iPhone 16 Pro Max: New telephoto camera

The upcoming launch of Apple's iPhone 15 models is generating a lot of anticipation and rumors. However, even though there's still a long way to go...

As Apple works on its next generation of iPhones, the rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 Pro Max become more interesting.

Now, a new rumor suggests that Apple is planning to incorporate an "improved periscope camera" into its upcoming 16-model devices in 2024. If this proves true, photography enthusiasts will be thrilled with the ability to capture detailed images and drastically increase optical zoom.

New features in the iPhone 16 Pro Max camera

The new report comes from "Digital Chat Station," an account based in Asia. The report states that:

• The iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature:
  • A new, updated super-telephoto periscope camera hardware.
  • A camera sensor – 12% larger. That is, the new sensor would be approximately 1/1,14 inches.

And what does this mean?

• • To put this into context, the telephoto cameras on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro models have a focal length equivalent to 77mm. Meanwhile, the rumored iPhone 16 Pro Max models are expected to have a focal length exceeding 300mm. This means that by adding the "super" or "ultra" telephoto lens label, the new cameras will dramatically magnify and bring distant subjects closer.
  • It is also known that adding a larger sensor could improve this:
    • Dynamic range.
    • The background blur of the iPhone's main camera.
    • It could also substantially improve low-light photographic capabilities, since a larger surface area can capture more light, with the same shutter speed and aperture.

On the other hand, the report also states that the switch to a periscope telephoto camera system will begin with the iPhone 15 Pro Max later this year. And that it will continue into next year's "Pro" models, apparently thanks to the increased size of the smaller model.

And although many details remain to be revealed, the mere thought of Apple working on an improved camera for its devices is certainly intriguing. For now, we can only wait for new reports to provide further evidence. Apple's plans can change at any moment, depending on factors such as production pace, supply and availability of parts, and pricing.