[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Apple's next iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may adopt a camera hardware upgrade on the largest scale yet, raising the possibility of a major overhaul. With a parallel push to strengthen AI-based camera functions, speculation is growing that Apple is seeking to reshape the overall shooting experience.

On April 29, 9to5Mac reported that Bloomberg's Mark Gurman mentioned the iPhone 18 Pro lineup and said it would include "some of the biggest camera hardware upgrades" in the lineup's history.

The remarks came alongside forecasts related to Apple's next operating system, iOS 27. Reports said Apple is expected to add a new Siri mode to the iOS 27 camera app that uses visual intelligence features. The Photos app has also been flagged as a candidate for AI-based image editing tools. The industry is therefore assessing whether Apple is pursuing AI software features and a camera hardware overhaul at the same time.

Hardware changes disclosed so far are limited. Earlier outlooks have suggested the iPhone 18 Pro main camera could adopt a new variable aperture feature. If introduced, users would be able to more finely control the amount of light and depth of field. It would bring a feature commonly used in DSLR and mirrorless cameras into the smartphone camera experience in earnest.

The telephoto camera has also been cited as a possible candidate for a wider aperture. That is seen as potentially helping improve low-light performance and background blur effects.

Some reactions have said the information disclosed so far does not sufficiently explain Gurman's description of the "biggest camera hardware upgrades" in the lineup's history. They point to limited scope if the changes are confined to a variable aperture and telephoto lens improvements. Core specifications, such as possible sensor changes, lens structure redesigns or whether new shooting technologies will be introduced, are not yet known. Gurman also did not disclose further details.

That is why the market is focusing on the possibility that there are new camera functions or hardware changes that have yet to surface. Some also speculate the iPhone 18 Pro could include previously unknown "hidden upgrades."

A key focus is how closely Apple will integrate AI functions with the camera experience. With a new Siri-based camera mode, AI image editing functions and variable aperture technology being discussed at the same time, some analysis suggests Apple may be seeking to differentiate the user experience beyond a simple image-quality race.

If Apple strengthens camera competitiveness by integrating hardware and software, the focus of smartphone camera competition could shift from specifications to AI-based shooting experiences. The industry is watching whether detailed camera specifications will be revealed through future supply chain reports and additional leaked information.