This year, Apple is expected to release its iPhone 16 series. Likely to launch in early September, the iPhone 16 series is already building hype for potential upgrades, especially for the Pro models. Several rumours and speculations are hinting at what Apple might introduce. The most recent of these speculations is the report that the new iPhone 16 Pro models will get significant design and camera upgrades, which were previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max models.

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the most important changes in the iPhone 16 will be the introduction of a tetraprism lens to both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, which was previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. In his report to Medium, he revealed that this lens will offer 5x zoom capabilities, a significant upgrade from the 3x zoom on the current iPhone 15 Pro. Kuo mentioned that Largan, Apple’s largest lens supplier, is set to continue providing these tetraprism lenses. “Apple is Largan’s largest customer, and Largan is also Apple’s largest lens supplier. Therefore, the new iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will have a tetraprism camera in 2H24,” Kuo explained on Medium.

The move is expected to bring photographic uniformity across the Pro lineup, and eliminate the previous disparity where the smaller Pro models lacked the advanced zoom features of the larger models.

In addition to Apple joining hands with Largan, Genius Electronic Optical (GSEO) is expected to become a new supplier for these advanced lenses. According to a report by DigiTimes, Apple has placed substantial orders with both Largan Precision and GSEO to ensure a strong supply of periscope lenses for the new iPhone models. This strategic move is aimed at increasing production volumes and ensuring more competitive pricing.

Design changes to fit the lens

The iPhone 16 Pro models are also rumoured to feature a slight increase in size, potentially providing the space needed to include a tetraprism lens. This change would address the physical limitation that prevented the inclusion of a larger zoom lens in the smaller iPhone 15 Pro. Additionally, other design changes, such as a possible switch to touch-sensitive buttons with haptic feedback and a vertical camera layout, are speculated to be part of the new models.

Meanwhile, all four models in the iPhone 16 series are expected to be powered by the same-generation Apple A18 chip, which will deliver a consistent performance boost. The new devices will also run on iOS 18, which promises to offer users several new features and improvements. Additionally, rumours suggest that the Pro models may see a refresh rate bump and improved battery life, improving the overall user experience.