Huawei is considering a new camera system with a retracting periscope unit.
That’s according to the Chinese giant’s most recent patent at USPTO and CNIPA (202130315905.9 application number). The patent filing and images show that the idea is to create a camera system with a retractable periscope. To recall, a periscope unit consumes a lot of space in smartphones, causing them to be bulkier and thicker than most devices without the said lens.
However, Huawei’s patent shows a device with a triple camera lens setup. This includes a periscope unit with a retracting mechanism, allowing it to be tucked away when not in use and reducing the thickness of the device itself. The patent shows that the system has a motor that lifts the lens to position it during use. Interestingly, the images also show that users could have a manual option to control the periscope using a rotating ring.
The news came amid rumors that Huawei is working on a self-developed Pura 80 Ultra camera system. According to a tipster, aside from the software side, the hardware division of the system, including the OmniVision lenses currently being used in the Pura 70 series, could also change. The Pura 80 Ultra is allegedly coming with a trio of lenses on its back, featuring a 50MP 1″ main camera, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 1/1.3″ periscope unit. The system also allegedly implements a variable aperture for the main camera.
It is unknown if Huawei will implement the said periscope retracting mechanism in its upcoming device since the idea is still in its patent stage. Stay tuned for updates!