48MP Resolution on 17ProMax and Air

I got the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Air this year. However I found something about the camera resolution issues, if surrounding has low light, such as street night, Air would force to 12MP photo, even night mode is off, but ProMax still keep 48. Both devices are turn on to HEIF48, is there anyway to "avoid" air photo to 12? Thanks

For example, somewhere like this:

[Edited by Moderator]

iPhone Air, iOS 26

Posted on Oct 12, 2025 2:25 PM

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1 reply

Oct 12, 2025 2:36 PM in response to popkartiphone

The resolution will vary with light levels and lens choice. The .5X ultra wide is f/2.2 and 4X telephoto is f/2.8. The 1X is f/1.78 and legs in more light than either of the other two lenses. So lens choice and light levels are big factors. But when it gets dark enough even the 1X will reduce to 12 megapixels to improve low light level performance.

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48MP Resolution on 17ProMax and Air

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