Apple used ‘tetraprisms’ to fit a 120mm lens into the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Apple used 'tetraprisms' to fit a 120mm lens into the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Apple’s Pro iPhones: A Camera Upgrade Worth Noting
Apple’s “pro” iPhones have always been renowned for their exceptional camera capabilities, and the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are no exception. These devices feature a three-lens camera array, but this year’s models come with some notable upgrades, especially for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
For the first time ever, the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a “5X” optical zoom with a 120mm focal length equivalent, surpassing the 3X camera found on the standard iPhone 15 Pro and last year’s 14 Pro models. This remarkable feat has been achieved through Apple’s innovative “tetraprism” design, which reflects light rays four times through the glass, enabling an extended optical reach without the need for a physically longer lens. Moreover, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 25 percent larger sensor than the 3X camera on the 14 Pro Max, resulting in improved low-light performance and the largest aperture of any smartphone in this zoom range.
While longer telephoto lenses are typically larger in physical space, Apple’s clever engineering allows for a compact design without sacrificing optical capabilities. The advanced image stabilization system further enhances the shooting experience, especially when capturing images at longer focal lengths. These advancements make the iPhone 15 Pro Max an impressive choice for smartphone photographers, as the camera upgrades alone could justify opting for the larger model over the standard version.
In addition to the telephoto enhancements, both the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max offer a range of other upgrades. The main camera sensor remains at 48 megapixels, enabling you to shoot at three effective focal lengths: 24mm, 28mm, and 35mm. Users can choose their preferred setting and set it as the default option. Although the default photo output will be at 24 megapixels, Apple combines pixels to improve low-light performance, resulting in remarkable image quality. For those seeking the full 48-megapixel resolution, the option to shoot in ProRAW format or HEIF is available, allowing for greater flexibility in file size and shareability.
The “main” shooter on both models can also utilize the center of the 48-megapixel sensor to capture 12-megapixel photos with an effective 2X zoom. This zoom capability remains exclusive to the standard iPhone 15 Pro, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max provides the long-awaited 5X optical zoom.
Apart from hardware improvements, Apple has introduced notable software upgrades with its new Photonic Engine, enhancing the overall photo processing system. These enhancements include improved low-light performance, better HDR, continuous zoom for portrait shots, the ability to adjust focus after capturing a photo, improved dynamic range, and more. Notably, the iPhone automatically switches to Portrait mode when focusing on humans or pets, eliminating the need for manual activation.
While most of the camera improvements this year are aimed at photography, Apple has made a significant video-related change specifically tied to its upcoming Vision Pro headset. The iPhone 15 Pro lineup will be capable of shooting spatial videos that can be viewed on the Vision Pro. These videos provide a more immersive experience by leveraging both the ultra-wide and main cameras to capture 3D-like footage. Although details are scarce, this move indicates Apple’s intention to encourage users to create compelling videos for its forthcoming headset.
While the standard iPhone 15 received more modest upgrades, there are still notable improvements worth mentioning. The main camera sensor has been upgraded to 48 megapixels, allowing for a 2X zoom on the standard model. By cropping into the center of the sensor, a 12-megapixel image can be produced without the quality degradation associated with digital zoom. Additionally, the standard iPhone 15 supports 24-megapixel images that utilize pixel combining to enhance low-light performance and detail, all while maintaining manageable file sizes. These enhancements cater to users who prefer a more simplified approach to iPhone photography, though for those seeking greater control over their images, the Pro models offer a superior choice.
With its consistent focus on camera innovations, Apple continues to redefine smartphone photography. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max introduce impressive upgrades, particularly with the advanced optical zoom capabilities of the Pro Max model. Alongside the hardware improvements, Apple’s software enhancements further enrich the photography experience. Whether you’re an avid smartphone photographer or simply want to capture stunning images effortlessly, Apple’s Pro iPhones remain at the forefront of mobile camera technology.
