Updated
Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Jul 17
iPhone 18 Pro Max Log Confirms Variable Aperture Camera as Price May Rise $200
Updated
Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Jul 17

iPhone 18 Pro Max Log Confirms Variable Aperture Camera as Price May Rise $200

3 articles · Updated · Notebookcheck.net · Jul 17

Summary

  • A leaked diagnostics log from Tata Electronics confirms the iPhone 18 Pro Max will use a Sony IMX905 main camera with variable aperture, backing an earlier report of a sensor swap.
  • The log shows pixel size stays at 1.22μm, indicating the upgrade centers on the new aperture mechanism rather than a larger sensor; calibration data tied to the actuator appears in the sensor's non-volatile memory.
  • Other rear and front camera components appear unchanged from the iPhone 17 Pro Max, including the Sony IMX973 telephoto, IMX972 ultrawide, IMX591 LiDAR receiver and IMX914 selfie camera.
  • Variable aperture is already common on some rival flagships, but it would be a first for iPhone when the iPhone 18 lineup is expected to launch in September 2026.
  • Apple has not commented on the leak, and the Pro Max model could still see an average $200 price increase tied partly to higher camera and memory production costs.

Insights

With a leaked $200 price hike, is the iPhone 18 Pro's new camera a game-changer or just expensive catch-up?
As a split launch looms and prices rise, is Apple creating a new ultra-premium tier, leaving mainstream buyers behind?
After a supplier leak exposed its secrets, is Apple's famously secure hardware ecosystem now fundamentally compromised?