iPhone 17 Pro camera screen. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models could introduce a major camera upgrade with a new variable aperture system now reportedly reaching the sampling phase. A Chinese tipster claims the feature has entered late-stage engineering tests, signaling that Apple is actively evaluating it for its next flagship lineup.
According to a post on Weibo by tipster named Smart Pikachu, the variable aperture camera has moved into late-stage engineering samples. The leaker also noted that a teleconverter is currently “under evaluation” for the iPhone 18 Pro series.
Tipster Smart Pikachu’s Weibo post. (Translated via Google Translate)
If implemented, a variable aperture camera on the iPhone 18 Pro could significantly enhance exposure control, especially for video recording. By optically limiting incoming light, the system could help preserve natural motion blur and maintain smoother exposure levels when shooting in bright environments.
Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously stated in December 2024 that both iPhone 18 Pro models would feature a variable aperture main rear camera, marking a first for the iPhone lineup.
A follow-up report from October 2025 further suggested that Apple was moving ahead with these plans and had begun discussions with component suppliers to bring the technology to future iPhones.
The mention of a teleconverter is a new and unexpected detail. In traditional DSLR systems, teleconverters are optical attachments that increase a lens’s effective focal length to extend zoom range, though they typically reduce light intake. How such a concept would translate to a smartphone camera remains unclear.
If Apple were to adopt a teleconverter-style optical setup, it would likely reduce the amount of light reaching the sensor. In that scenario, pairing it with a variable aperture system could give Apple more flexibility in managing exposure alongside its computational photography techniques.
At this point in the product development cycle, the overall design of the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is likely already finalised. However, Apple typically continues to test and refine individual components such as camera modules, during this phase. The company may be conducting parallel evaluations of multiple features without committing them to mass production.
The late-stage engineering samples are likely being used to assess optical performance, reliability, and manufacturing feasibility. If the camera system fails to meet Apple’s quality standards or proves difficult to scale, the company could still decide to drop the feature. Variable aperture technology was previously rumored for at least one iPhone 17 model but never made it to the final product.
Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026.
Answer. Apple is testing a variable aperture system, now in late-stage engineering samples.
Answer. It improves exposure control, especially for video recording in bright environments.
Answer. Apple is considering a teleconverter to extend zoom range, though details remain
Highlights India plans to achieve strong chip design and manufacturing by 2029, targeting 3nm production…
Highlights Realme P4 Power 5G debuts in India with prices starting at Rs. 25,999. Sales…
Highlights Redmi Note 15 Pro and Pro Plus launched in India, priced at Rs. 37,999…
Highlights Vivo Y31d debuts in Cambodia and Vietnam with Glow White and Starlight Grey colour…
Highlights Motorola introduced Moto G17 and Moto G17 Power in select EMEA markets. Both phones…
Highlights Moto G67 launched featuring a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300, up to…
This website uses cookies.