Apple’s First Foldable iPhone to Feature Groundbreaking 24MP Under-Display Camera

Apple is planning a major leap in smartphone camera technology. The company’s first foldable iPhone will reportedly include a 24-megapixel camera hidden beneath its main screen. This detail comes from a recent JP Morgan supply chain forecast.

This would be a significant advancement over existing under-display cameras. Current models on Android phones typically use much lower resolution sensors.

Technical Breakthrough and Design Compromises

The reported 24-megapixel sensor is a huge jump. It suggests Apple has solved key issues with light transmittance and image quality. This is according to analysis seen by MacRumors.

However, the design involves some trade-offs. The JP Morgan report indicates the device will lack LiDAR and optical image stabilization. This was likely a decision to keep the foldable form factor slim and compact.

Complete Camera System and Expected Launch

The full camera system is taking shape. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests a dual-lens rear camera. The device is also expected to have a front-facing camera for both its folded and unfolded states.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman corroborates a four-camera setup. This would include one front camera, one inner camera, and two rear cameras. Leaker Digital Chat Station claims the two rear lenses will each be 48 megapixels.

Biometric authentication will also see a change. Apple is reportedly relying on Touch ID integrated into the side button instead of Face ID. This is a notable shift for a flagship iPhone.

Most sources point towards a fall launch next year. Yet, some analysts warn a postponement to 2027 is still possible. Japan’s Mizuho Securities cited ongoing decisions about key components like the hinge.

The integration of a high-resolution under-display camera could redefine the foldable iPhone experience. It promises a truly seamless, all-screen design without sacrificing front camera quality.

Thought you’d like to know

What is an under-display camera?

An under-display camera is a front-facing camera hidden beneath the phone’s screen. It becomes invisible to the user, allowing for a full-screen display without notches or punch-holes.

How does Apple’s 24MP camera compare to others?

It is a major resolution upgrade. Most current under-display cameras on Android devices use lower-resolution sensors, often around 4MP or 8MP, which can compromise photo quality.

Will the foldable iPhone have Face ID?

Current reports suggest it will not. Apple is expected to use a Touch ID sensor built into the device’s side button for biometric authentication instead.

When will Apple’s foldable iPhone be released?

Most forecasts point to a launch in the fall of next year. However, some analysts have not ruled out a potential delay to 2027 due to design finalization.

What are the camera compromises?

To achieve a slim design, the device may lack features like LiDAR for depth sensing and optical image stabilization (OIS) for the cameras, according to the report.

Trusted Sources

MacRumors, JP Morgan, Bloomberg, Ming-Chi Kuo, Mark Gurman, Digital Chat Station, Mizuho Securities.