According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known source for Apple-related rumors, Apple plans to diversify its camera sensor suppliers for iPhones. Currently, Sony is the exclusive supplier of camera sensors to Apple, but this is expected to change in two years.
Kuo reports that Apple will start purchasing sensors from Samsung for the iPhone 18 lineup, which is anticipated to launch in the fall of 2026. These will include a 48 MP 1/2.6" sensor specifically for ultrawide cameras.
Samsung has reportedly set up a dedicated team specifically to meet Apple's requirements, and it appears that a contract may already be in place. However, this is purely speculative on our part, as Kuo has not confirmed that detail.
It's currently uncertain what impact, if any, this switch will have on the iPhone 18 generation's camera quality compared to previous models. Given Apple's track record, we anticipate that the quality will be at least on par with the current Sony sensors, so there should be no cause for concern.
In related news, the iPhone 18 series is expected to feature a 48 MP ultrawide camera with a 1/2.6" sensor made by Samsung, although this sensor hasn't been officially announced yet. Once Samsung unveils a sensor with these specifications, it will likely be the one intended for the iPhones.