Samsung may have a 'plan' to beat Sony's iPhone camera 'dominance'
Apple may be reportedly considering a switch from Sony to Samsung for its iPhone camera sensors. A recent rumour shared by leaker Jukanlosreve on social media platform X (earlier Twitter) suggests that Samsung is developing a new "3-layer stacked" image sensor specifically for Apple. This sensor, which is expected to be more advanced than the Sony Exmor RS sensors which has been used in iPhones for over a decade. The leak also claims that the Samsung’s sensor may enhance the iPhone's camera capabilities. If the rumours are to be true Apple may even move away the supply chain of a critical iPhone component from Sony and Samsung.
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In the X post, the leaker wrote: “Samsung is currently developing a “3-layer stacked” image sensor in a PD-TR-Logic configuration for Apple. This sensor is more advanced than Sony’s existing Exmor RS, and I believe it cannot be ruled out as a potential candidate for the main sensor. Samsung is working on a 3-layer stacked image sensor for Apple, while simultaneously developing a 500MP sensor for its own Galaxy devices.”
How Samsung’s sensor can improve iPhone’s camera capabilities
A stacked sensor design integrates a processor directly onto the sensor, speeding up data transfer and improving camera responsiveness. Samsung’s rumored three-layer configuration may includes:
- Photodiode (PD): Captures light.
- Transfer (TR): Reduces noise (a new feature in Samsung sensors).
Apple’s potential switch to Samsung’s stacked camera sensor layers could improve image quality, processing speed and efficiency. This sensor can be particularly beneficial for smartphones where quick photo capture is essential. If this leak is true, it will mark a significant change, as Sony has supplied iPhone camera sensors since 2011.
This design is expected to bring faster processing and improved noise reduction to the iPhone in a compact form, ideal for fitting into models like a potential iPhone 17 Slim.
Additionally, Apple is also reportedly developing in-house modem technology to replace Qualcomm’s, aiming for greater control over performance and features. The company is also working on its own Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips, called Proxima, to replace Broadcom’s components, with a rollout expected this year.
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