iPhone 18 Pro Exclusive: Apple CEO John Ternus on why the new variable aperture camera is the ‘best of both worlds’

Apple CEO John Ternus highlighted the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, emphasizing their standout feature: the variable aperture main camera. This innovative technology, equipped with laser-cut blades in the 48MP lens, allows for dynamic light control, resulting in superior low-light photos and enhanced creative options. The camera offers four aperture settings: f/1.48, f/1.8, f/2.8, and f/4.0, with each setting catering to specific photography needs.

For portrait shots, the iPhone 18 Pro may choose f/1.48, maximizing light intake and adding a beautiful background blur. Conversely, for group photos where maintaining sharpness across all subjects is crucial, the camera can opt for f/4.0, ensuring maximum depth of field. This adaptive aperture system provides unprecedented control, enabling users to effortlessly switch between settings based on the desired outcome.

Additionally, Apple introduced Pro controls, empowering photography enthusiasts to manually adjust aperture, shutter speed, and focus. These features, previously limited to third-party apps like Halide, now reside within the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, delivering the "best of both worlds" – convenience for casual users and depth for photography aficionados.