Earlier this week, we shared a teaser from Oppo showcasing a concept mobile device with a built-in retractable camera module. Now, thanks to GSMArena, we now know more about the camera module inside the concept device, which was shown off at Oppo’s annual Inno Day event.
According to reporting from GSMArena, Oppo managed to squeeze the 50mm full-frame equivalent F2.4 camera module into a device just 8.26mm thick. Behind the retractable lens is a 50MP Sony IMX766 sensor Oppo is believed to be using in its upcoming Reno 7 Pro flagship smartphone.
As you would expect from such a camera module, the telescoping nature means the camera will only be able to be used when the pop-out module is fully extended. This will lead to a longer wait time between pulling the phone out of your pocket and snapping your shot, but Oppo says it should be able to open and close in just 0.6 seconds, so you won’t be waiting too long. For your patience, you’ll be rewarded with a proper 2x optical zoom that’s both splash and dust resistant.
Oppo hasn’t revealed when we can expect to see this in a device, but it’s probably safe to say it’ll be reserved for its flagship models, given the cost of implementing such a mechanism.