According to supply chain sources, Apple is reportedly going to significantly increase the size of the rear camera module on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. The camera cluster will not only be wider but also protrude about 2 mm more than its predecessor, significantly increasing the overall thickness of the device, including the lens.
This change is believed to stem from Apple equipping the iPhone with a larger image sensor combined with variable aperture technology, a first for the iPhone. This is considered a significant upgrade, improving image quality directly from the hardware rather than relying too heavily on processing algorithms.
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| The iPhone 18 Pro Max camera could see the biggest change ever. |
Unlike the fixed aperture system used on current iPhone Pro models, variable aperture allows the lens to automatically adjust its opening according to shooting conditions. When shooting in bright light, the aperture can be narrowed to increase sharpness across the entire frame. Conversely, in low-light environments, the aperture will open wider to capture more light, thereby improving image quality without the need for additional software processing.
Another notable upgrade is the 48MP main sensor, which is said to be up to 1/1.12 inch in size, significantly larger than the current generation. The larger sensor helps capture more light, reducing noise in night shots, while also improving dynamic range and color reproduction.
Analysts believe that the combination of a large sensor and variable aperture will help the iPhone 18 Pro Max create a more natural-looking bokeh effect. Instead of relying primarily on subject recognition algorithms as before, the device can create optical bokeh effects similar to professional cameras, resulting in portraits with more depth and realism.
In addition to internal upgrades, Apple is also rumored to be changing the camera module layout. The lens guards may be designed with uniform sizes to create a balanced look, while also making the back panel appear more robust and distinctive compared to previous generations.
However, integrating a mechanical aperture mechanism along with a large sensor also presents several design challenges. The internal space of the device will be reduced, while Apple still has to ensure image stabilization, autofocus speed, and the durability of the camera system during long-term use.
Some experts also suggest that close-range focusing may continue to be a challenge Apple needs to address. Currently, iPhones often switch to the ultra-wide-angle camera when shooting macro. With a more complex optical system, the company will have to optimize both hardware and algorithms to maintain a consistent photography experience.
According to leaked information, the new camera module has significantly higher production costs than its predecessor, reflecting Apple's ambition to elevate photography capabilities on the iPhone Pro line. This is also considered one of the factors that could cause the price of the iPhone 18 Pro Max to increase when the product is officially launched.
Although Apple has yet to confirm any information, many reliable sources suggest that the design and camera system of the iPhone 18 Pro Max are almost complete. If the rumors turn out to be true, this would be one of Apple's most significant camera upgrades in years.
Source: https://baoquocte.vn/camera-iphone-18-pro-max-co-the-thay-doi-lon-nhat-tu-truoc-den-nay-411105.html











