An optical instrument designed to enhance the zoom capabilities of a mobile device’s integrated camera. This accessory typically employs lenses or a series of lenses to magnify distant objects, projecting a larger image onto the smartphone’s sensor. As a result, users are able to capture detailed photographs and videos of subjects that would otherwise appear small and indistinct.
These devices offer portability and ease of use, enabling enhanced photographic possibilities in situations where traditional camera equipment may be impractical. The ability to capture detailed images of wildlife, sporting events, or celestial objects using a smartphone has democratized access to telephoto photography. Early adaptations were often bulky and cumbersome, but modern designs have focused on compactness and improved optical quality, leading to wider adoption by consumers and professionals alike.