Samsung has introduced the new Galaxy S24 Ultra with a “Quad Tele System,” providing four zoom levels: 2x, 3x, 5x, and 10x. While the middle two are achieved through optics, the first and last levels utilize advanced image processing. Additionally, the S24 Ultra boasts four actual cameras on its back, a contrast from previous phones with only one camera.
Only a few years ago, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge were equipped with a single 12MP camera featuring a 26mm f/1.7 lens, which, at the time, was considered a fairly advanced feature, incorporating Dual Pixel autofocus and OIS. However, it limited users to a single focal length.
To address this limitation, Samsung designed the Lens Cover, a specialized case for the S7 and S7 edge that included a lens mount. This kit included two premium lenses: an ultra-wide-angle lens (110°) and a telephoto lens (2x), made from stainless steel and securely attached to the case in the correct position over the phone’s camera.
The Samsung Lens Cover (mounted on a Note7)
It featured a plastic cylinder for convenient storage and included protective caps to prevent scratches for individual lenses.
The same Lens Cover kit was available for the Galaxy Note7, and we had the opportunity to test it out. The kit showcased the different fields of view achievable with the camera.
The results were impressive, with digital zoom, and the 2x tele lens provided a significant increase in detail.
However, the tele lens encountered corner softness, while the ultra-wide lens had noticeable geometric distortion. Moreover, newer phones have surpassed the limitations that these add-on options presented.
Here are examples of photos taken with the Lens Cover kit:
Galaxy Note7 Lens cover: Wide-angle • No lens • Telephoto
Samsung has since moved away from case-mounted lenses. The evolution of phones to include multiple high-quality cameras has rendered external lens options unnecessary.
However, innovations in phone photography accessories continue, such as the Photography Kit for the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, which incorporates filters for a standard 67mm adapter ring.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography kit
Similarly, Xiaomi has introduced an interchangeable lens system for phones, and Samsung has launched the Gadget Cover case for the Galaxy S23 series, incorporating advanced accessories for enhanced photography.
As technology continues to evolve, there’s potential for even more innovative add-on options in the future. The question remains: do you think there is a market for other add-ons like the Xiaomi Photography Kit or the Sony vlog monitor?
