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Samsung enters Apple CMOS image sensor supply chain

Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 12:21 AM

Samsung is reportedly entering Apple's CMOS image sensor (CIS) supply chain, potentially shifting market dynamics for the component manufacturing sector.

Context

Samsung is set to break Sony’s decade-long monopoly by entering Apple’s supply chain for CMOS image sensors (CIS). Recent industry reports indicate that Samsung has begun developing dedicated production lines to supply ultra-high-definition sensors as early as 2026, likely starting with the iPhone 18 series. This strategic shift allows Apple to diversify its hardware sources, mitigating supply chain risks while gaining significant leverage in price negotiations for its most expensive camera components. This development marks a major victory for Samsung’s System LSI division, positioning it to capture a larger share of the premium imaging market. While TSMC remains the exclusive manufacturer for Apple’s advanced logic chips, Samsung’s entry into the sensor stack highlights a pivot toward multi-sourcing. Investors should note that this transition could impact Sony’s market dominance as Samsung leverages its massive production scale to compete for high-volume orders driven by the growing demand for AI-enhanced mobile photography.

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