Xiaomi has often thrived by imitating innovations from Cupertino, yet recently, it has introduced a couple of concepts that I believe Apple could benefit from.
First, it was the design of its 15 Ultra smartphone, and now they’ve unveiled an intriguing concept that could serve as an excellent Apple Camera Lens module for the iPhone …
My iPhone is unquestionably my most utilized camera, as it’s always within reach. In fact, it has become my go-to camera even while traveling for the past few years.
That said, I do still occasionally use a dedicated camera. There are times when I specifically go out to capture photographs or videos or when the location I’m visiting warrants bringing along a camera.
However, Xiaomi has recently introduced an innovative solution that might offer the perfect middle ground.
The primary drawbacks of smartphone cameras are their small sensors and tiny plastic lenses. Xiaomi has created a genuine camera lens with a larger sensor that you can magnetically attach to your smartphone.
This allows for built-in camera modules for casual shots, but when you’re seeking higher quality, you can effectively transform your phone into a mirrorless camera by carrying a setup that’s both smaller and lighter than a traditional one.
Wired’s Simon Hill had the opportunity to test a fully-functional prototype and was quite impressed.
The lens I experimented with was a Xiaomi 35-mm f/1.4 lens with a 100-megapixel Light Fusion X Type 4/3 sensor, which is significantly larger than any lens currently available in smartphones. It also features a variable aperture that enhances low-light performance.
He noted that it attached to the camera much like a MagSafe wallet, providing a user experience akin to that of a standalone camera, both in terms of handling and image quality.
Equipped with an autofocus motor, the lens allows you to tap on the screen to focus on a subject, while a physical focus ring offers tactile control for fine adjustments. While shooting in Pro mode, the detachable lens performed as responsively as the standard camera, enabling me to focus on subjects at varying distances for a beautiful natural bokeh effect.
Unfortunately, it remains unclear if Xiaomi will bring this product to market. Nonetheless, I find the concept intriguing and would love to see Apple collaborate with a partner like Nikon, Canon, or Sony to develop a similar accessory for the iPhone.
Does this idea resonate with you? Watch the video below, then participate in our poll and share your opinions in the comments!
Image: Xiaomi
