Apple has traditionally taken a cautious approach when it comes to boosting the megapixel count on its iPhones. Even so, it has continued to lead the camera game thanks to its advanced computational photography. Apple only just moved from a 12MP to a 48MP sensor, and now a fresh leak has suggested that it is testing a gargantuan 200MP update to its cameras.
While this move seems sudden, it’s a logical step forward, especially considering that rivals like Samsung have already begun to implement 200MP sensors in their flagship offerings.
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Apple Reportedly Testing 200MP Camera for Future iPhones, Could Debut on 2027 Pro Models
The leak originates from the popular Chinese leaker Weibo account Digital Chat Station, which says that Apple is testing a 200MP sensor at the moment. While exact technical details about the sensor in question have not been provided, this camera would presumably be employed as the main rear camera, likely making its first appearance in the ‘Pro’ models before rolling out to the rest of the range. One model that could greatly benefit from this upgrade is the rumored iPhone Air.
According to reports, this device will feature a single-lens configuration, much like the iPhone 16e, and whip-smart enhancements combined with the 200MP sensor could vastly increase photo and video resolution, as well as digital zoom, possibly ranging from 2x to 5x, without sacrificing image quality. Achieving that with a 48MP lens is more challenging. It isn’t clear yet when Apple may introduce 200MP cameras.
As far as the iPhone 17 series – presumably that is the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air – 48MP is very likely to stay put as the sensor, which was itself a hike upwards from its age-old 12MP shooters. Meanwhile, Samsung has been using 200MP sensors since the Galaxy S23 Ultra launched in 2023 and continues to lead in this area. Looking ahead, Apple’s 2027 iPhones—its 20th anniversary models—are expected to showcase a major redesign. It’s safe to assume that these will be the first to sport the 200MP sensors and represent the next generation of iPhone hardware.
FAQs
Is Apple really working on a 200MP iPhone camera?
Yes, leaks suggest Apple is testing a 200MP sensor for future iPhones.
When will the 200MP camera likely debut?
It’s expected to arrive with the 2027 iPhone Pro models.
