According to reliable industry sources, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models will feature a trio of 48-megapixel sensors in their rear camera systems. This includes a 48MP main Fusion lens, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and an advanced 48MP telephoto lens utilizing a cutting-edge “Tetraprism” design. For those who found the 12MP telephoto lens on the iPhone 16 Pro somewhat limiting, this enhancement is expected to deliver a noticeable improvement in detail and versatility.
The Tetraprism telephoto lens stands out as one of the most intriguing upgrades. Originally forecasted by TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the lens is designed to optimize zoom quality while maintaining a compact form factor. It is rumored to offer 5x optical zoom and features a hybrid construction combining glass and plastic elements to enhance image sharpness. This innovative approach could address concerns about bulky camera modules while providing users with a more refined zoom experience.
In addition to the rear camera upgrades, Apple is reportedly focusing on significant improvements to the front-facing camera. The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to feature a new 24-megapixel front camera, doubling the resolution of its predecessor. This camera will reportedly include a six-element lens to deliver sharper, distortion-free images and improved low-light performance. Analysts Jeff Pu and Ming-Chi Kuo have highlighted the front camera as a key selling point, particularly for users who prioritize video calls and social media content creation.
These advancements align with Apple’s trajectory of incremental yet meaningful improvements to its camera systems. The iPhone 16 Pro introduced a 48MP ultra-wide lens, but the telephoto lens remained at 12MP, leaving room for enhancement. With the iPhone 17 Pro models, Apple is moving toward uniformity across its rear camera setup, aiming for a balance of detail, dynamic range, and low-light capabilities. These upgrades promise to appeal to a broad spectrum of users, from casual photographers to professionals seeking cutting-edge features in a compact device.
Design adjustments are also expected to accompany the enhanced hardware. Rumors suggest a new half-aluminum, half-glass back cover and a rectangular camera module tailored to accommodate the updated camera system. These design elements are anticipated to offer both aesthetic appeal and functional improvements, ensuring the phones remain lightweight and ergonomic despite the upgraded hardware.
Notably, these enhancements may not be limited to the Pro models. Reports suggest that the entire iPhone 17 lineup, including the standard models and a new lightweight “iPhone 17 Air,” will benefit from the upgraded 24MP front-facing camera. While the non-Pro models may not feature the same advanced rear camera systems, the improvements to the front camera are likely to resonate with a wide range of users.
The potential impact of these upgrades on video recording capabilities is particularly exciting. With all three rear cameras equipped with 48MP sensors, the video quality could see a significant boost in terms of detail, color accuracy, and low-light performance. Additionally, the enhanced telephoto lens may offer more versatile video capture, particularly for distant subjects, while the upgraded front camera could improve video call and livestream quality.
(via Weibo)
