PGYTECH has announced the launch of the RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit on Kickstarter. The product is designed to extend iPhone photography beyond standard smartphone use by combining physical camera-style controls, optical telephoto hardware, external storage support, and a dedicated imaging app.
RetroVa supports iPhone 16 Pro / Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max models and is positioned as a modular imaging system aimed at creators who prefer a structured, camera-like shooting workflow.
RetroVa Grip Kit
The RetroVa Grip Kit focuses on everyday and street photography, with an emphasis on handling stability and extended recording.
Key features:
- Camera-style grip with a mechanical shutter button
- Metal controls and leather-textured exterior
- Zero-lag physical shutter operation
- Built-in microSD card slot for external recording
- Support for ProRes, HEVC, and RAW formats
- Designed for one-handed and walk-around shooting
RetroVa Ultimate Kit
The RetroVa Ultimate Kit expands the Grip Kit by adding PGYTECH’s 2.35× Master Telephoto Extender, enabling long-range photography using optical hardware rather than digital zoom.
Additional features:
- 2.35× optical telephoto extender
- Intended for street, travel, portrait, wildlife, and long-distance photography
- 13-element, 3-group optical construction using ED glass
- Optimized for the iPhone’s f/2.8 aperture
Telephoto focal range:
- iPhone 17 Pro series: 235mm (4×) optical, up to 2350mm equivalent
- iPhone 16 Pro series: 282mm (5×) optical, up to 1410mm equivalent
Shared features and other highlights
Both RetroVa kits use the same hardware ecosystem and software platform.
Common features include:
- Camera-inspired design with physical controls and classic proportions
- Support for the PGYTECH Pro Imaging App
- Vintage-style shooting interface with real-time film-style rendering
- Manual control over shutter speed, ISO, and white balance
- Reduced system sharpening to preserve a natural image look
- Custom watermark and frame options
- USB 3.1 connectivity with transfer speeds of up to 312MB/s
- Modular accessory support, including lenses, filters, straps, and mounts
Storage and workflow notes:
- External microSD recording supported
- 4K60+ ProRes external recording is not supported
Quick Specs: RetroVa Grip Kit / RetroVa All-in-one Ultimate Gift Set
Pricing and Availability
PGYTECH is offering Kickstarter-exclusive launch pricing:
- RetroVa Grip Kit (Includes camera grip and phone case) — USD 72 (Rs. 6,590 approx.)
- RetroVa All-in-One Ultimate Set (Includes grip kit and 2.35× telephoto extender) — USD 184 (Rs. 16,840 approx.)
RetroVa is available for purchase via Kickstarter.com
The company has also confirmed future compatibility with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Existing users will only need to replace the phone case while continuing to use existing RetroVa accessories. Backers will receive a 50% discount coupon on future RetroVa upgrades. The upgrade path applies only to same-size transitions.