iPhone 15 Periscope Camera: A Game-Changer in Photography

Politics, News Sept. 10, 2023, 3:06 p.m.

The iPhone 15 is set to introduce a periscope camera, boosting photography capabilities, but it may only be available on the Pro Max model. This innovation marks a significant step in Apples camera technology.

The anticipation for the iPhone 15 periscope camera has been building for quite some time. Rumors about this groundbreaking addition to Apple's smartphone lineup date back to early 2021, and it appears that the iPhone 15 Pro Max's expected unveiling at the Apple September event will finally put these speculations to rest.

The periscope camera is poised to be a game-changer in terms of photography, potentially becoming one of the primary reasons to consider upgrading to the iPhone 15. However, there's a slight disappointment in store for potential buyers: this innovative feature may be exclusive to just one out of four iPhone 15 models, potentially complicating the decision-making process for those looking to upgrade.

For those still curious about the iPhone 15 periscope camera, let's delve into what we know so far.

Much like the periscope on a submarine, a periscope camera lens utilizes a pair of mirrors to redirect an image from the camera's opening to its sensor, which is positioned to the side of the opening. This increased distance between the sensor and the opening allows for the inclusion of larger lenses, resulting in enhanced optical zoom capabilities.

Interestingly, Android phones have already been incorporating periscope telephoto cameras for a while, with the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's 10x optical zoom camera being a prominent example.

In the iPhone 15 series, it appears that the periscope telephoto camera might only grace the Pro Max/Ultra model. This news may disappoint users, especially given the increased divide it introduces between the smaller Pro model and the Pro Max. Furthermore, supply chain issues related to the camera's components may make the Pro Max model harder to acquire than expected.

For those who prefer smaller iPhones, it's worth noting that the smaller Pro model may not receive a periscope camera upgrade until the iPhone 16, making it a tempting proposition to skip this year's upgrade. Additionally, this feature could potentially justify a $100 to $200 price increase for the flagship model.

Rumors suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro Max's periscope zoom camera could offer 6x zoom, a significant improvement over the 3x zoom capability of the iPhone 14 Pro. There's even speculation that it might support an impressive 10x zoom magnification or feature a variable lens to provide multiple optical zoom levels.

Regardless of the specific lens configuration, leakers claim that the periscope camera will employ a hybrid lens, combining both glass and plastic elements. This approach aims to strike a balance between cost and weight, as glass lenses are typically heavier and pricier but offer superior optical quality. Notably, all other iPhone cameras currently use plastic lenses, making this a noteworthy departure from the norm.

However, incorporating this cutting-edge technology will require more space within the camera module. Apple will reportedly need to reposition the ultrawide and telephoto cameras to accommodate the new sensor and increase the camera bump's size by approximately 5%.

The periscope camera's potential exclusion from all but the most expensive Pro Max model is regrettable, especially if the rumors hold true. Nevertheless, it marks a long-awaited move that could help Apple catch up with its Android competitors in the realm of camera technology.

For those who desire the periscope camera in a more compact package, it might be advisable to wait until the iPhone 16, as the iPhone 15 Pro's zoom camera is unlikely to see any significant changes. On the flip side, those eager to get their hands on the iPhone 15 Pro Max and its groundbreaking camera may face fierce competition, as it's expected to be both highly sought after and in limited supply. If you're certain that this is the phone for you, considering placing an iPhone 15 pre-order to secure your spot.

In conclusion, the iPhone 15 periscope camera is set to be a defining feature in Apple's lineup, promising significant improvements in zoom capabilities and optical quality. While its exclusivity to the Pro Max model may be disappointing for some, it signals a step forward in Apple's camera technology, keeping pace with its Android rivals.