Apple enhances iPhone 18 Pro video capabilities with variable aperture

Apple is enhancing its mobile filmmaking capabilities through hardware and software updates centered on the iPhone 18 Pro. A major development is the introduction of a variable aperture on the device’s 48-megapixel Fusion main camera, offering four distinct levels ranging from f/1.48 to f/4.0.

To leverage this hardware, Apple has released Final Cut Camera 2.4, a professional video application that allows users to manually control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. The app includes advanced features such as false-color exposure monitoring, focus peaking, and cinematic effects that can be applied to ProRes and Apple Log footage for later editing in Final Cut Pro.

Third-party developers are also responding to these hardware changes. The camera app Halide has released version 3.2, which provides stepless aperture control across the full range of the iPhone 18 Pro’s lens, whereas Apple’s native app utilizes fixed steps. Additionally, Apple has collaborated with ShiftCam to develop the ProRig, an aluminum mounting system designed to transform the iPhone into a professional-grade camera rig by supporting lenses, microphones, and LED lights.