Apple Analyst Predicts iPhone 16 Pro Models Will Add 5x Zoom Camera

Longtime Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that the next iPhone 16 Pro models will likely feature a 5x zoom camera, like the current iPhone 15 Pro Max. In 2023, only the iPhone 15 Pro Max got upgraded to a 5x "tetra prism" zoom lens, while the regular Pro kept a 3x zoom system.

Kuo explains that Largan, Apple's tetra prism lens supplier, managed to significantly increase production yields from 40% to 70% in Q3 2023. This makes the 5x zoom lens profitable to produce at scale in 2024. As a result, Apple can likely offer the upgraded zoom across all Pro models without increasing prices or supply chain constraints.

Kuo estimates shipments of Largan's tetra prism camera modules will grow 160% year-over-year, fueled by orders from Apple and other customers like Huawei. It's unclear if Huawei's 2024 flagship phones will use a tetra prism or more traditional periscope lens for zoom, as both firms have worked with Largan previously.

Overall, Kuo forecasts strong growth for Huawei's P70, P70 Pro and P70 Art phones launching in H1 2024, predicting 100% shipment growth over the recent P60 series. He notes the P60 has already won acclaim for its camera capabilities, ranked highly by DXOMark testing.