CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple is preparing a significant camera advancement for the iPhone 18 Pro with the introduction of a variable aperture mechanism on the main lens, marking the first time the company has implemented adjustable optics in its flagship smartphone lineup.

Supply chain sources indicate that production of key components for this feature is already underway, with suppliers adjusting timelines to account for added manufacturing complexity. The development signals Apple’s continued focus on computational photography enhancements while addressing longstanding limitations in depth of field and low-light performance.

The iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to launch in September 2027, maintaining Apple’s traditional fall release schedule. While full specifications remain under wraps, the variable aperture upgrade stands out as one of the most concrete details emerging from the supply chain at this early stage.

Variable Aperture Mechanism Gains Momentum

Sunny Optical has begun producing actuators for the variable aperture system destined for the iPhone 18 Pro, according to reports tracking component shipments. LG Innotek is preparing full module assembly at its Gumi facility in South Korea, with production starting in June or July — earlier than typical schedules — specifically to mitigate higher defect risks associated with the new technology.

This mechanical solution would allow the main camera to dynamically adjust its aperture, offering greater control over light intake and depth of field. Current iPhone Pro models use a fixed f/1.78 aperture on the main sensor, relying entirely on software processing to manage exposure and focus. A variable system could open wider in low light for better light gathering or stop down in bright conditions to reduce overexposure and increase sharpness across the frame.

The practical benefits could be substantial for portrait and group photography, where maintaining focus across subjects at different distances has traditionally required computational assistance. Whether the feature delivers meaningful low-light improvements will depend on the actual aperture range Apple implements, with no confirmed f-stop values available yet.

The decision to accelerate production timelines suggests Apple has committed to the technology despite added complexity. Similar mechanisms have appeared in competing devices, though with mixed results regarding thickness and cost. Apple’s implementation is expected to balance performance gains with the premium build standards users expect from Pro models.

Rumored Telephoto Enhancements

Two additional camera upgrades are circulating in supply chain discussions, though with less concrete evidence. A wider telephoto aperture is considered plausible, potentially addressing one of the iPhone 17 Pro’s remaining weaknesses in zoomed low-light performance. The current 48-megapixel telephoto lens uses an f/2.8 aperture, and a larger opening could improve light intake and background separation at distance.

A teleconverter lens element, which would optically extend focal length, has also been mentioned in some reports. Details remain sparse, with no confirmation on implementation, optical trade-offs or whether it would apply to both Pro and Pro Max variants. These features sit at a lower confidence level compared to the variable aperture reports.

A three-layer stacked image sensor from Samsung has been referenced in some analyses, but lacks broad corroboration across sources in the current rumor cycle. Apple has previously used advanced sensor designs to improve dynamic range and processing speed, making further refinements in this area expected.

Design Trade-offs and Device Dimensions

The camera upgrades come with physical consequences. Leaked measurements suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be slightly thicker and heavier than its predecessor. Total thickness including the camera bump is reported to increase, with body thickness also rising modestly. A larger battery is separately rumored, compounding the size increase.

These changes reflect ongoing challenges in balancing advanced optics with compact design. Previous attempts by other manufacturers to implement variable aperture resulted in thicker devices and higher production costs. Apple’s approach appears aimed at minimizing user impact while delivering tangible photographic benefits.

The Pro Max variant is expected to remain the largest and most feature-rich model, potentially offering the most significant camera enhancements. Buyers weighing upgrade decisions will need to consider whether the added bulk is justified by improved image quality.

Market Context and Competitive Landscape

The iPhone 18 Pro arrives in a premium smartphone market where camera capabilities remain a primary differentiator. Samsung and Google continue pushing boundaries with advanced zoom systems and computational features, while Chinese manufacturers emphasize hardware innovation.

Apple’s strategy has historically favored software-hardware integration over raw specifications. The variable aperture system fits this philosophy, using mechanical adjustment to enhance computational photography rather than simply increasing sensor size or megapixel count. The iPhone 17 Pro already standardized 48-megapixel sensors across its rear cameras, suggesting the 18 series will focus on optical and processing refinements rather than resolution jumps.

Pricing is expected to remain consistent with recent Pro models, maintaining Apple’s premium positioning. Trade-in programs and financing options will likely drive upgrade cycles, particularly for users seeking the latest camera advancements.

Consumer Implications and Feature Expectations

For photographers and content creators, the variable aperture could represent a meaningful step forward in mobile imaging. Better control over depth of field and light intake may reduce reliance on post-processing, delivering more natural-looking results straight from the camera.

Casual users may notice improvements in challenging lighting conditions and group shots without needing to adjust settings manually. If Apple automates aperture control, the benefits could reach a wider audience without adding complexity to the user interface.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max is also expected to benefit from a larger battery, potentially offsetting any efficiency losses from more powerful camera hardware. Overall system performance will be powered by Apple’s next-generation chip, with enhanced neural processing for AI-driven photography features.

Supply Chain and Production Insights

Early supplier activity provides the strongest evidence for the variable aperture feature. The accelerated timeline at LG Innotek and Sunny Optical’s actuator production suggest Apple is committed to including the technology despite manufacturing challenges.

Component orders for advanced displays, processors and camera modules are reportedly ramping up, though Apple maintains its usual secrecy around future products. The company’s manufacturing partners in India and Vietnam are expected to play larger roles, continuing efforts to diversify production.

As development progresses, more details are likely to emerge through analyst reports and supply chain leaks. The three months leading up to the expected September 2027 launch will be critical for confirming specifications and user-facing features.

Strategic Importance for Apple

Camera upgrades have long been central to iPhone marketing and user upgrade decisions. The iPhone 18 Pro’s advancements could help maintain Apple’s leadership in mobile photography while addressing areas where competitors have narrowed the gap.

The integration of variable aperture technology represents a shift from purely computational approaches toward hybrid optical solutions. This evolution could influence future smartphone designs across the industry as manufacturers seek new ways to differentiate their imaging capabilities.

Apple’s focus on privacy and on-device processing is expected to extend to the new camera features, ensuring that advanced computational photography maintains user data security. This alignment with the company’s core values strengthens the appeal of the upcoming models.

The iPhone 18 Pro camera story is still developing, but the confirmed variable aperture mechanism provides a solid foundation for expectations. As additional details emerge in the coming months, the device is shaping up to deliver meaningful improvements in mobile photography while navigating the challenges of balancing innovation with practical design constraints.

Consumers and analysts alike will be watching closely as Apple prepares to unveil its next generation of iPhones. The variable aperture system, if executed well, could set a new standard for smartphone cameras and reinforce Apple’s reputation for thoughtful, user-focused innovation in imaging technology.

McDonald’s announced Tuesday that it is bringing back its fried apple pie to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

The fried apple pies will be available at participating U.S. restaurants for a limited time starting June 23, marking their first broad U.S. rollout in more than 30 years.

“Summer tends to move fast – but the moments worth remembering don’t. And with America’s 250th birthday around the corner, we’re bringing back a fan-favorite and bona fide national treasure made for slowing down and savoring the season: the Fried Apple Pie,” the company said in a press release.

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“The all-day menu item features our signature filling made with 100% American-grown apples, wrapped in the same golden crunch and flaky fried crust fans remember – or soon won’t forget,” it added.

McDonald’s said the dessert item started as a family recipe in the 1960s, when East Tennessee Owner/Operator Litton Cochran created a fried apple hand pie. 

The treat became a local fan favorite and later a McDonald’s classic.

“There are certain things that just take you back – and the Fried Apple Pie is one of them. It’s something that people love and remember from growing up,” Eric Cochran, McDonald’s Owner/Operator, said in a statement.

“When Ray Kroc was trying to come up with a dessert for McDonald’s, my Grandad, Litton Cochran, suggested a Fried Apple Pie as a classic that people would love. My Grandmom, Jo Cochran, spent months perfecting the recipe. Bringing the Fried Apple Pie back for fans this summer to celebrate America’s 250th just feels right,” he continued.

McDonald’s replaced the fried apple pie in 1992 with a baked pie in most of the U.S. in response to growing consumer awareness about fat and cholesterol consumption.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture also published its food guide pyramid that same year.

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Fried apple pies remained on McDonald’s menus in Hawaii and are still sold in other regions around the world, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, Greece, Australia and China.

In addition to the return of the classic dessert, McDonald’s is installing a 35-foot Fried Apple Pie on Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois, near the company’s Chicago headquarters. The giant pie will remain standing through July 4.

A kickoff event will also be held to debut McDonald’s Largest Fried Apple Pie in Chicagoland. The event will feature live music, ice-cold Coca-Cola and complimentary Arch Cards.

Reliance Jio Infocomm could file draft papers for ‌its ⁠expected $4 ⁠billion IPO within days and just before billionaire Mukesh ⁠Ambani‘s closely ‌watched annual speech ⁠on Friday to Reliance Industries‘ shareholders, the Financial Times reported on ‌Wednesday, citing sources.

Reuters could not immediately ⁠verify the report.

At last year’s AGM, Ambani had committed to listing Jio, India’s largest wireless operator, in the first half of 2026, making the upcoming filing a key milestone in that roadmap.
Jio now appears set to miss that timeline following a challenging year for Reliance Industries.
The conglomerate’s shares have declined about 15% in 2026, while net profit for the quarter ended March fell 13% year-on-year, weighed down by disruptions in its core refining business amid turbulence in the Gulf region.

The Rs 88.5 crore IPO of Leapfrog Engineering Services will open for subscription on Wednesday and will close on June 19. The company is expected to list on the BSE SME platform on June 24. Ahead of the issue opening, the grey market premium (GMP) stood at zero, indicating no expected listing gains based on unofficial market activity.

The IPO comprises a fresh issue of 3.46 crore shares aggregating Rs 79.6 crore and an offer for sale of 38.76 lakh shares worth Rs 8.91 crore. The company has fixed a price band of Rs 21-23 per share.

Investors can bid for a minimum of 12,000 shares and in multiples of 6,000 shares thereafter. At the upper end of the price band, the minimum investment for retail investors is Rs 2.76 lakh. High-net-worth investors are required to invest at least Rs 4.14 lakh for three lots.

The issue size totals 3.85 crore shares, of which the net offer to the public stands at 3.66 crore shares after accounting for the market maker portion. Retail investors have been allocated 60.07% of the net issue, while non-institutional investors have been allotted 38.9%. Qualified institutional buyers account for just over 1% of the net offer.

Incorporated in 2005, Leapfrog Engineering Services provides integrated engineering procurement, procurement and construction (EPCC) solutions across sectors such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food processing and metals.

The company offers services spanning electrical engineering solutions, industrial automation, instrumentation, fire protection systems and building automation. It executes turnkey EPC projects and provides installation, commissioning and maintenance services.
Leapfrog Engineering plans to utilise the IPO proceeds primarily for expansion and working capital requirements. Around Rs 27 crore will be used to set up an assembling unit, while Rs 36.05 crore has been earmarked for working capital needs. The remaining funds will be used for general corporate purposes.Financially, the company reported revenue of Rs 137.37 crore and profit after tax of Rs 16.22 crore in FY25. For the nine months ended December 2025, it posted revenue of Rs 105.05 crore and profit after tax of Rs 14.18 crore.

The company cited its experienced management team, diversified project portfolio, global presence and strong order book as key strengths.

Finshore Management Services is the book-running lead manager to the issue, while Integrated Registry Management Services is the registrar. Anant Securities will act as the market maker.

The allotment is expected to be finalised on June 22, with refunds and credit of shares likely on June 23. The stock is scheduled to make its market debut on June 24.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of Economic Times)

The shares of Vishal Mega Mart will remain in focus on Wednesday after nearly 92.3 crore shares worth Rs 10,813 crore become eligible for trade as the IPO lock-in period expires today, according to Nuvama Institutional Equities.

However, it is important to note that the lock-in expiry does not imply that all these shares will be offloaded in the market immediately. It simply means that these shares can now be traded by the shareholders. At the previous closing price of Rs 117.15 apiece on BSE, the said number of shares that will free up for trade today is worth nearly Rs 10,812.95 crore.

Also read: JAL shares to delist from BSE and NSE on Thursday. What happens to its 6 lakh shareholders?

Vishal Mega Mart share price

Vishal Mega Mart shares made a strong market debut, listing with a 41% premium over the IPO price at Rs 110 on BSE in December 2024. Although the offer was entirely an OFS, Vishal Mega Mart’s maiden public issue received healthy demand from all sets of investors, especially from the QIB category, which bid more than 85 times its allotted portion.

The stock then fell over 10% to a record low of Rs 98.7 apiece in February 2025, before soaring 60% to a 52-week high of Rs 157.75 apiece in August 2025. The stock has since fallen nearly 26% from that level, closing at Rs 117.15 apiece on the BSE on Tuesday.

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Vishal Mega Mart Q4 Results

Vishal Mega Mart in May reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 167.92 crore for the fourth quarter of the financial year 2026, marking a nearly 46% year-on-year (YoY) jump from the Rs 115 crore net profit reported in the year-ago period. The firm’s revenue from operations meanwhile rose over 22% YoY to Rs 3,114 crore during the quarter under review.

“We look ahead at FY27 with excitement. We wish to be a strong contributor to India’s growing consumption story. India’s emerging retail landscape offers exciting and evolving opportunities across offline and digital commerce. With our extensive network and strong fundamentals, we are well-positioned to participate in these,” said Gunender Kapur, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Vishal Mega Mart.
Also read: Vedanta to be removed from MSCI Global Standard Indexes from June 22

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)