A 5x optical zoom tetra prism lens currently dedicated to the iPhone 15 Pro Max could be headed for both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, narrowing the gap between Apple's premium flagships.

This is according to a new report by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who cites a recent earnings call with Apple's lens supplier Largan. In the call, a Largan spokesperson, presumably referring to the upcoming iPhone Pro model, said that "some flagship specifications will be extended to other models" in late 2024.

"Apple is Largan's largest customer and Largan is also Apple's largest lens supplier." Thus, this quote likely refers to the fact that the new iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will have a tetra prism camera in 2H24 (while only the iPhone 15 Pro Max had this camera in 2H23)."

The report goes on to say that the tetraprism camera on the iPhone 16 Pro series will not be that different from the one on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The lack of upgrades is unfortunate, but not necessarily a bad thing, as this type of lens is already top-of-the-line. It's a significant improvement over the zoom capabilities of previous models, allowing users to take photos with more depth while still fitting into the ultra-thin smartphone. Nevertheless, Apple is revamping the iPhone 16 Pro Max's main camera and ultra-wide camera.

Evidence continues to mount that both iPhone 16 Pro models share the same 5x optical zoom camera. Earlier this week, Asia's DigitTimes (via 9to5Mac) reported that Apple is looking to ramp up orders for tetra prism lenses to expand their use in the upcoming iPhone series. Industry sources report that Largan and Genius Electronic Optical have been selected as key suppliers.

Apple would be wise to streamline a professional-level iPhone with the same camera setup. Of course, until more details are released by Apple, this should all be taken as a grain of sand for now. There is still some time before Apple announces the iPhone, usually in September. Until then, check out the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max hubs for all the rumors so far.