Samsung is producing next-generation image sensor chips for the upcoming iPhone at a factory in Texas, marking a major shift in Apple's history as Samsung breaks Sony's dominance in the fruit chain.
Breaking the newsThis chip is a three-layer stacked image sensor.By vertically stacking multiple sensor layers, higher pixel density and better low-light performance can be achieved. The stacked sensor architecture can also increase reading speed, reduce power consumption, and improve dynamic range. This manufacturing process has not yet been commercialized on a large scale. People familiar with the matter said that these sensors will be supplied by Samsung's LSI department and mass-produced by its wafer foundry department.
What’s more, these image sensors produced in Texas will be used in next year’s iPhone 18 series. Apple usually conducts final component verification and mass production well in advance of product release, which means that the factory in Austin, Texas is already gearing up to prepare for initial production testing.
This is the first time that Apple has not relied on image sensors supplied by Sony, and instead produces this component in the United States. Currently, Sony is the sole supplier of image sensors for iPhones, and these sensors are produced in Japan.
Apple said in a statement that it is working with Samsung to use its factory in Austin, Texas to launch an innovative chip manufacturing technology.This technology has never been used globally, and by being the first to bring it to the United States, the factory will supply chips that optimize the power consumption and performance of Apple products, including iPhone devices.
