A trusted leaker has reinforced rumors that the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro will feature a variable aperture lens, a first for Apple’s smartphones. The feature may debut exclusively on the Pro Max model, though details remain unconfirmed.
A variable aperture lens allows users to adjust the depth of field (DoF) in photos more precisely.
Shallow DoF: Isolate subjects from the background.
Medium DoF: Keep the subject prominent while retaining background details.
Deep DoF: Ensure everything from foreground to background is in focus.
While current iPhone Portrait mode and telephoto lenses provide some DoF effect, a variable aperture lens offers more natural and flexible control. Filmmakers can also benefit, for example, by shooting at 24fps in bright sunlight without overexposing the image.
New leak confirms earlier reports
Ming-Chi Kuo initially reported plans for a variable aperture lens on the iPhone 18. Supply chain data and leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS) have now corroborated this, suggesting the feature could appear on the main cameras of the high-end Pro and Pro Max models.
According to DCS, the Pro Max will specifically see a variable large aperture and a 48MP telephoto lens with a wider aperture. DCS has a history of accurate leaks, including details about the iPhone 16 Pro telephoto lens and main camera sensor upgrades.
Kuo’s reports were slightly vague, mentioning only the “high-end” iPhone 18 without specifying models. Some supply chain reports indicate that both Pro and Pro Max models could receive the upgrade, but the leaker specifically references the Pro Max, likely due to its larger internal space for advanced camera hardware.
