Latest news with #mobilephotography
Digital Trends
a day ago
- Business
- Digital Trends
Apple should make an iPhone 17 Ultra and copy these phone cameras
The iPhone has long been recognized as a leader in both mobile photography, but in recent years, companies from across the globe have aimed to dethrone it. Five years ago, Samsung launched its Ultra series, which includes the latest Galaxy S25 Ultra. More recently, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi have all launched Ultra competitors that have broken new barriers in mobile photography and videography. Fast forward to this year, and Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 17 Air, a new thin with a single camera designed to usher in a thinner, lighter era for smartphones. Yet, the iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a camera powerhouse, albeit one that's limited by Apple's imagination and willingness to be the best in mobile photography. Recommended Videos For the past few months, I've used all four main Ultra phones for a variety of photos and tested them against the iPhone 16 Pro, which has the same camera as its bigger brother. The results have left me convinced that Apple should launch an iPhone 17 Ultra and copy these features from its rival Ultra phones. Here's how the iPhone 16 Pro compares and why Apple should finally push the Ultra barrier. How each camera compares Let's take a quick look at the main spec differences between each phone camera and how Apple's best smartphone camera right now stacks up. iPhone 16 Pro Galaxy S25 Ultra Vivo X200 Ultra Oppo Find X8 Ultra Primary Camera 48MP, f/1.8 24mm, OIS Size: 1/1.28' 200MP, f/1.7 24mm, OIS Size: 1/1.3' 50MP, f/1.7 35mm, OIS Size: 1/1.28' 50MP, f/1.8 23mm, OIS Size: 1-inch Ultra-wide camera 48MP, f/2.2 13mm, PDAF 50MP, f/1.9 PDAF 50MP, f/2.0 14mm, OIS 50MP, f/2.0 15mm, PDAF Telephoto Camera 1 12MP, f/2.8 120mm, OIS 5x optical zoom 10MP, f/2.4 67mm, OIS 3x optical 200MP, f/2.3 85mm, OIS 3.7x optical Macro: 3.4:1 50MP, f/2.1 70mm, OIS 3x optical Macro: 10cm Telephoto Camera 2 – 50MP, f/3.4 111mm, OIS 5x optical – 50MP, f/3.1 135mm, OIS 6x optical Macro: 35cm Max zoom 25x 100x 120x 120x Other 3D LiDAR scanner (depth) Laser autofocus Zeiss Optics Add-on zoom lens: 200mm, 2.35x Hasselblad Colors, Laser, Color Spectrum sensor Selfie Camera 12MP, f/1.9 23mm, OIS 12MP, f/2.2 26mm 50MP, f/2.5 AF 32MP, f/2.4 PDAF Examining the specs sheet reveals the key issues with Apple's current approach compared to the best smartphone cameras. First, there's the distinct lack of a secondary telephoto camera, or failing that, one capable of AI-powered zoom at larger magnifications. Then, there's the poor quality selfie camera. Finally, there's the smaller sensor sizes. Each of the Ultra competitors solves one or more of these issues, and as we'll see, that makes a significant difference to the overall pictures captured. Let's take a look. few common differences between the iPhone 16 Pro and its Ultra competitors. First, most competitors feature dual telephoto lenses, and all but Samsung offer a minimum capture distance of just 10cm. The net result is far better zoom capabilities than those available on an iPhone today. The iPhone 16 Pro is also limited to just 25x zoom, and there is significant degradation past 10x. Meanwhile, Samsung is strong at up to 30x, and Oppo, Xiaomi, and Vivo all prove capable at up to 100x zoom. To take it a step further, Vivo and Xiaomi also offer add-on lenses that can significantly extend the zoom. Let's take a closer look at how each camera compares to the iPhone 16 Pro and what lessons Apple can learn from its chief rivals. Comparing to the Galaxy S25 Ultra in Dubai Huawei was the first to make periscope telephoto lenses popular on smartphones, but Samsung was the first to define the term Ultra in smartphones. The Galaxy S20 Ultra delivered exceptional zoom, and one key selling point was the performance at higher magnifications. The iPhone 16 Pro is limited to a maximum magnification of 25x, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra can go up to 100x. You likely won't use that on the latter, but it does mean great performance at the 30x magnification, as we'll see. Galaxy S25 Ultra (left), iPhone 16 Pro (right) At 1x, both phones are fairly evenly matched under the Dubai sunshine, although the Galaxy S25 Ultra has much better color reproduction thanks to the higher saturation. While the iPhone 16 Pro is technically more accurate, Samsung's color science has always skewed towards saturated, and it works wonders for landscapes and scenes like this. 5x zoom photo captured with 5x telephoto lens: Galaxy S25 Ultra (left), iPhone 16 Pro (right) Both phones feature a periscope lens offering 5x optical zoom, so how do they compare? This is probably the best indication of the difference in the overall results with that lens, and looking closely at these results shows that Apple's lower resolution 12MP telephoto struggles to match the detail captured by the 50MP telephoto on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Apple's color science once again skews natural, but this is less of a concern in this scene. 10x comparison: Galaxy S25 Ultra (top), iPhone 16 Pro (bottom) The power of two telephoto lenses starts to kick in once we go into hybrid or digital zoom. Comparing the same 10x photo captured on both phones, the degradation in the iPhone 16 Pro zoom photo has become obvious. The degradation is fairly subtle so the finaly image is still completely usable, but it's definitely visible. 30x Galaxy S25 Ultra (left) vs iPhone 16 Pro 25x (right) Rounding off this comparison at 30x, the iPhone 16 Pro photo has actually improved over the quality in the previous photo. This isn't always the case, and there are plenty of other examples of higher degradation at these magnifications, but here the differences are more nuanced. The iPhone 16 Pro picture has better colors but lesser detail, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra has better detail but a less visually appealing photo. Throughout the past four months, I've yielded similar results to these. Like the Google Pixel 9 Pro, the iPhone 16 Pro is limited in its zoom capabilities, but considering the Pro Max version is priced at $200 below the Galaxy S25 Ultra, these phones are all designed to compete against each other. For Apple, Samsung doesn't pose the largest threat. Rather, it's the innovation by other companies to push the boundaries of smartphone photography. Vivo and Oppo both have incredible phones that pose a threat to Apple's camera appeal in the biggest smartphone markets in the world (outside of the US, where they're not available). Comparing to the Oppo Find X8 Ultra and Vivo X200 Ultra in Paris Vivo has been pushing the boundaries with smartphone cameras for years, and the Vivo X200 Ultra is no different. It's an incredible all-around smartphone that shows you don't need a secondary telephoto to capture incredible photos. The triple camera setup on the X200 Ultra prioritizes parity between lenses so that you can shoot with any lens and get similar results with minimal loss of quality. The one key downside to the Vivo X200 Ultra is the starting 35mm focal length; while it's designed to replicate what your eye can see, it makes comparisons really hard and feels jarring when you come from the wider cameras on most phones. Oppo has taken a somewhat different approach with the Find X8 Ultra. It's designed to have parity between the different lenses, ensuring that you don't suddenly lose quality in a photo or video when you switch between the different lenses. It includes two periscope telephoto lenses and while there are differences between the color science across the four lenses, maintaining parity in the resolution is a worthwhile endeavor. During a recent trip to Paris, I managed to test these three cameras out. Let's first start at the Eiffel Tower. For these lower magnifications, the Vivo has the brightest image but the Oppo captures the most detail. The iPhone 16 Pro mostly keeps up with its rivals, but the trend continues with images lacking color and vibrancy. As we go above 5x, the iPhone starts to struggle as it has done consistently throughout my testing. This is the biggest issue with Apple's approach to the camera: it doesn't heavily use AI to enhance captured photos, and it lacks the hardware to offer strong zoom at above 5x magnification. It's a problem that would be solved with a secondary, longer telephoto lens. Alongside daytime, both the Oppo Find X8 Ultra and Vivo X200 Ultra have proven extremely capable at night as we'll see below. Although the iPhone 16 Pro does struggle with zoom, it's still incredibly capable in lowlight. Here it has my favorite overall photo, as it has less flare from the lights and the photo visually appears to be clearer. There's little difference between Oppo and Vivo, but Apple is the winner here. This was an interesting test as there's a lot of detail, there's street lights providing background glow and it would challenge many phones. The Vivo X200 Ultra fails to capture the correct light balance here, but it captures the most detail. The lighting is slightly warm on the iPhone, but it takes the most balanced photo overall again. Without doubt, the Oppo Find X8 Ultra has the best all-around set of pictures in this scene. In particular, the 3x photo is fantastic as the phone adjusts for lens flare from the bulbs underneath the canopy, which makes the scene sharper. I dislike the Vivo's odd focal lengths again, as they feel strange but that's a personal preference. Vivo's photos are perfectly fine here, although it struggles with some of the lighting. The iPhone does well overall, but it overexposes most scenes resulting in less vibrant images. Testing the portrait mode I saved the best for last: the Oppo Find X8 Ultra is my current smartphone camera of choice, for everything from capturing memories to capturing content on new gadgets. Most of the content I use on social media, in articles, and even in video has been captured on the Find X8 Ultra, which proves to be the most versatile smartphone camera I've ever used. I've found that parity amongst the lenses works wonders during regular use, and the use of a 1-inch sensor in the main camera means you can get incredible light. It has f/1.6 aperture, which also allows it to capture stunning bokeh. It's fast become my favorite portrait mode hardware, although I still prefer Samsung's color point mode. Here's some comparison of the portrait mode across all three devices. The larger sensor of the Oppo Find X8 Ultra helps capture far more light, and the color spectrum sensor works wonders in ensuring that white balance remains accurate throughout the image. At both focal lengths, the Oppo takes the best photo, but Apple isn't far behind so better hardware and finer tuning could yield these results from an iPhone. The final test yields a clear victory for Apple. Despite the different focal lengths (these were all captured at the maximum permitted in the camera's viewfinder), there's fantastic color reproduction and dynamic range in the picture captured on the iPhone. The Oppo Find X8 Ultra is close behind, but the Vivo X200 Ultra is too aggressive in smoothening skin tones and textures. Why Apple should embrace the Ultra culture There are several reasons why Apple should adopt the trend of launching an Ultra smartphone with the very best mobile photography capabilities. The main one is obvious: Apple has positioned the iPhone as a creator's dream, but while it's the best for video, an Ultra phone would also allow it to be one of the best for photos. Beyond this, however, there are four main reasons. First, Samsung has proven that Ultra cameras make sense. The higher sale price, likely higher margin, and ability to attract people who are price-insensitive all make sense in Apple's current business model. Second, Samsung's cameras will eventually match the iPhone for video, meaning Apple will need to compete in photography as well. Third, Apple would inspire an ecosystem of additional products. Companies like Moment have built entire additional ecosystems around photography and videography on the iPhone, but providing them with better hardware would inspire the next generation of mobile photography apps and services. Fourth and finally, product differentiation. The rumored thin iPhone 17 Air and reported low sales of current-generation phones, such as the iPhone 16 Plus, suggest that Apple's lineup may have stagnated. An iPhone 17 Ultra (or future generation) would offer a product that can stand alone from its siblings. Considering the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be the more expensive phone in the lineup, an Ultra model could help Apple push even higher pricing. For now, this is the Ultra phone to use Unsurprisingly, the Oppo Find X8 Ultra remains my smartphone camera of choice, at least for photography. The iPhone will stay in my pocket for video (and as my primary phone for sensitive apps), but the Oppo Find X8 Ultra will continue to be my phone of choice for all my photos. Although the Vivo X200 Ultra takes better photos than its rivals at many focal lengths, I've found that Oppo is slightly better at others, and I prefer Oppo's color science. Furthermore, ColorOS is far smoother, with a more intuitive interface that allows for quick changes to settings and features. Then there's the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the only Ultra phone you can buy in the US. I hope that Samsung adopts a 1-inch sensor in a future Ultra phone, as well as better telephoto cameras, which would likely bring it to parity with the competition. For now, at least it still has the best portrait mode of any smartphone.
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Apple's iPhone may soon get a 200MP camera: Here's what we know
Apple's iPhone has long been synonymous with cutting-edge mobile photography, setting benchmarks not only in hardware design but also in image quality. However, when it comes to raw megapixel counts, Apple has historically taken a more conservative route—prioritising image quality and software optimisation over sheer numbers. That philosophy could soon shift dramatically. According to a leak shared by Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station, Apple is working on a massive camera upgrade that would catapult the iPhone's main sensor from the current 48MP to a staggering 200MP in a future model. Until recently, Apple resisted the megapixel arms race led by Android competitors. It wasn't until the iPhone 14 Pro that Apple made the leap from a 12MP wide camera to a 48MP sensor—a shift that finally arrived years after Samsung and others had introduced higher-MP lenses. Today, the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts: A 48MP main (wide) camera with dual-pixel autofocus and advanced sensor-shift OIS A 48MP ultra-wide camera offering macro and wide-angle capabilities A 12MP telephoto lens with up to 5x optical zoom A 12MP front camera, expected to be upgraded to 24MP in the iPhone 17 These upgrades have helped the iPhone maintain its position as a top choice for both casual users and mobile photography professionals. But the rumoured 200MP jump suggests Apple is preparing for a more aggressive stance in hardware innovation. While Samsung debuted its 200MP sensor with the Galaxy S23 Ultra two years ago, Apple has historically waited until the technology matures before implementing it. This strategy allows them to refine image processing and mitigate common issues associated with high-MP sensors, such as increased image noise and slower low-light performance. The leak does not specify when this upgrade will materialise, but several timelines are being speculated: 2026–2027: To mark the 20th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple could unveil this feature as a headline innovation for an iPhone Pro or Ultra model. iPhone Fold: Another possible candidate is Apple's long-rumoured foldable iPhone. Expected to carry a premium price tag, a 200MP camera could serve as a signature feature to justify its positioning. iPhone 18 or beyond: Given Apple's measured pace, the 200MP upgrade may take a few generations, arriving only once the company is confident it can deliver best-in-class results. Despite the impressive spec jump, more megapixels doesn't automatically mean better photos. High-MP sensors tend to suffer from smaller individual pixels, which can lead to more image noise, particularly in low light. Apple will need to pair this new sensor with smarter image processing, improved stabilisation, and perhaps even new hardware like variable aperture or stacked sensors to maintain image quality. In the meantime, the upcoming iPhone 17 is expected to feature a new 24MP front-facing camera and a 48MP telephoto lens for the Pro models—continuing Apple's incremental but consistent camera improvements. If the leak holds true, Apple's jump to a 200MP sensor would mark a turning point in its camera strategy.
Geeky Gadgets
4 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
A HUGE Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Surprise Just LEAKED!
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is poised to set new benchmarks in the flagship smartphone market, showcasing advancements in camera technology, chipset strategies, and manufacturing processes. These updates reflect Samsung's commitment to innovation and cost optimization, making sure the company remains competitive in an ever-evolving global market. By addressing consumer demands and industry trends, the Galaxy S26 series aims to deliver a product lineup that balances innovative features with practical usability. Camera Innovations: Elevating Mobile Photography The Galaxy S26 series is expected to introduce a 50MP wide camera sensor, likely from Samsung's ISOCELL GN family, which promises to enhance light capture and improve image detail. This sensor is designed to deliver superior image processing capabilities, making it a standout feature for photography enthusiasts. If implemented, this upgrade could elevate the base Galaxy S26 model, offering professional-grade photography tools to a wider audience. Rumors also suggest a potential shift in the lineup, with the Galaxy S26 Plus being replaced by a Galaxy S26 Edge variant. This strategic move could make advanced camera technology more accessible, aligning with Samsung's goal of providing widespread access to high-quality imaging. By addressing the growing demand for smartphones that excel in photography, Samsung is reinforcing its position as a leader in mobile imaging technology. Chipset Strategy: Balancing Performance and Market Needs Samsung's chipset strategy for the Galaxy S26 series highlights a balanced approach to performance and market-specific needs. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset globally, making sure consistent and reliable performance across major markets. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 and the rumored S26 Edge are likely to incorporate Samsung's in-house Exynos 2600 chipset in most regions, with Snapdragon variants reserved for select markets such as the US, Japan, South Korea, and China. This dual-chipset strategy reflects Samsung's adaptability in addressing regional preferences while using its own Exynos technology. Notably, the absence of a 'for Galaxy' Snapdragon variant in 2024 is linked to delays in Samsung Foundry's SF2 node, which is anticipated to become production-ready by late 2026. This delay underscores the challenges of aligning technological innovation with manufacturing readiness, a critical factor in the competitive smartphone industry. Manufacturing Advancements: A Focus on Efficiency The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset will be manufactured by TSMC, a global leader in semiconductor production. However, Samsung's long-term vision involves transitioning to its own SF2 manufacturing process, which could result in significant cost savings for both Qualcomm and Samsung while maintaining high performance standards. This shift represents a strategic move to enhance production efficiency and reduce reliance on external suppliers. The SF2 node is a pivotal development in Samsung Foundry's roadmap. Once operational, it could enable the production of custom 'for Galaxy' chips, further differentiating Samsung's flagship devices in a highly competitive market. By investing in advanced manufacturing processes, Samsung is demonstrating its commitment to innovation and cost optimization without compromising on quality or performance. Market Implications: Adapting to Changing Trends The Galaxy S26 series could signify a major shift in Samsung's product strategy, potentially becoming the first lineup to feature three distinct chipsets. This bold approach allows Samsung to cater to diverse consumer needs while exploring new avenues for product differentiation. Additionally, the rumored replacement of the Plus model with the Edge variant suggests a recalibration of product positioning, aimed at appealing to a broader audience. These changes come at a time when the smartphone market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by consumer demand for innovative hardware and seamless user experiences. By prioritizing innovation, cost efficiency, and adaptability, Samsung is positioning itself as a leader in the flagship segment, ready to meet the expectations of a discerning customer base. What Lies Ahead The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch early next year, offering a glimpse into the future of flagship smartphones. With advancements in camera technology, a refined chipset strategy, and a focus on manufacturing excellence, Samsung is set to deliver a compelling product lineup that could redefine industry standards. As more details emerge, the Galaxy S26 series is shaping up to be a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile technology, promising to set new benchmarks for innovation and performance. Stay updated as Samsung continues to push the boundaries of what flagship smartphones can achieve. Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. Source & Image Credit: Demon's Tech Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy
Phone Arena
23-05-2025
- Phone Arena
The phone with the Best Battery Life of 2025 is getting a compact redo and four colors
Another day, another compact flagship to drool over: now, it's Vivo's turn to amaze us. Enter the Vivo X200 FE. As the name suggests, this will be another, fifth, device in the X200 family that consist so far of: Vivo X200 Ultra Vivo X200 Pro Vivo X200 Vivo X200 Pro mini It's not just that the X200 series is an amazing lineup of top-notch mobile photography tools. The Vivo X200 Ultra has the best overall battery life of any phone we tested in the last two years, and that should be enough of a reason to pay close attention to the upcoming X200 FE model. Vivo X200 Ultra. | Image by PhoneArena Vivo is reportedly preparing to launch the new compact flagship, as suggested by recent appearances on multiple certification platforms. The device has just been listed on a Thailand database, confirming both its official name and model number (V2503), signaling that an official launch may be near. It has also been approved by Europe's EEC authority, suggesting that a broader international release is on the horizon. Earlier sightings of the X200 FE on certification sites such as Malaysia's SIRIM and Germany's TUV reinforce speculation that the phone will have a global rollout, including a potential launch in India expected around July (or late June). Though detailed specifications have not yet been confirmed by these certifications, leaks suggest the device will feature a 6.31-inch LTPO OLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is rumored to carry a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP periscope camera, along with a 50MP front-facing shooter. Under the hood, the X200 FE is expected to be powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 9400e chipset and equipped with a 6,500 mAh battery, supporting 90W fast charging. The device will likely run FunTouch OS 15 based on Android 15. In India, the phone is anticipated to be available in two storage configurations: 12 GB RAM with 256 GB storage and 16 GB RAM with 512 GB details from tipster Paras Guglani further suggest that the Vivo X200 FE will come in four color options: It could be officially launched in the second half of June, per the tipster's information. The device is also believed to be a rebranded version of the Vivo S30 Pro Mini, but we'll confirm that in some weeks time. The phone is set to debut in China, naturally. The industry is throwing compact flagships at us so often – just think of OnePlus and its upcoming OnePlus 13T, a.k.a. OnePlus 13s: tiny body, huge battery! Gotta love 2025!
Gulf Business
23-05-2025
- Gulf Business
Portraits, productivity and price: Why the new AI-powered HONOR 400 Series appeals
Images: Supplied In a fast-evolving smartphone market where devices are often indistinguishable at first glance, the newly launched HONOR 400 Series is taking a distinctly different path. Debuted in Dubai under the theme 'HONOR AI Wonderverse', the launch subtly signalled the phone's broader ambition — to merge heritage with advanced intelligence. At first sight, the HONOR 400 and 400 Pro appear refined, with design choices inspired by natural elements and available in a palette that includes Midnight Black, Meteor Silver, and Desert Gold for the standard model, and Tidal Blue and Lunar Grey for the Pro. But beneath the surface, the devices stand out not for just how they look, but for how they allow users to interact, create, and connect differently. A smarter, cooler way to create The heart of the Other tools like AI Upscale, AI Cutout, and AI Eyes Open offer thoughtful solutions to everyday challenges, whether reviving old, pixelated photos or fixing closed eyes in group shots. These aren't just cosmetic tweaks — they offer users a fresh, efficient approach to image editing that aligns with how people now share and consume content. Designed for real life using AI The HONOR 400 Pro's 200MP Ultra-Clear AI Camera System sets a benchmark for mobile photography. The AI-powered portrait tools and up to 50x zoom (30x on the HONOR 400) cater to users who want more precision and clarity — whether shooting landscapes or spontaneous portraits. Features like AI Portrait Snap aim to make it easier to capture moving subjects with accurate focus and natural background blur. This focus on creative flexibility is supported by MagicOS 9.0, HONOR's latest operating system, which builds on Android 15. It integrates tools like AI Subtitles, AI Translation, deepfake identification and AI Magic Portal 2.0, creating a more intelligent and personalised user experience. For users managing devices across ecosystems, HONOR Connect enables seamless syncing between Android and iOS, making device transitions less of a chore. Honor 400 Series: Practical performers The innovation isn't limited to AI. The series also brings solid hardware creds. A 6000mAh battery powers both devices, while the HONOR 400 Pro includes 100W SuperCharge, reducing downtime dramatically. Both models are water and dust resistant, with the Pro variant rated IP68 and IP69, good features for users on the move. As part of HONOR's ongoing partnership with Google, the 400 Series will also be among the first to receive Android updates for six years, including security updates through 2030, an offering that gives users longevity without the pressure to upgrade too soon. Early access and added value Pre-orders are now open, starting at Dhs1,399 for the HONOR 400 and Dhs2,499 for the Pro model. Buyers receive a package of added benefits, including free earbuds, phone cases (including Louvre Abu Dhabi collaborations), and 12-month HONOR Care plans covering accidental damage and regional warranties. The series will be available across major retailers like Amazon, noon, Sharaf DG, Emax, Carrefour, Etisalat by e&, and more. Read:
