Apple's next flagship, the iPhone 18 Pro, is set to feature a variable aperture lens that will cost 50% more to manufacture than current camera modules, respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported. This upgrade, though costly, promises to revolutionize smartphone photography.
Ming-Chi Kuo, a TF International Securities analyst with a strong track record of accurate Apple predictions, revealed in a recent investor note that the iPhone 18 Pro will debut a variable aperture lens system. This technology, previously seen in some high-end compact cameras and early smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S9, allows the camera to adjust the size of the aperture opening electronically, giving users greater control over depth of field and low-light performance. The cost increase stems from the more complex mechanical and optical components required, estimated at 50% higher than the fixed aperture lenses used in current iPhones.
Variable aperture lenses are a holy grail for mobile photography. They enable a wider aperture (like f/1.4) for brighter photos in dim conditions, and a narrower aperture (like f/4) for sharper images with more in focus during daylight. This flexibility has been absent from recent iPhones, which have relied on computational photography to simulate depth effects. Kuo’s report suggests Apple is doubling down on hardware innovation to differentiate the Pro models.
The iPhone 18 Pro, expected to launch in September 2026, will likely be the first Apple handset to offer this feature. The camera module alone could cost Apple upwards of $60–$70 per unit, compared to roughly $40 for the iPhone 17 Pro’s lens. Other rumored upgrades include a new 48MP sensor and improved image signal processor, but the variable aperture is the headline change.
Industry analysts see this as a strategic move. Apple has been steadily losing ground to Android rivals like Samsung and Xiaomi in camera innovation, particularly with periscope zoom and variable aperture. By investing heavily in a component that directly impacts user experience, Apple signals renewed focus on hardware excellence rather than relying solely on software tricks. However, the higher cost may pressure profit margins or lead to a price increase for the iPhone 18 Pro.
Looking ahead, consumers can expect more detailed leaks and renders as production ramps up. Apple’s supply chain partners, including Largan Precision and Sunny Optical, are said to be gearing up for volume manufacturing. If the variable aperture delivers on its promise, it could set a new standard for smartphone cameras—but the 50% cost hike means Apple must convince buyers that the upgrade is worth the premium. The iPhone 18 Pro launch remains the key milestone to watch in late 2026.
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Apple iPhone 18 Pro To Debut Camera Upgrade That Costs 50% More To Make, Analyst Claims
Respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that the next iPhone camera will have a variable aperture lens, but the manufacturing cost will be much higher.
David Phelan, Senior Contributor
Forbes
3 min read
6/10
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone 18 Pro camera upgrade increases manufacturing costs by 50%, per Ming-Chi Kuo.
- Variable aperture lens allows the camera to adjust from f/1.4 to f/4, improving both low-light and daytime shots.
- This is the first iPhone to adopt variable aperture since the iPhone 7 Plus' telephoto lens fixed aperture.
- Current iPhone 17 Pro camera module costs ~$40; the new module could cost $60–$70.
- Production partners Largan Precision and Sunny Optical are preparing for mass output ahead of a September 2026 launch.
"The cost of the variable aperture lens module is roughly 1.5 times that of the existing fixed aperture module."
Frequently Asked Questions
A variable aperture lens can mechanically change the size of the aperture opening, allowing the camera to let in more or less light. This gives users control over depth of field and brightness in different lighting conditions.
Apple aims to differentiate the iPhone 18 Pro from competitors and previous models by offering superior hardware flexibility. Variable aperture enhances low-light performance and creative control, justifying the higher cost.
The exact retail price impact is unknown, but the camera module alone costs 50% more—roughly $20–$30 extra per unit. Apple may absorb this or pass it on to consumers, potentially raising the Pro model price.
Based on Apple's annual release cycle, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to launch in September 2026. Variable aperture lens production is reportedly ramping up in early 2026.
Ming-Chi Kuo is a TF International Securities analyst known for accurate predictions about Apple products, often based on supply chain checks. His track record includes precise forecasts for previous iPhone features and release dates.
No, Apple has not used variable aperture in any iPhone. Some Android phones, like the Samsung Galaxy S9 and Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra, have featured it, but Apple has relied on fixed apertures and computational photography.
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www.forbes.com
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