The Upcoming iPhone 17 Pro's Alleged 8x Zoom Function Appears Impressive Yet Questionably Practical
The tech world is buzzing with anticipation as rumours swirl about the upcoming iPhone 17 series, set to be unveiled in September 2025. Among the most intriguing rumours is the potential inclusion of an 8x optical zoom camera on the iPhone 17 Pro, a significant upgrade from the current 5x zoom on the iPhone 16 Pro and previous models.
This improvement is expected to offer more reach and flexibility to what is already one of the best camera phones, opening up new possibilities in mobile photography. The new camera system aims to appeal particularly to users who value high-quality, professional-level photography and video features on smartphones.
The 8x zoom is not just a gimmick; it reflects Apple's push to compete with top Android flagships like Samsung's Galaxy Ultra series and Sony Xperia, which have offered long-range zoom for years. The iPhone 17 Pro's rumored continuous 8x optical zoom uses a moving lens element, similar to some Sony Xperia phones, allowing for smooth transition across focal lengths.
However, the usefulness of the 8x zoom may depend on the user's priorities. Photography enthusiasts and professionals are likely to find the expanded zoom and new app invaluable, while casual users might see it as a luxury feature.
The new camera housing predicted for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max could potentially house a periscope lens or other tech to support the new zoom camera. The iPhone's digital zoom is excellent, but there may be a noticeable loss of quality at zoom levels that don't activate the new camera.
The trend of decreasing long-range zoom cameras may limit the usefulness of the 8x zoom camera. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra switched to a 3x camera before reaching the full 10x zoom, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra scaled down its long-range zoom camera from 10x to 5x.
Nevertheless, an 8x zoom camera or a lens that continuously zooms from 5x to 8x could be beneficial for certain users, such as concertgoers, nature photographers, and some portrait photographers. It's worth noting that most flagship phones and some mid-range handsets already have a telephoto camera offering optical zoom through specialized lenses and sensors.
In conclusion, the 8x optical zoom on the iPhone 17 Pro, if the rumours hold true, is a practical and welcome upgrade that enhances the camera system significantly, rather than an example of excess. It reflects a meaningful advancement rather than technology going too far, driven by user demand for better zoom capability on smartphones rather than technology pushing beyond practical use.
As we await the official unveiling of the iPhone 17 series, the anticipation builds, and it's clear that Apple is aiming to set new standards in smartphone photography.
The iPhone 17 Pro's rumored 8x optical zoom true telescopic lens, if accurate, could spark competition among other smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung and Sony, demonstrating Apple's aim to innovate in the realm of gadgets and technology. This anticipated feature may cater to users who prioritize high-quality photography and videography, offering more reach and flexibility in mobile photography.
