

Screengrab from Mod and Shoot’s DIY Video title “Let’s replace a smartphone camera lens with a C-Mount”. (Image credit – Mod and Shoot YouTube Channel)

Tech DIY is not something that we get to explore often. However, sometimes we come across a tutorial online that feels motivating enough to try our hands at achieving the next level of technological upgrade.

Before we get to the tutorial, let’s go down the memory lane for a bit.

Back in 2022, Xiaomi revealed a concept smartphone with a mount for Leica M lenses based on the Xiaomi 12S Ultra.

Xiaomi’s concept smartphone cum mirrorless camera hybrid based on the Xiaomi 12S Ultra. (Image credit – Xiaomi)

Xiaomi 12S Ultra after the mounted mirrorless camera. (Image Credit – Xiaomi)

What looked like a hybrid between a smartphone and a mirrorless camera, Xiaomi’s idea had an exposed 1” sensor and a mount for removable lenses.

The idea was fascinating. However, it only remained a concept and regular consumers never got to experience it in an available product.

Now, a video tutorial on YouTube from the channel Mod and Shoot demonstrates something similar that users can create themselves. Provided, you have enough tech DIY skills.

In the YouTube video, the creator of this mod does a similar modification on a Sharp Aquos R6.

The Sharp Aquos R6’s camera module with its model lens. (Image credit – GSM Arena)

Sharp Aquos R6 is a higher-resolution 47MP 1” sensor and can shoot 8K video.

We also get to see how the phone’s original 19mm Leica Summicron lens was swapped out for a C mount. This type of mount was originally used on 16mm cameras and is now more common in security cameras.

The video shows that with the right adapter, this setup can use lenses from many other cameras.

However, it is important to note that there are two main issues with this concept: one is the obvious added bulk and two is the fact that autofocus doesn’t work. Basically, with this camera setup, you will have to focus manually.

For more, check out Mod and Shoot’s Instagram. The channel has posted some videos and photos taken with the modified R6.

FAQs

Q1. Can we mount any camera lens on smartphones?

Answer. Not all camera lenses are compatible with smartphones. Specific adapters or mounts are needed for your phone model and the type of lens. It’s important to check compatibility before attempting any modifications.

Q2. How does mounting a lens on a smartphone help?

Answer. Mounting a lens can enhance your smartphone’s photography capabilities. It allows for better zoom, improved image quality, and more creative control over your shots.

Q3. What are the negatives ofusing mounted lenses on smartphones?

Answer. Yes, there are a few drawbacks. Mounted lenses can add bulk to your phone, making it less portable. Additionally, many setups require manual focus, as autofocus may not work with the mounted lens.