Apple is known for refining technology rather than rushing to be first — but recent industry leaks suggest the iPhone 18 could finally introduce a camera feature that Samsung flagship phones debuted as far back as 2021. If accurate, this upgrade could mark one of the most meaningful photography improvements Apple has made in years.

So what is this long-awaited feature, why does it matter, and how could it impact everyday users? Let’s break it down.

The Camera Feature Apple May Be Catching Up On

According to supply-chain and analyst reports, Apple is exploring the introduction of under-display camera technology or advanced periscope-style variable optical zoom, a feature Samsung has refined since the Galaxy S21 Ultra.

Samsung introduced high-end periscope telephoto lenses in 2021, allowing users to achieve true optical zoom (up to 10x) without major quality loss — something Apple users have only partially experienced in recent Pro models.

If the rumours are true, the iPhone 18 could finally deliver:

• Higher-range optical zoom without digital degradation

• Improved low-light zoom photography

• Cleaner images at long distances

• More flexibility for video creators and content makers

Why Apple Has Taken So Long

Apple’s delay isn’t necessarily a weakness. Historically, the company prefers to:

• Introduce features once they meet Apple’s quality standards

• Avoid early-generation hardware compromises

• Ensure long-term reliability and battery efficiency

While Samsung moved quickly to adopt periscope zoom, early versions had limitations in consistency and low-light performance. Apple appears to be waiting until it can deliver a more refined, tightly integrated solution across hardware and software.

What This Means for iPhone Users

If Apple implements this feature properly in the iPhone 18, users can expect:

• Sharper photos at concerts, sporting events and travel locations

• Stronger competition with Samsung’s Ultra lineup

• A noticeable leap for mobile photography enthusiasts

• More creative control for vloggers and social-media creators

For users upgrading from older iPhones, this could be one of the biggest camera jumps Apple has offered in a single generation.

How Apple Could Do It Better Than Samsung

Where Apple typically excels is optimisation. Rather than simply matching Samsung’s specs, Apple is likely to combine:

• AI-powered image processing

• Computational photography enhancements

• Better video stabilisation at high zoom

• Seamless integration with iOS apps and editing tools

This could result in a zoom experience that feels more natural and consistent, even if the headline numbers aren’t as aggressive.

Is This Enough to Drive Upgrades?

For many customers, camera improvements remain one of the top reasons to upgrade. If the iPhone 18 finally delivers a feature Android users have enjoyed for years — but does it better — it could:

• Encourage long-term iPhone users to upgrade

• Pull back customers who switched to Samsung for photography

• Strengthen Apple’s position in the premium smartphone market

Final Thoughts

The iPhone 18 adding a camera feature first seen on Samsung phones in 2021 highlights Apple’s long-standing strategy: wait, refine, and perfect. While Apple may not always be first, it often aims to be the most polished.

If these rumours hold true, the iPhone 18 could represent a major shift in Apple’s camera philosophy — and a long-overdue response to Samsung’s dominance in zoom photography.