PGYTECH is taking a slightly unusual approach to mobile photography with its new RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit, a Kickstarter project that turns recent iPhones into something that feels closer to a compact mirrorless camera than a phone with accessories bolted on.

The idea isn’t entirely new. Chinese brands like Xiaomi, Vivo and Oppo have already experimented with external camera modules and add-on optics, but RetroVa is one of the first attempts to bring that concept properly to iPhones.

The kit is designed for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, as well as the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, with hints that future models could also be supported. It’s clearly aimed at users who are happy with their phone but frustrated by the limits of smartphone zoom.

There are two main versions of the kit. The entry-level option is a grip and case combo that adds a proper camera-style handle to the iPhone. It includes a two-stage shutter button, a zoom rocker, a control dial, and extra buttons that can be mapped to settings like ISO or exposure. The goal here isn’t just convenience, it’s to make shooting feel more deliberate and controlled, closer to using a dedicated camera.

The more expensive bundle adds a screw-on 2.35x telephoto extender. When paired with the iPhone 17 Pro’s 4x telephoto camera, this pushes the effective focal length to around 235mm equivalent, or 10x optical zoom. On the iPhone 16 Pro’s 5x lens, it goes up to 12x. The promise is cleaner results than digital zoom can offer, especially for wildlife, sports, or events.

One of the more interesting touches is the built-in microSD card slot for creators, which reportedly allows direct recording of ProRes video. There’s also a companion app with manual controls and a retro-inspired interface, though the grip itself has only a small battery meant to power its controls.

The Kickstarter campaign launched in late January 2026 and has already passed its funding goal comfortably. Shipping is planned for March and April, depending on the kit.

It’s still a crowdfunded product, so there’s the usual risk involved. But for iPhone users who want better zoom and more hands-on control — without buying a new phone or a separate camera — RetroVa is an interesting experiment.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

(Source)

The post iPhone photography kit brings up to 12x optical zoom, fill lights, SD card slot and more appeared first on Gizmochina.

Caviar has introduced a new line of custom iPhone 17 Pro Max models under its Black Edition collection. The launch comes in response to Apple’s decision to remove the classic black color option from the iPhone 17 Pro series. While Apple focused on new shades like Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue, Caviar chose to reintroduce black with a luxury approach aimed at collectors and enthusiasts.

Design and Model Breakdown

The Black Edition includes four distinct models: Black is Back, Shadow, Spark, and Obsidian Black Edition. All four feature a matte black chassis constructed from aerospace-grade titanium. Each model also includes a crocodile leather panel on the lower portion of the phone. Caviar used anodizing and PVD coating to create a deep black finish that matches Apple’s previous Black Titanium aesthetic in both appearance and durability.

The Black is Back model features a simple black titanium frame and crocodile leather finish. It focuses on a clean, understated look for those who want a modern version of the classic black iPhone design.

The Shadow edition adds a more refined touch. It uses the same titanium and leather combination but keeps everything monochrome, including the decorative screws. The result is a minimalist look with subtle texture and contrast.

The Spark variant introduces decorative accents in 24K gold. Caviar used gold-plated screws and inserts to contrast against the black frame. This model targets buyers who prefer a bold and expressive aesthetic while retaining the black base.

The Obsidian Black Edition sits at the top of the lineup. It features the same materials and coatings as the other models but uses a richer black tone throughout the body. Caviar describes it as a design that reflects strength and luxury.

Availability and Pricing

Caviar limited the production of the Black is Back, Shadow, and Spark models to just 19 units each. The Obsidian Black Edition is available in 99 units. All models are built on the iPhone 17 Pro Max and include luxury-grade packaging along with a collector’s coin and a gold-plated Caviar key.

Pricing for the Black Edition lineup starts at $9,130 for the Black is Back model, with the Spark version starting at $9,840. The Shadow and Obsidian Black Edition variants both start at $10,410. Reservations for all four models opened on January 28 via Caviar’s official website.

In related news, Caviar has recently unveiled what it claims to be the world’s first luxury humanoid robot, finished in gold.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

The post Caviar launches Black Edition iPhone 17 Pro Max with titanium, crocodile leather and gold accents appeared first on Gizmochina.