Huawei unveils Ruiying Z10 zoom lens with built-in sensor

Over the past few years, Chinese Android manufacturers have followed Vivo’s lead in launching add-on teleconverter lenses for flagship phones to achieve long-distance photography that built-in phone cameras cannot reach. Today, Huawei has outpaced competitors by introducing an add-on lens for its Mate 90 Pro Max flagship that is not only massive in zoom capability but also packs its own dedicated image sensor.

The Ruiying Z10 houses a 1-inch-type, 50-megapixel RYYB sensor that is larger than any sensor found inside the phone itself. Attaching this lens serves as a complete overhaul of photographic capabilities rather than merely adding better glass. While previous teleconverters featured fixed focal lengths, the Z10 functions as a true zoom lens covering 24-240mm with a variable aperture of f/2.0-f/4.5. It operates almost like a standalone camera, relying on the smartphone solely for power, processing power, and software.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Impressively, Huawei engineered the lens to mount directly onto compatible smartphones without requiring an intermediary case for attachment. The obvious drawback of the Z10 is its enormous size by teleconverter standards, making it impossible to pocket. However, weighing in at 346g, it remains smaller and lighter than most mirrorless cameras, likely allowing users to bring it into venues where standalone cameras are typically prohibited, such as concerts and sporting events.