We've been waiting for the iPhone 15's periscope camera since early 2021, and there have been rumors since early 2021 that this is the year the iPhone will get a zoom camera that will greatly enhance its photography prowess, and leakers and supposedly knowledgeable analysts say it will be announced at Apple's September event The iPhone 15 Pro Max is expected to be unveiled at Apple's September event.

An analysis of the rumored changes suggests that the new iPhone's periscope camera is one of the biggest potential reasons to upgrade. Nevertheless, the claim that only one of the four iPhone 15 models will have it is somewhat disappointing, as it will affect users' choices when upgrading.

If you are still curious about the iPhone 15 periscope camera, here is what we know so far.

The lens of the periscope camera uses a pair of mirrors to reflect the image from the camera aperture to a sensor placed next to the aperture, much like a periscope on a submarine. The longer distance between the sensor and the aperture allows for a larger lens to be mounted, increasing optical zoom power.

Android phones have already been using periscope telephoto cameras for years, the most prominent and latest example being the 10x optical zoom camera on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

The iPhone 15 series will probably have a periscope telephoto camera only on the Pro Max/Ultra models. To make matters worse, this model may be more difficult to obtain than expected due to supply issues with parts for the camera.

A periscope camera on the smaller Pro iPhone models may be left until the iPhone 16. It is also worth noting that this could be a defining feature, justifying a $100-$200 price increase for the flagship model.

Rumors suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro Max's periscope zoom camera will have a 6x zoom, up from the iPhone 14 Pro's 3x. However, it is also possible that it will be capable of an even higher 10x zoom, or that it will have a variable lens that allows for multiple optical zoom levels.

Whatever lens is employed, leakers claim that the periscope camera will use a hybrid glass/plastic lens. All other iPhone cameras use plastic lenses, making this camera another exciting first.

However, the new technology will naturally take up more space in the camera block, meaning that Apple will obviously have to move the position of the ultra-wide angle and telephoto cameras to fit the new sensor, and the size of the camera bump will increase by 5 percent increase.

Since the periscope camera could be the biggest camera upgrade for any iPhone 15 model, it is unfortunate that it is limited to only the most expensive Pro Max model, if the rumors are completely correct. But it is a long-awaited feature that could allow Apple to catch up with its Android rivals in the best camera phone stakes.

While there will likely be no changes to the iPhone 15 Pro's zoom camera, it may be included in the iPhone 16, so those who want a periscope camera in a smaller frame will have to wait a year.

Meanwhile, those hoping to get the iPhone 15 Pro Max and its new camera this year will have to be prepared to fight for it, as demand is likely to be high and supply low. If you're convinced it's already the phone for you, consider making an iPhone 15 reservation.