Sorry Sony, Apple iPhone set to use 48MP Samsung camera

After OLED, Samsung is entering Apple’s CIS supply chain. Ming-Chi Kuo today revealed that Samsung could start shipping 48MP camera for Apple iPhone models as early as 2026. It’s a big blow to Apple’s conventional image supplier, Sony.

For years, Sony has dominated Apple’s iPhone camera supply chain. The entry of Samsung in the Apple iPhone 48MP camera supply is certain in early 2026. The source mentioned that Samsung had to form a dedicated team to serve Apple.

As Samsung’s supply could start in 2026, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 may still use Sony sensors. As the Korean tech giant preps for supply, Apple may have considered completing its agreement/contract with Sony for the iPhone camera.

Ming-Chi Kuo’s article reads:

• Samsung is expected to begin shipping 1/2.6-inch 48MP ultra-wide CMOS image sensors (CIS) to Apple for iPhones as early as 2026, breaking Sony’s years-long monopoly on supplying CIS to Apple. To this end, Samsung has established a dedicated team to serve Apple.

The gap of nearly two years would result in some changes in camera supply. The iPhone maker may also opt for a multi-vendor strategy to freeze prices. Having more than a single supply chain partner empowers the manufacturer during price negotiation.

Kuo notes that Samsung will supply a 1/2.6-inch image sensor for iPhone. The product will have a 48-megapixel resolution. It will likely be used as an ultra-wide camera in future iPhones, while others will still be from Sony.