September 10, 2026, 10:01 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Higher prices, more performance, and longer battery life are also part of the package for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. However, the real excitement lies in a camera feature that has traditionally been reserved for classic cameras. TECHBOOK was live on-site at Apple.
Variable Aperture Brings New Possibilities
With the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple introduces a variable aperture in the main camera for the first time. This technology adjusts the light intake according to the shooting situation, offering more creative control for photos and videos. While smartphone cameras have typically used a fixed aperture, the new system can create different effects directly through the hardware.
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The hands-on experience highlighted the advantage, especially in portraits and landscape shots. For stronger background blur, aperture settings of f/1.48 and f/1.8 are available. For more depth of field, users can switch to f/2.8 or f/4. Six small blades regulate the camera’s opening. Apple automatically adjusts the settings by default but also allows manual adjustments.
Showtime at Apple! What Can the New iPhone 18 Pro Do?
iPhone 18 to Feature Completely New Camera
New Pro Features Directly in iOS
In line with the new camera, Apple is expanding the camera app with additional pro tools. Users can manually adjust focus, white balance, and shutter speed. Additionally, a histogram is being introduced into the standard app for the first time. Such features were previously mostly reserved for third-party applications.
Apple is positioning the iPhone 18 Pro more strongly as a tool for photo and video enthusiasts. The new controls can be individually arranged or hidden. Those who want maximum control over their shots will no longer necessarily need to install additional camera apps.
More Performance, More Battery, and Higher Prices
In addition to the camera, Apple has also updated the technology under the hood. The new A20 Pro chip is manufactured using a two-nanometer process and is said to offer about 20 percent more computing power, according to the manufacturer. At the same time, graphics performance increases by up to 40 percent. A larger vapor chamber is also intended to provide better cooling.
The battery life has also improved. Apple claims up to 36 hours of video playback for the iPhone 18 Pro. The larger iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to reach up to 45 hours. However, buyers will have to dig deeper into their pockets. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at 1,449 euros with 256 gigabytes of storage, while the Pro Max starts at 1,599 euros. Despite the higher prices, the new camera is likely to attract many interested buyers.