Samsung’s New ‘3-Layer Stacked’ Sensor Development for Apple: A More Advanced Alternative to Sony’s Exmor RS for iPhones

Apple’s longstanding reliance on Sony for camera sensors is facing a potential shift, as the tech giant explores new partnerships. As seen in the latest iPhone 16 lineup, the exclusive relationship with Sony had been a necessity, but recent developments suggest that Apple may soon diversify its supply chain by incorporating Samsung’s technology. Notably, Samsung, which already supplies Apple with OLED panels for a variety of products, is reportedly working on cutting-edge camera sensors that could challenge Sony’s dominance.

Rumors of Samsung’s Groundbreaking Camera Sensors for Future iPhones

According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Samsung is set to provide Apple with advanced 48MP sensors aimed for the upcoming iPhone 18, anticipated to release in approximately two years. This speculation, originally suggested in July 2024, indicates a significant shift in Apple’s sourcing strategy. Further corroborating this information, tipster @Jukanlosreve revealed on X that Samsung is developing a novel 3-layer stacked sensor specifically for Apple, utilizing a configuration dubbed ‘PD-TR-Logic’.

The configuration denotes a unique design wherein processing chips are positioned at the back of the sensor, with three chips layered on top of each other, resembling a sandwich. This innovative stacking technique offers substantial advantages, chiefly by reducing the distance pixels must traverse, thereby speeding up processing times. For smartphones, this feature becomes crucial; users seeking to capture spontaneous moments tend to prioritize quick snapshots over lengthy processing delays.

If this technology is applied to the iPhone 18 series, preliminary reports suggest that Samsung’s unnamed 3-layer stacked sensor could surpass the capabilities of Sony’s Exmor RS lineup. Additionally, while the specifics of the ‘PD-TR-Logic configuration’ remain unclear, it may signal advanced packaging techniques that enhance overall sensor performance. As Samsung prepares for mass production of a 500MP camera for its future Galaxy flagship devices, which will similarly feature a stacked design, it’s evident that the competition in smartphone camera technology is heating up.

With these latest developments, it seems the era of Sony being Apple’s sole supplier for camera sensors may be coming to a close. However, numerous questions linger regarding the possible introduction of Samsung’s sensors. Notably, which specific iPhone model will be the first to integrate this cutting-edge technology? As this story unfolds, we invite you to share your perspectives and inquiries in the comments below.

News Source: @Jukanlosreve

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