Apple has yet to introduce 8K video recording on iPhones, a feature already available on many Android smartphones.
While the iPhone 16 series was expected to support high-resolution video capture, Apple did not implement it. Now, a well-known Apple tipster suggests that the upcoming iPhone 17 series will finally bring 8K video recording.
Apple iPhone 17 Series May Feature 8K Video Capture
Currently, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second (fps), while the Pro and Pro Max models can record at 120fps.
According to internal reports, Apple had planned to introduce 8K video recording with the iPhone 16 lineup. However, the telephoto sensor in the Pro and Pro Max models was a limiting factor, preventing the implementation of the feature.
Technical Limitations Delayed 8K Video on iPhone 16
To record in 8K resolution, a camera sensor typically needs at least 35 megapixels (MP). Currently, iPhones use a 12MP sensor, which falls short of this requirement. Apple reportedly decided against enabling 8K recording on the iPhone 16 series because users would be unable to switch between all camera units seamlessly if the telephoto lens did not support the same resolution.
This approach differs from Android manufacturers, who often maximize the recording resolution available for each individual camera sensor.
iPhone 17 Series Could Feature an Upgraded Telephoto Sensor
If Apple plans to introduce 8K recording in the iPhone 17 series, it strongly suggests an upgrade to the telephoto sensor. A higher-resolution telephoto lens would eliminate the previous technical barrier and allow seamless recording across all camera units.
While Apple has not officially confirmed these details, the information comes from a reliable source within the Apple ecosystem.
With Android smartphones already offering 8K video recording, Apple’s move to introduce the feature would help iPhones remain competitive in the high-end smartphone market. More details about the iPhone 17 series are expected to emerge as its launch date approaches.