No 200MP Camera for Apple iPhones Before 2028: Report

While reports suggest that tech giant Apple may skip the iPhone 18 launch this year, a new report claims that tech giant Apple is unlikely to feature a 200MP camera on its iPhones until 2028.

Although there is no official confirmation yet, this timeline indicates that the upgrade could arrive with the iPhone 21, only if the brand announces iPhone 18 this year. Here's what we know about it.

iPhone 21 to feature 200MP camera?

Citing a note to investors from Morgan Stanley, a report by AppleInsider suggests that the iPhone 21 - which might launch in 2029 - will likely be the tech giant's first iPhone model to be launched with a 200MP camera sensor. 

As per the report, the delay is likely because Apple is diversifying its supply chain and not just relying on just one supplier. Additionally, it is thought to support Apple's larger objectives to increase the production of iPhone components in the US.

Earlier reports suggest that Samsung could manufacture CMOS image sensors for iPhones at its facility in Austin, Texas. Those reports also claim that Apple plans to introduce a 200MP camera in a future iPhone, possibly due to Sony being unable to match Samsung’s current technological capabilities.

Meanwhile, Sony continues to supply LiDAR sensors for iPhones. Morgan Stanley notes that Apple is also in talks with STMicro as a potential additional supplier.

Meanwhile, a recent report suggests that there won't be an iPhone 18 this year, and that it will likely be announced alongside an updated variant of the iPhone 16e — likely the iPhone 17e — in spring 2027. 

If the report is to be believed, the tech giant will only reveal the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in fall 2026. However, it is worth noting that these details are based on speculation and reports, and the company hasn’t officially announced any of them, so they should be taken with a pinch of salt.