Apple will start using technology in the iPhone 17 that Samsung introduced back in 2018
According to the latest leaks, Apple is planning to introduce a variable aperture system in the iPhone 17, which will be a significant change for the cameras of the new iPhones. The technology, first used by Samsung in the Galaxy S9 in 2018, allows you to change the aperture size, improving the quality of photos in different lighting conditions.
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While Samsung abandoned this feature a few years ago, Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and HUAWEI have started using variable aperture in their flagship models again. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, for example, features a one-inch sensor with variable aperture, allowing you to switch between wide and narrow apertures to create vivid shots with bokeh effects or increased depth of field.
It's reported that at least one iPhone 17 model will feature a variable aperture system. Currently, the iPhone uses a combination of multiple lenses and software to simulate the bokeh effect in portrait mode. The introduction of a mechanically adjustable aperture will allow for a more natural bokeh effect and improved focusing even outside of portrait mode. It's still unclear whether Apple will employ switching between two apertures, as implemented by Samsung in the Galaxy S9, or use a more sophisticated stepless aperture control similar to the one used in Xiaomi's latest flagship.
Source: Android Authority