Apple has relied on Sony and its camera sensors for years, but the monopoly that the Japanese technology firm has attained is not beneficial for the iPhone maker in the long run, which is why some diversification is needed. Samsung, which also manufactures similar hardware, was previously reported to supply Apple with 48MP units for the iPhone 18 series next year, putting an end to Sony’s firm grip in this sector. Unfortunately, those plans will materialize a little later than usual because an analyst says that full-scale production has been postponed until 2027.
New report states that Samsung will not be given the opportunity to provide sensors for Apple’s flagship models first, hinting that some refinement will be in order
Previous-generation and current iPhones have relied on Samsung parts for years, with the Korean giant fulfilling display, DRAM and NAND chip orders for Apple, cementing its position as one of the most reliable supply chain parts for the Cupertino giant. Now, diving into a new category would not only benefit Samsung in adding another revenue stream to its list, but also help Apple leverage better component prices for multiple devices.
The Suwon-based titan was previously rumored to provide a 3-stack CMOS image sensor for the iPhone 18 lineup that would offer better results in various aspects, but TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that there has been a change in the plans. Instead of these sensors entering mass production in 2026, Kuo predicts that the hardware will now be manufactured in 2027, though he does not explain why these plans have been postponed.
Also, despite Samsung having secured years of manufacturing experience under its belt for various iPhone parts, it still needs to prove itself to Apple regarding camera sensors. Kuo states that this optics hardware will not immediately debut in the top-end models, but ultrawide-angle units will first make their way to the low-end to mid-range handsets, then make their way to the more expensive versions.
Samsung could use this opportunity to improve its technology over time, and with Apple as a customer, it could invest more effort and resources into developing superior camera sensors that it can also incorporate in its flagship smartphones. Assuming what Kuo has mentioned above are Apple’s plans, it is similar to what the company did with its in-house 5G modem.
The C1 first debuted in the iPhone 16e instead of being introduced as a wireless solution in the more expensive iPhone 17 series, allowing Apple to refine its baseband chip’s capabilities when it announces the C2. For now, Sony will continue to be Apple’s exclusive camera sensor supplier.
News Source: Ming-Chi Kuo
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
Follow Wccftech on Google to get more of our news coverage in your feeds.
