0In the new lineup, the iPhone periscope lens has been introduced in the Pro Max model. If not long ago people marveled at multiple cameras on the back of smartphones, today there are devices with a so-called periscope camera. The cost of such devices is noticeably higher, but is there any sense in it? What is this camera, what are its advantages, and is it really necessary?
Technology Overview
The classic camera arrangement in a phone implies that the optical module is positioned perpendicular to the display. It is essentially located behind the smartphone screen, facing the opposite direction. This allows achieving a maximum of two times magnification. It's not possible to go beyond that because the optics' glass will encounter the thickness of the camera. What to do in this case?
The solution has long been invented. It was borrowed from the periscope device, an optical instrument for observing from a concealed position. The device consists of a curved tube with three parts:
- Viewing window – eyepiece (viewfinder) where a person looks;
- Tube – rises from the shelter to the required height;
- Optics – observes the surroundings.
The viewing window and optics are connected to the tube at a 90-degree angle from the top and bottom ends. Inside the structure, there are two mirrors that refract light at right angles, allowing it to pass through two turns.
The periscope in a phone operates on the same principle. In it, optics serve as a light-transmitting window, and the tube is a system of lenses, similar to a telephoto lens. The latter projects the image onto the sensor. As a result, the system is positioned across the smartphone, resembling the letter "L." The manufacturer utilizes the width of the phone, not its thickness, concealing a telephoto lens with a complex lens system to achieve optical zoom. For example, in the iPhone 15 periscope allows for 5x magnification.
Comparison with Existing Tech
Now, let's take a look at the mechanics of how cameras work in modern smartphones. Today, there are two main methods of zooming:
- Optical Zoom: This is a classic scheme where the image is zoomed in by moving glass lenses relative to each other. The amount of light reaching the sensor remains unchanged. The focus is brought closer, and the number of points remains the same. This results in a vibrant and detailed photograph. Optical zoom is often referred to as a telescopic lens.
- Digital Zoom: This is the most common method. Manufacturers usually specify, for example, 10x digital zoom, but with a caveat. Initially, the camera magnifies the object optically, and then it simply zooms in on the image by increasing the size of pixels. For example, optical magnification might be 2x, and digital magnification could be 10x. Naturally, digital zoom tends to blur the image, even when applying AI.
Using a powerful optical zoom in a modern device is quite challenging. To achieve this, the camera would need to extend beyond the limits of the device's body. It's not feasible to conceal a complex lens system within a device with a thickness of 8-15 mm; they wouldn't function properly. However, there is a solution: the periscope camera. It enables the installation of a telescopic lens inside the device's body without altering its thickness.
Implementation in iPhones
The periscope option is a prerogative of advanced and expensive models, flagships. The pioneer of solution was HUAWEI with their P30 Pro model. In addition, such a lens was used in:
- Galaxy S23 Ultra;
- vivo X90 Pro+;
- Xiaomi 12S Ultra.
Finally, Apple has joined them and introduced into the iPhone 15 periscope camera. But, as always, there are nuances.
Due to the high cost of components, the iPhone camera periscope has appeared only in the Max for now. Before the release of the latest lineup, insiders assumed that the cost of such a photo module would be up to $15 instead of the usual $1.5-2. But people hope that within a year, the technology will reach the regular Pro model.
The presence of the iPhone 15 periscope lens allows the phone to use 5x without loss of quality. Recall that the smartphone is equipped with a quad-camera setup with a main 48 MP sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, an iPhone 15 telephoto lens of 12 MP, and an iPhone 15 zoom lens of 12 MP.
Future Implications
Certainly, the primary advantage of such types of cameras is the quality of the photos themselves. In contrast to other technologies, the iPhone periscope zoom ensures top-notch image quality when zooming. The robust stabilization function also eliminates noise in both photos and videos.
Another notable advantage is macroscopic photography. There is no need to get extremely close to the object you want to capture. This is especially beneficial for close-up shots of architectural structures, natural objects from various angles, and so on. If the quality of photos plays one of the most crucial roles in choosing a smartphone for you, be sure to consider models with a periscope. Although their cost is significantly higher, it is worth it.
One of the drawbacks of such a camera module is its bulkiness. Therefore, even if the smartphone model itself is thin enough, the camera block will protrude. Many will solve this problem with a regular silicone case, and for many, this may not be a disadvantage at all.
The second nuance is the lack of sufficient lighting during shooting. In its absence, the capabilities of the periscope are significantly reduced. The third drawback is the cost. Perhaps over time, smartphones with such a camera will slightly decrease in price.
In conclusion, the need for a periscope is far from essential for every user. In most cases, a standard high-quality camera setup is sufficient. In other cases, it is a good option for a flagship model that will deliver high-quality photos with the finest details.
Most likely, the technology will continue to evolve, and there will be searches for solutions on how to make it cheaper without significantly increasing the phone's body. However, the periscope lens iPhone 15 provides users with new opportunities for photography.
