iPhone 16 Series Camera Specs Leaked: ProRAW, JPEG-XL, and a New Camera Button

iPhone 16 Series Camera Specs Leaked: ProRAW, JPEG-XL, and a New Camera ButtonThe camera specifications for Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro series have been leaked, revealing a slew of exciting upgrades for users. A key highlight of the 16 series is the introduction of a new JPEG-XL image format, joining existing formats like HEIF and JPEG, offering higher image quality and smaller file sizes

iPhone 16 Series Camera Specs Leaked: ProRAW, JPEG-XL, and a New Camera Button

The camera specifications for Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro series have been leaked, revealing a slew of exciting upgrades for users. A key highlight of the 16 series is the introduction of a new JPEG-XL image format, joining existing formats like HEIF and JPEG, offering higher image quality and smaller file sizes. The iPhone 16 Pro series will also support shooting 48MP ProRAW photos, providing users with more post-processing options.

Beyond the new image formats, the iPhone 16 series will introduce a new dedicated camera button located on the lower right side of the phone. Designed specifically for the camera app, it facilitates easy access even when holding the phone horizontally. This capacitive button features force-sensitive half-press functionality, allowing developers to tie it to APIs for locking down exposure and focus. It also doubles as a touchpad for zooming, switching filters, and adjusting exposure levels, offering a more intuitive and adaptable control experience.

Camera Upgrades for Standard and Plus Models

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will continue to feature a dual-camera setup, with a 48MP main sensor providing 1-2x zoom. The ultra-wide-angle camera has been upgraded from f/2.4 to f/2.2, enhancing low-light performance. Both models will also introduce macro shooting capabilities for the first time, expanding users' creative possibilities.

It's worth noting that the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will adopt a vertical stacking design for the camera system, replacing the previous diagonal stacking. This change will contribute to a more compact and stable camera module. Both models will feature f/1.6 aperture on the main sensor and support for 2x telephoto for further enhanced shooting capabilities.

Flagship Camera Experience for Pro Models

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will boast significant camera improvements. The main sensor will remain at 48MP with an f/1.78 aperture, capable of capturing 12MP telephoto photos with 2x optical quality. Both Pro models will be equipped with a 5x telephoto camera featuring an f/2.8 aperture, bringing powerful zoom capabilities. The ultra-wide-angle lens will also be upgraded to 48MP, boasting the same pixel binning function as the main camera, and supporting 3K video at 120 frames per second along with DolbyVision HDR video recording.

New Camera Button: Enhanced Control Experience

The new dedicated camera button in the iPhone 16 series is a standout feature. This button, located on the lower right side, is designed specifically for the camera app, making it convenient for horizontal shooting. The force-sensitive half-press functionality of the capacitive button can be linked to developer APIs for features like locking down exposure and focus. It also doubles as a touchpad for zooming, switching filters, and adjusting exposure levels, offering users a more intuitive and versatile control experience.

JPEG-XL: A More Efficient Image Format

JPEG-XL is a new image format designed to deliver higher image quality with smaller file sizes. Compared to existing formats like HEIF and JPEG, JPEG-XL significantly reduces file size while maintaining image quality, enhancing storage efficiency and transfer speeds. In the iPhone 16 series, JPEG-XL will be available alongside existing image formats, offering users more options.

ProRAW: Expanded Post-Processing Capabilities

The iPhone 16 Pro series will support shooting 48MP ProRAW photos, giving users more post-processing options. The ProRAW format preserves raw sensor data, enabling greater flexibility and control during post-processing, allowing users to unleash the full potential of the phone's camera and create stunning images.

Conclusion

The iPhone 16 series boasts comprehensive camera upgrades, including new photo formats, powerful ProRAW support, a dedicated camera button, and enhanced camera hardware. These improvements will deliver a richer, more efficient, and streamlined shooting experience, further solidifying iPhone's leadership in mobile photography.