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Other Eliminating the Camera Bump: A "Side-Mounted Camera" Proposal for Foldable iPhone

S

SideCamVision

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Hi everyone,

As an iPhone 12 user, I feel like the current camera bump has reached its limit. I miss the "smart" precision and flat beauty of the iPhone 5.

For a future foldable iPhone, I propose a "Side-Mounted Camera System" located on the side frame (beneath the side buttons).

Why this works:

  • Ultimate Flatness: A completely flush back—no more wobbling on tables!
  • Camcorder Style: Hold it like a classic handheld camcorder when folded in an L-shape.
  • Periscope Zoom: Uses the side frame's length for high optical magnification.
I believe this would restore the "excitement of a professional tool" to the iPhone.

What do you all think? I've already shared this with Apple and waived all rights—I just want to see a flat iPhone again!
 
But then if it is foldable it will be really thick when folded. I would prefer how it currently is to be honest. But everyone to their own.
 
StumpyBloke said:
But then if it is foldable it will be really thick when folded. I would prefer how it currently is to be honest. But everyone to their own.
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Please bear with my English! I’m from Japan and relying on a translator. I might make some typos, but I’m really excited to discuss this with you.

You’re right, the thickness when folded is a challenge. But my vision is that by using the foldable design, we can hold the iPhone like a classic "handheld camcorder" when it's partially unfolded.

Also, a major benefit of the side camera is durability. With current models, I’m always afraid the lens will crack or get scratched when I put it on a table. If the camera is on the side, the lenses are protected from flat surfaces, which gives me more peace of mind!　
 
SideCamVision said:
"Honestly, I wouldn't mind it being slightly thicker than current models if it means the back is 100% flat. A 8-9mm body with no bump at all is much better than a 7mm body with a 4mm bump!"
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I just measured the camera bezel on my 17 pro max. It's 16mm. I think you'd have to make a serious sacrifice in camera quality to get it that small. And it would make case design seriously difficult.
 
ayephoner said:
I just measured the camera bezel on my 17 pro max. It's 16mm. I think you'd have to make a serious sacrifice in camera quality to get it that small. And it would make case design seriously difficult.
Click to expand...
Thank you for the specific measurement! 16mm is indeed large. I agree that fitting high-end optics into the side frame is the biggest technical hurdle.

Regarding the case design, I was thinking it could work like current cases that have cutouts for the side buttons or the Action button. If the case has a similar "window" on the side for the lenses, we can protect the body while keeping the camera functional. Dirt and lint might collect there, but I think it's a trade-off worth considering for a truly flat back!
 
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