With the iPhone 16 Pro Max announcement expected four months from now, we’re hearing even more details about Apple’s upcoming best iPhone yet. According to reliable leaker and Weibo user OvO Bay Sauce OvO (via MacRumors), Apple will base the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s main camera on an advanced custom 48 MP Sony IMX903 sensor, while the iPhone 16 Pro will maintain last year’s Sony IMX803 sensor.
Previously, rumors said Apple wouldn’t offer exclusive iPhone 16 Pro Max camera features, as both Pro models would have the same benefits. However, it seems Apple wants to reintroduce this trend by making hard-core users opt for the biggest model available for the highest-end features.
This new sensor could include a stacked design for better performance, a 14-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter for high-quality image data conversion, and Digital Gain Control for better dynamic range and noise control. It’s important to note that another Weibo leaker has previously said that the next Pro Max would have this better sensor, although we once thought this could mean both Pro models could get Sony’s new sensor.
Thankfully, this leak isn’t all bad news. Once again, the new iPhones are expected to get a new 48MP ultra-wide sensor. With that, iPhone 16 Pro users will be able to capture more light, resulting in better photos when shooting in 0.5x mode.
If Apple brings a 48MP to the ultra-wide lens, users will be able to shoot 48MP ProRAW photos in this mode, making pictures even better. Finally, by 2025, Apple could upgrade the telephoto lens to a 48MP sensor as well.
For this year’s iPhone 16 Pro models, rumors expect Apple to add 5x optical zoom to both models. While this will be a win for those who prefer a smaller model, they won’t be able to take advantage of an improved sensor – if the leak above is true.
In the guide below, we have gathered all the reports and rumors we heard from the iPhone 16 models.
