Industry analysts believe that Apple may turn to Samsung for the iPhone 18 series camera sensors. Currently, Sony is the main supplier of CMOS image sensors (CIS) to iPhone manufacturers, but that could change with the launch of the iPhone 18 series, expected around 2026. According to rumors, Apple will also launch a foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18. This series features a foldable design that may be similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series.
iPhone 18 camera leaked
According to a post by TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo on X (formerly Twitter), Apple plans to source ultra-wide-angle cameras for the iPhone 18 series from Samsung. It is speculated to be a 1/2.6-inch 48-megapixel ultra-wide sensor. This action is said to have “broken” Sony’s monopoly on supplying CIS sensors to Apple.
To counteract the supply shortages, Ko suggested that Samsung put together a special team to counter Apple. However, the analyst did not say whether there will be changes to the iPhone 18’s primary and telephoto sensors.
The development follows reports that the Cupertino-based tech company wants to improve the smartphone’s camera system. It was previously reported that Apple’s next iPhone 16 Pro may feature the 5x telephoto lens that was introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro Max last year. In addition, the 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera can be expanded up to 48 megapixels.
Previous reports suggested that the iPhone 17, expected to launch next year, may have a “mechanical system” to control the camera aperture. In this case, the iPhone camera can produce a better depth of field for bokeh effects.
Foldable iPhone on the map
Aside from camera improvements, Apple is developing plans for a foldable iPhone model that could launch with the iPhone 18 series in 2026. Unlike the currently popular foldable smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open, Apple’s claimed device is likely to feature a foldable design.
Kuo believes that the smartphone with the internal code V68 is beyond the concept stage. The foldable iPhone could be an “official product in development with suppliers.”
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
