PGYTech is taking a familiar idea from the Android world and giving it an iPhone-specific push: a 2.35x teleconverter kit designed to bring distant subjects closer without relying only on digital cropping.
The product is called the RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit, and it is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. PGYTech says the add-on lens can be paired with Apple’s built-in zoom to extend reach significantly on supported iPhones.
According to the details provided, the kit is intended for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, as well as the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. With the lens attached, it is described as enabling up to 10x native zoom, listed as 235mm, on the iPhone 17 Pro series. For the iPhone 16 Pro series, it cites 11.7x native zoom, listed as 282mm, using the same combination approach.
Interest from early backers appears strong. The campaign’s goal is stated as $10,000, and at the time of writing it had reached $60,109. The pledge price mentioned for backers is $184, while the post-campaign price is set at $229.95.
The “RetroVa” branding comes from the styling of the clip-on case that holds the lens. It includes a pronounced grip that’s meant to make the phone easier to handle for photos and video, and the case is also available on its own for those who want the ergonomics without the teleconverter.
A similar lens kit previously appeared bundled with high-end Vivo phones, and a tested Vivo version left a strong impression, with results described as noticeably better than typical external lens adapters. That said, the experience was not flawless, with stabilization and autofocus issues noted during use.
As with any crowdfunded product, paying in early does not guarantee delivery. Still, PGYTech’s prior work producing these types of lenses is presented as a reason some buyers may feel more confident.
The kit is scheduled to start shipping in March 2026. Alongside the lens and case, the bundle is said to include extra physical camera buttons and a microSD card slot, aiming to make the iPhone feel a little closer to a dedicated camera setup.
