- Apple is reportedly roping in Samsung to get new 48MP CMOS ultrawide sensors on-board iPhone 18 series.
- This would end Sony's reign as the monopoly while adding over-reliance on Samsung which supplied OLED panels as well.
- The move is expected to be made in 2026 for the iPhone 18 series and Samsung has already set up a dedicated team to cater to Apple's high-standards.
We are still a few weeks away from the iPhone 16 series and yet, there have been ample leaks spanning across the iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 series set to launch in 2025 and 2026, respectively. According to the latest information coming from prolific Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is set to diversify camera sensors used on future iPhones. It is reportedly roping in Samsung to manufacture its ultrawide snappers for the iPhone 18 series, possibly keeping Sony to take care of other sensors.
Apple and Samsung to Join Forces for CMOS Sensor on iPhone 18 Series in 2026
Kuo took it to X.com to disclose the specifics of the development. She mentioned Apple will use a 48MP ultrawide 1/2.6” sensor on the iPhone 18 family coming in the fall of 2026. Although we are still two years away from the launch, the leak does hold gravitas as Apple is known for diversifying its supply chain especially when a reputable analyst is quoting such development.
Coming back to Samsung, the South Korean has reportedly set up a dedicated team that will take care of Apple’s needs. Of course, you require not worry about the quality since Samsung will eventually have to meet the high standards set by Apple for the ultrawide snappers. Unfortunately, we aren’t aware if the contract includes wide-angle and telephoto sensors as well. For now, we could say Apple will be working with both Sony and Samsung for the camera sensors.
Sony has long been a monopoly in the camera department across iPhone lineups. Samsung, on the other hand, has maintained its top contenders when it comes to the OLED panels that iPhones used such as almost the entire iPhone 15 units are from the South Korean giant.
As of now, Samsung hasn’t declared the partnership and neither has Apple. We might see the iPhone 17 series as the last to use Sony’s CMOS (CIS) ultrawide sensor before the Cupertino-based giant switches to Samsung for the CIS.
One might argue that Apple is relying on Samsung more than it should. Although it is true given the Cupertino-based giant has always had a dual sourcing strategy on components, Apple might be in for something with Samsung. Thus, switching the manufacturer probably only on the ultrawide sensor while keeping Sony on other image sensors.
