The iPhone 15 series has been officially released, and one of the most exciting features is the upgraded camera system on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. The camera system on the Pro models has always been a key factor for users, and this year Apple has made sure that the camera systems on different iPhone models are even more distinct.
Apple claims that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max have “seven pro lenses in your pocket.” While the phones only have three actual cameras on the back, Apple utilizes these cameras in a way that makes it feel like you have seven cameras at your disposal. However, is this claim actually true, and is it the most impressive aspect of the new camera system?
In terms of the camera situation on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the highly anticipated 5x zoom camera on the iPhone 15 Pro Max might not be the biggest reason to upgrade this year. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. Apple has introduced other enhancements that may have a greater real-world impact on the quality of your photos.
One of the significant changes in the camera system of the new Pro iPhones is that they no longer share the same system. The iPhone 15 Pro Max now features an exclusive 5x optical zoom camera, while the iPhone 15 Pro settles for a 3x optical zoom lens, similar to last year’s model.
In terms of the optical/lossless zoom range, the iPhone 15 Pro offers macro-mode, 0.5x, 1x, 1.2x, 1.5x, 2x, 3x, and 15x maximum digital zoom. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max offers macro-mode, 0.5x, 1x, 1.2x, 1.5x, 2x, 5x, and 25x maximum digital zoom. It’s worth noting that the Pixel 7 Pro can do up to 50x digital zoom, and the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers 100x.
Apple’s claim of having “seven camera lenses” is technically true when you break it down. However, it’s important to remember that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max still have only three physical cameras. Apple’s 2x sensor-crop zoom is one of the best on the market, providing optical quality and working with video as well. Additionally, the new 28mm and 35mm focal lengths offered by the main camera of the iPhone 15 Pro provide more options for photographers.
Moving on to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, its 5x zoom camera is a standout feature. Apple has taken a unique approach with its design, utilizing a “Tetraprism” mirror instead of a traditional periscope zoom design. This allows for a larger image sensor and better low-light capabilities. The 5x zoom camera is also the brightest on any phone, with an f/2.8 aperture. Apple promises advanced stabilization with 3D sensor-shift OIS and improved autofocus for smoother zoomed shots.
It’s worth noting that the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s zoom camera is still a 12MP sensor, so it doesn’t offer the same level of sensor-cropping as other phones. However, Apple may have future upgrades in mind for upcoming models.
In summary, while Apple’s claim of “seven lenses” is technically accurate, the usefulness of these additional lenses is subjective. The new camera system on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max offers enhancements that may have a more significant impact on everyday photography. Overall, Apple has made notable improvements to its camera system, providing users with more options and better image quality.
