The iPhone 18 Pro series just launched, featuring a four-stop variable aperture. However, to grant more granular control over it, Apple has also introduced Pro camera controls in its default camera app.
Apple's updated camera app will let iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max users manipulate other photography aspects like white balance, shutter speed and aperture, while also featuring a histogram to monitor exposure levels. Besides, Apple's Photography Styles option now lets users control the amount of grain.
Image Credit: Apple
Image Credit: Apple
Image Credit: Apple
The Cupertino giant wants users to get as creative as possible with the variable-aperture 48 MP main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro series. For those unaware, the camera uses a six-blade mechanism, helping the lens scale between f/1.48 and f/4 to manipulate the depth of field more naturally.
Besides Pro controls, Apple is also rolling out a new API to allow third-party developers to integrate the aperture controls into their apps. For starters, apps like Blackmagic Camera could use the feature to help unlock the phone's potential as a standalone videography and photography device.
Other iPhone 18 Pro series cameras include a 48 MP Telephoto and a 48 MP ultrawide camera. Beyond camera specifications, the smartphones bring the latest A20 Pro chipset with vast improvements in CPU and GPU performance.
The front 18 MP 1:1 Centre Stage camera is now embedded in a much smaller and feature-rich Dynamic Island for more utility and screen real estate.
With the Pro controls and the demos Apple showcased at the Apple event, the iPhone 18 Pro could be a boon to creators. The flexibility of the variable aperture, combined with the utility of Pro controls, means users can now have more creative control over how they want their Apple iPhones to capture a scene.
iPhone 18 Pro series preorders start on September 12, 2026, with wider availability from September 18, 2026.
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