The iPhone 16 is anticipated to launch in the coming months, and recent reports have revealed details about its components. Notably, Apple may incorporate a new CMOS image sensor from Samsung for its upcoming models. This sensor is rumored to feature a three-wafer design, offering advantages over the current sensor used in the iPhone 15 series. If these claims are accurate, Samsung would join Sony as a supplier of camera sensors for Apple.
Samsung’s Cutting-Edge CMOS Image Sensor Could Transform the iPhone 16
According to The Elec, Apple is currently conducting final quality assessments on a new CMOS image sensor (CIS) provided by Samsung. This move marks a potential shift from their previous supplier, Sony, and is attributed to delays Apple experienced last year in receiving image sensors, which subsequently impacted the iPhone 15 launch schedule.
Apple is planning to incorporate cutting-edge technologies into its camera systems, inspired by recent advancements from its competitors. According to the report, separating the sensor’s internal components could lead to higher pixel density, smaller pixel sizes, and reduced noise, enhancing overall image quality.
Apple has reportedly reached out to Samsung to develop a new CMOS sensor for the iPhone, which is currently undergoing quality testing. This advanced sensor features a three-wafer stack design, with each wafer containing distinct elements.
Previous iPhone models have used sensors with a two-wafer stack design, where transistors and photodiodes are integrated on the same wafer. However, Samsung’s upcoming sensor might incorporate a more advanced technique known as wafer-to-wafer hybrid bonding. This process involves attaching wafers using a copper pad, potentially enhancing performance and efficiency, as reported by the publication.
Exciting Upgrade: iPhone 16 Pro Unveils Enhanced Ultra-Wide Angle Lens
The upcoming iPhone 16 Pro models are set to feature significant camera upgrades, including a 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera, a major improvement from the current 12-megapixel sensor. Additionally, the iPhone 16 Pro is expected to incorporate the innovative tetraprism lens, which first appeared in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This advanced lens will enable 5x optical zoom through the telephoto camera, enhancing the device’s photography capabilities.
Apple is rumored to be introducing a new anti-reflective optical coating technology called Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) to its cameras. It remains uncertain whether this innovation will be available on the iPhone 16 Pro, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, or both models.