The aperture adjusts automatically or manually across four preset stops and can open as wide as f/1.48 for more light in low-light conditions.
The main camera is joined by a 48MP ultra-wide with a 120-degree field of view and a 48MP telephoto, offering up to 8x optical-quality zoom and a 16x overall optical zoom range.
On the front, an upgraded 18MP TrueDepth camera has an f/1.9 aperture, Autofocus with Focus Pixels, and Center Stage support.
The new 2nm A20 Pro chip handles image and video processing, with 4K Dolby Vision video at up to 120fps and algorithm-based audio separation.
Apple expanded the native Camera app with manual controls for shutter speed, white balance, and aperture, plus an on-screen histogram.
A new system helps verify image authenticity: pixel data can be cryptographically signed and processed using Private Cloud Compute, creating an immutable reference image stored alongside the original in Photos.
It also integrates SynthID metadata tracking to make subsequent edits or AI-based alterations easier to identify.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra earns its place by focusing on low-light performance and practical video upgrades.
Samsung widened apertures across the array, giving the 200MP main sensor an f/1.4 lens and the upgraded 50MP ultrawide an f/1.9 lens.
This allows the hardware to capture more light naturally, resulting in cleaner photos and improved Nightography video in dim environments without over-relying on software processing.
The zoom setup remains versatile with a 10MP 3x telephoto and a 50MP 5x periscope lens.
For video shooters, the S26 Ultra is the first Galaxy device to support the Advanced Professional Video (APV) standard, which compresses high-quality video files efficiently.
It also brings upgraded Super Steady stabilization, updated native AI editing tools, and a front camera with a new AI Image Signal Processor for more accurate skin tones in mixed lighting.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra
Xiaomi's ongoing collaboration with Leica continues with the 17 Ultra, which retains its distinct circular camera module housing a quad-camera array.
The main camera uses a 1-inch type sensor with a variable aperture, supported by three 50MP lenses for ultra-wide, 3x telephoto, and 5x periscope duties.
Image processing is handled by Xiaomi's custom Surge chip, tuned to deliver Leica's signature color science and contrast-heavy look with minimal shutter lag.
Xiaomi also offers a Photography Kit for this model, adding a case with a two-stage shutter button, a zoom lever, and a 67mm filter thread.
