Apple May Switch to Samsung Camera Sensors for iPhone 18

For over a decade, Apple has relied exclusively on Sony sensors to power its iPhone cameras. However, this longstanding partnership might be in for a significant shakeup. According to the latest information from leaker Jukanlosreve, the iPhone 18 could feature Samsung’s innovative “3-layer stacked” camera sensor, potentially replacing Sony’s Exmor RS technology.

This 3-layer stacked sensor is described as more advanced than Sony’s current offering. Built with three layers of circuitry, these sensors are engineered to deliver faster readout speeds, mitigate rolling shutter effects, enable higher frame rates, and significantly enhance low-light performance. Such improvements could mark a substantial leap in image quality for future iPhones. Additionally, this development aligns with older reports from well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggested Samsung might play a greater role in Apple’s camera hardware supply chain in the coming years.

Interestingly, Jukanlosreve notes that this 3-layer stacked sensor is separate from the rumored 500MP sensor Samsung is reportedly developing for its Galaxy devices. Meanwhile, Kuo predicted in 2024 that Samsung is preparing to supply Apple with a 1/2.6-inch 48MP ultra-wide CMOS image sensor as early as 2026. Samsung is said to have a dedicated team working on fulfilling Apple’s specific requirements, potentially challenging Sony’s dominance.

Despite these revelations, there’s no definitive confirmation that Apple will fully transition to Samsung sensors. Apple may instead use components from both Samsung and Sony, leveraging competition to secure better pricing and performance. Such a strategy would also align with the consistent appearance of Samsung Galaxy phones among the best camera devices globally, further highlighting Samsung’s technological prowess.

With the iPhone 18 over 18 months away, much can still change. Even as rumors of the iPhone 17’s specifications continue to circulate, Apple’s decisions on its camera suppliers remain uncertain. The ongoing rivalry between Samsung and Sony for Apple’s business could ultimately benefit consumers, delivering cutting-edge camera performance in future iPhone models.