Samsung is reportedly conducting research to develop a 500 MP camera sensor for its future smartphone models. Despite analyses indicating that megapixel count is not the sole determinant of image quality in smartphones, Samsung appears committed to advancing super-high-resolution sensors. This initiative underscores the company’s strategic focus on increasing megapixel counts, even though higher resolutions can potentially introduce more noise into images.
In addition to its sensor development, Samsung is reportedly working on a specialized sensor designed to attract Apple’s orders. This move is seen as a direct challenge to Sony, which has long been the exclusive supplier of image sensors for iPhone cameras, holding that position for over a decade.
Recent reports suggest that Apple may soon transition to a new supplier for its camera sensors, aligning with the company’s strategy to diversify its supply chain and negotiate better pricing. Apple’s enduring partnership with Sony has been beneficial; for instance, CEO Tim Cook publicly acknowledged a visit to Sony’s camera sensor production facility in Kumamoto, Japan, over two years ago. However, industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently revealed that at least one camera sensor for the upcoming iPhone 18, which is expected to launch in 2026, will be manufactured by Samsung. This sensor is anticipated to feature a resolution of 48 MP, optimized for wide-angle photography, and includes a dedicated Samsung team to collaborate with Apple on the project.
Furthermore, this information has been corroborated by Jukanlosreve, an expert on Samsung’s current Exmor RS variants, who noted that the new multi-layer configuration could enhance overall performance and speed up camera response times.
