Imagine elevating your iPhone photography to a whole new level with the latest add-on lens that can deliver stunning long-range shots! The excitement is real as PGYTech, the same creative team behind the popular camera accessories for vivo smartphones, has unveiled a fabulous new kit tailored specifically for iPhone users.
In essence, this fresh offering is a part of the RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit, which features a 2.35x telephoto converter lens that allows your iPhone to achieve an impressive native zoom of around 10x. The complete kit can be yours for just $184 and includes a variety of essential accessories: a robust phone case, a lens adapter ring, a comfortable camera grip that boasts a microSD card slot for expanded storage, and several other useful items.
For those who may not be aware, both the vivo X200 Ultra and the vivo X300 Pro come with an optional camera kit that enhances their photography capabilities. This kit includes a dedicated camera case, gripping handle, and an external lens designed to improve long-distance photography. Now, PGYTech has brought a similar setup for iPhones, making it a game-changer for mobile photographers.
Currently available on Kickstarter, the RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit has already surpassed its initial funding goal of $10,000, amassing over $55,000 at the time of writing, demonstrating strong interest in this innovative product. The kit also boasts a comprehensive selection including a camera grip, the versatile 2.35x telephoto extender lens, a sturdy phone case, a lens adapter ring, a strap for easy carrying, and a tripod collar for stability.
This add-on lens connects seamlessly to either the iPhone 17 Pro’s 4x 48MP camera or the iPhone 16 Pro’s 5x 12MP camera. With this lens attached, users can achieve approximately 235mm (~10x) zoom on the iPhone 17 Pro and about 282mm (~11.7x) zoom with the iPhone 16 Pro. Additionally, the camera application includes preset zoom options for 235, 400, 600, and 960mm, allowing for quick adjustments. Interestingly, it’s anticipated that the iPhone 17 Pro could achieve even better zoom capabilities—up to ~20x—by employing a lossless cropping technique.
Take a closer look at the camera grip, and you will notice essential controls such as a zoom dial, a physical shutter button, a multifunction button, and a tripod mount. What sets this grip apart from others is its inclusion of a microSD card slot, providing the convenience of shooting videos directly to external storage.
However, to utilize the full potential of the add-on lens, PGYTech emphasizes the need for its dedicated camera app. This application offers comprehensive manual controls, a range of vintage filters, and customizable watermarks to give your photos a unique touch.
If you're intrigued by the idea of enhancing your iPhone's photographic abilities with this camera kit, you can pledge $184 on Kickstarter to receive the entire set. Alternatively, there’s a more budget-friendly option available for $72, which includes just the Grip Kit—featuring the camera grip and phone case but omitting the additional lens and other accessories.
Interestingly, this announcement follows recent rumors suggesting that Apple is exploring the development of its own add-on teleconverter lens for future iPhones. For now, iPhone enthusiasts can take advantage of this exciting kit that’s readily available for purchase, ensuring they can capture high-quality long-range photos without delay.
What do you think about this innovative camera kit? Is it something you would consider adding to your photography gear? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
