I Tried the iPhone 18 Pro’s New Deluxe Camera and Shot Photos With Starbursts

At Apple’s recent September 9 event, hands-on demonstrations of the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max revealed significant advancements in mobile photography. The most notable addition to the flagship devices is the integration of a new variable aperture system on the main camera. This hardware upgrade allows users to physically adjust the lens opening, providing greater control over depth of field and light intake. During initial testing, the feature proved capable of producing distinct starburst effects on light sources, a characteristic typically reserved for professional-grade dedicated cameras. By incorporating this technology, Apple aims to bridge the gap between smartphone photography and traditional DSLR capabilities. While the devices retain the familiar design language of their predecessors, the focus on optical innovation suggests a strategic push to maintain dominance in the premium smartphone market through superior imaging hardware.