Variable aperture technology had a short-lived debut with Samsung’s Galaxy S8 and S8+ several years ago. Despite the innovation, the feature didn’t gain traction and has not returned in subsequent flagship models from the company. However, Apple appears poised to harness this technology in its upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Recent insights from analysts suggest that a Dutch semiconductor company is gearing up to support Apple’s plans.
Insights on BESI’s Role in Apple’s Camera Innovation
In earlier reports, industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicated that Sunny Optical would be the main supplier of the variable aperture lens for Apple’s latest flagship models, while Largan is set to handle the remaining share of the manufacturing load. Yet, the lens is just part of the equation; variable aperture technology also relies on intricate components, including the aperture blades supplied by BESI. These blades are essential for adjusting the aperture size, delivering enhanced imaging capabilities to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Apple’s approach to adopting new technology often lags behind competitors, particularly in the arena of camera hardware. The recent introduction of the tetraprism telephoto lens exclusively for the iPhone 15 Pro Max—subsequently available on the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max—serves as a prime example. Critics frequently highlight Apple’s delayed hardware advancements, but the company has its rationale. The failure of Samsung to maintain variable aperture in its smartphones post-Galaxy S8 suggests that consumer reception may not have justified the feature.
At a time when flagship smartphones typically featured only a solitary rear camera, the utility of variable aperture technology was limited. However, as modern devices begin incorporating multiple camera types—such as wide-angle, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses—reviving variable aperture technology seems like a logical progression, offering users enhanced versatility and depth for mobile photography.
For further insights on this topic, you can check out the report by Ming-Chi Kuo.
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