Apple expanding Tetraprism lens to the iPhone 16 Pro

Apple is predicted to expand its use of the Tetraprism telephoto lens from the Pro Max model of iPhone 16 to the iPhone 16 Pro.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the only model in the range to include a Tetraprism lens, which helps increase the optical zoom range of the telephoto lens from 3x to 5x. Though the iPhone 15 Pro missed out, the iPhone 16 Pro may join the Pro Max in using the component.

In a report discussing the smartphone camera lens market seen by AppleInsider, Trendforce claims that camera specification upgrades are continuing to drive device upgrades among consumers.

After the good reception of the iPhone 15 Pro Max and its Tetraprism telephoto lens, industry sources expect there will be an increase in the use of periscopic lens modules in response.

For Apple specifically, Trendforce believes that the camera technology will spread from the iPhone 16 Pro Max to the iPhone 16 Pro, making it a feature for the entire Pro series.

This is not the first time there has been claims about a Tetraprism expansion. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has repeatedly claimed since September that both iPhone 16 Pro models will use the same Tetraprism lens, with other reports corroborating the rumor.

The use of Tetraprism by Apple could influence the rest of the market, though cost considerations will cause Android smartphone vendors to more segment their offerings.

For mid-range devices, a cost-effective fixed-focus or single-fold periscope system is expected to be popular. High-end clustering inner-focus modules or similar complex versions are anticipated for high-end modules.

9 Comments

Fred257 259 comments · 5 Years

About 9 months ago

The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 pro will receive the sam lens this year as most people (at least with the pixel) are buying the regular model instead of the pro (in Asia).

rob53 3312 comments · 13 Years

I give credit to Apple designers in their effort to expand the camera capabilities of iPhones but there comes a time when designing exterior sets of lenses might be a better option for many users. Traditional camera users have always purchased exterior lenses to meet their specific needs. I have some Sandmarc external lenses and will probably purchase their brand new 6x, focusable telephoto lens. This lens screws into the Sandmarc case, properly positioning the lens in relationship to the iPhone camera lens. I know iPhone users might want everything within the phone but there comes a time when there won't be enough room to put quality camera components inside such a small device. Of course having both would serve everyone's needs.

hmlongco 586 comments · 9 Years

Actually was disappointed in the use of Tetraprism since it doesn't allow for any intermediate focal lengths. Periscope zooms, OTOH, allow for a lot more flexibility.

StrangeDays 12980 comments · 8 Years

rob53 said:

I give credit to Apple designers in their effort to expand the camera capabilities of iPhones but there comes a time when designing exterior sets of lenses might be a better option for many users. Traditional camera users have always purchased exterior lenses to meet their specific needs. I have some Sandmarc external lenses and will probably purchase their brand new 6x, focusable telephoto lens. This lens screws into the Sandmarc case, properly positioning the lens in relationship to the iPhone camera lens. I know iPhone users might want everything within the phone but there comes a time when there won't be enough room to put quality camera components inside such a small device. Of course having both would serve everyone's needs.

Will never happen. That’s a niche market for enthusiasts whereas the iPhone is a generalist appliance. Take it to the bank.

sbdude 291 comments · 5 Years

rob53 said:

I give credit to Apple designers in their effort to expand the camera capabilities of iPhones but there comes a time when designing exterior sets of lenses might be a better option for many users. Traditional camera users have always purchased exterior lenses to meet their specific needs. I have some Sandmarc external lenses and will probably purchase their brand new 6x, focusable telephoto lens. This lens screws into the Sandmarc case, properly positioning the lens in relationship to the iPhone camera lens. I know iPhone users might want everything within the phone but there comes a time when there won't be enough room to put quality camera components inside such a small device. Of course having both would serve everyone's needs.

Might be the smallest potential use case I've ever heard for an iPhone. I get that with computational photography, we're reaching SLR quality photographs on a phone, but no self-respecting professional will be giving up their mirrorless for iPhone with a focusable lens hanging off the back of it.