The iPhone18 Pro series released this year has undergone notable camera enhancements. For the first time, the main camera boasts a physically adjustable aperture, putting it on par with flagship offerings from Huawei, Xiaomi, and other competitors.

Many anticipated that with the introduction of the variable aperture, coupled with Apple's long-standing prowess in image processing algorithms and a suite of professional manual controls, Apple's photographic capabilities this year would be unparalleled.

Yet, the reality has proven somewhat awkward. The iPhone18 Pro can only claim the second spot globally, with Huawei's Pura80 ultra, launched in June of the previous year, securing the top position. Apple is unable to even outperform Huawei's model from a year prior.

As illustrated in the figure below, this is the overall score ranking from DXOMARK. Huawei's Pura80 ultra leads the pack with a total score of 175 points, ranking first, while Apple's iPhone18 Pro trails behind with a total score of 172 points, a 3-point difference.

It's worth noting that among the top contenders, score differences are often minuscule, typically just 1 or 2 points. Apple's 3-point shortfall is, therefore, quite notable.

Let's delve into some specific evaluation subcategories. Apple's iPhone18 Pro only claims the top spot in video capabilities, primarily attributed to its superior ultra-wide-angle video performance.

In photography, however, it fails to excel in any particular category, lagging behind rivals such as Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, and VIVO.

Previously, Apple was revered as the photography king. Despite featuring cameras with lower pixel counts and specifications, its advanced algorithms enabled it to produce top-tier photos with seemingly inferior hardware.

Now, that perception should be revised. When it comes to smartphone photography, we must turn our attention to domestic smartphone manufacturers, particularly Huawei, which truly deserves the crown.

At present, Apple only holds a distinct advantage in video recording. Should it fall behind in this domain as well, it risks becoming obsolete.

Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the photographic prowess of Huawei's latest Mate90 series, as well as Xiaomi's 18 series, both of which are formidable contenders to Apple.