In today's fast-paced world, the inclusion of a zoom camera has become a pivotal feature for smartphone enthusiasts. The narrative of one user’s transition from favoring ultrawide lenses to embracing telephoto cameras highlights the evolving landscape of mobile photography. Initially drawn to the LG G5's ultrawide capabilities in 2016, this individual found early zoom technology underwhelming due to its limited enhancements over standard cameras and disappointing hybrid zoom performance. However, advancements such as periscope cameras introduced by HUAWEI and OPPO in 2019 marked a turning point. These innovations, coupled with higher resolutions and improved low-light performance, have transformed how users capture distant subjects without physically moving closer. This shift underscores the growing importance of zoom cameras not just for casual photography but also professional applications.

Back in 2016, the allure of an ultrawide lens was undeniable. Devices like the LG G5 captivated many with their ability to provide expansive views that were visually striking. At that time, the concept of zoom cameras seemed less appealing due to their modest improvements over standard lenses and often subpar hybrid zoom quality. Yet, as technology advanced, so did the appeal of telephoto cameras. A significant milestone came in late 2019 when the Google Pixel 4 introduced a combination of a 12MP 2x camera and Super Res Zoom, marking a step forward but still falling short of being revolutionary.

By 2018, opinions began shifting. The Porsche Design Mate RS, essentially a supercharged version of the HUAWEI P20 Pro, showcased the potential of a 3x 8MP camera and 5x hybrid zoom. This setup delivered superior image quality and versatility compared to most flagships at the time. Following this experience, the purchase of the Mate 20 Pro later that year further solidified the preference for telephoto capabilities, especially since it also included an ultrawide lens, offering the best of both worlds.

The introduction of periscope cameras in 2019 by HUAWEI and OPPO revolutionized the industry. These devices featured impressive native zooms of 5x and 6x, setting new standards for what smartphones could achieve. Fast forward to late 2022, and the acquisition of the Pixel 7 Pro exemplifies the current pinnacle of zoom technology. With a 5x periscope camera, 48MP resolution, and enhanced Super Res Zoom, capturing sharp images even at 10x became feasible. Such advancements highlight the dramatic evolution from earlier 2x cameras, incorporating features like wider apertures for better low-light performance and macro modes, resulting in highly versatile zoom cameras.

These modern telephoto and periscope cameras offer numerous benefits, particularly enabling users to get closer to subjects without needing to physically move closer. Practical scenarios include concerts from distant seats, capturing wildlife, or snapping shots out of airplane windows. Professionally, they enhance product photography and ensure fine details are captured during crowded events. Beyond photography, everyday tasks such as reading distant signs or menus become more convenient with a simple zoom function. The convenience is evident when checking Wi-Fi passwords from across a room without needing to get up.

Looking ahead, while the current Pixel 7 Pro remains satisfactory, any future upgrades will undoubtedly prioritize a phone equipped with a robust zoom camera. Options like the Pixel 9 Pro and OnePlus 13 stand out for combining powerful telephoto capabilities with compact designs. Brands like Nothing and realme deserve recognition for integrating telephoto or periscope cameras into mid-range devices, with the Nothing Phone 3a potentially being a standout option under $400 in the U.S. market. As anticipation builds for upcoming models like the vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X8 Ultra, which promise cutting-edge zoom technology, the hope persists that more manufacturers will embrace telephoto cameras in their offerings.

As the journey from ultrawide to telephoto demonstrates, technological advancements significantly influence user preferences. While many smartphones excel in performance, software updates, and battery life, the absence of a reliable zoom camera remains a deal-breaker for those who have experienced its advantages. Thus, the future lies in encouraging broader adoption of telephoto cameras across various price points, ensuring no enthusiast is left behind in this era of mobile photography excellence.