Apple could turn to Samsung for camera sensor for its iPhone 18 series
Apple could be turning to Samsung to supply camera sensors for its iPhone 18 series, according to claims from an industry analyst. Sony is currently the iPhone maker’s primary supplier of CMOS (CIS) image sensors, but that could change when the iPhone 18 series launches, reportedly sometime in 2026. Notably, Apple will also reportedly launch a foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 series, featuring a clamshell design that could be similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series.
iPhone 18 camera leak
According to a after on X (formerly Twitter) by TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will source the ultra-wide camera for its alleged iPhone 18 series from Samsung. It is speculated that it is a 1/2.6-inch 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle sensor. The move would “break” Sony’s monopoly on supplying CIS sensors to Apple.
To ensure there is no shortage of supplies, Samsung has set up a special team focused on Apple, Kuo suggested. However, the analyst did not reveal whether there would be changes to the primary and telephoto sensors on the iPhone 18.
The development follows reports that the Cupertino-based tech company is looking to bolster the camera systems on its smartphones. It has already been reported that Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 Pro could feature the 5X telephoto lens that it debuted with last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max. Furthermore, the 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera could be bumped up to 48 megapixels.
A previous report suggested that the iPhone 17, which is speculated to be released next year, could feature a “mechanical system” to control the camera’s aperture. If it comes to fruition, it could allow the iPhone’s camera to create a better depth of field for the bokeh effect.
Foldable iPhone in the making
In addition to the camera improvements, Apple is also reportedly planning a foldable iPhone model that could launch alongside the iPhone 18 series in 2026. Unlike popular book-style foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and OnePlus Open, Apple’s intended device could feature a clamshell design.
Kuo believes that this smartphone has an internal codename of “V68”, and that it is past the conceptual stage. The alleged foldable iPhone may be an “official product in development with suppliers”.
