Apple made a rather unusual change to its iPhone launch schedule this year. The company finally introduced its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. But the regular iPhone 18, which has traditionally launched alongside the Pro models, was nowhere to be seen. Earlier reports suggested Apple wanted to give its premium models more attention, while also dealing with rising component costs and manufacturing challenges. Now, it seems Samsung could also have something to do with the delay.
As per a report by Japanese publication Semicon Portal (via: Phonearena), Apple may be waiting for Samsung to manufacture enough camera sensors for the standard iPhone 18. Semiconductor journalist Takeshi Hattori believes the production timeline could explain Apple’s decision. Samsung reportedly started prototyping the sensors at its Austin, Texas, facility earlier this year, with mass production expected in the fall.
Samsung could be replacing Sony in future iPhones
Apple has relied on Sony for its iPhone camera sensors for years. But it seems that arrangement could be changing. Last August, Apple announced a manufacturing partnership with Samsung’s Texas facility, involving a new chipmaking technology. The company didn’t specify what the chips were for, although subsequent reports have linked them to future iPhone cameras.
Interestingly, Sony also appears to be preparing for more competition. During its November 5 earnings briefing, the company was asked about potentially losing its position as the sole image-sensor supplier to a major customer. CFO Lin Tao declined to discuss customer-specific plans, but acknowledged that buying components from multiple suppliers is normal business practice. The iPhone 18 is also rumored to retain a dual 48MP camera setup. Whether Samsung will supply either sensor is still a mystery.
What about the iPhone 18 launch?
The regular iPhone 18 is expected to arrive in the first half of 2027, possibly alongside the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2. However, reports about Apple’s staggered launch plans date back to May 2025, long before Samsung reportedly began prototyping its sensors. So the camera production theory isn’t exactly a confirmed explanation for the delay. Apple hasn’t offered one either.