Samsung, Apple Adopting Triple-Lens Camera System For High-End Phones Next Year

Dual-lens smartphone camera modules would start to feel dated next year as big companies are reportedly adopting triple-lens systems for their high-end models. Apple and Samsung Electronics are expected to lead this big switch in 2019.

Market analysts told The Investor Monday that electronics parts makers are anticipating greater demand for triple-lens camera modules next year compared to this year. This is because Samsung, Apple and other major smartphone brands are preparing to roll out handsets with three rear-facing cameras in the following year.

“Samsung Electronics will fast respond to the latest smartphone camera trend by adopting the triple-lens camera system for its flagship models early next year,” Kiwoom Investment & Securities analyst Kim Ji-san said. The statement corroborates earlier reports claiming Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S10 flagship could have a triple-lens back camera setup.

The Galaxy S10 won’t be the first model to come equipped with such an advanced camera technology however. An industry source has already confirmed that Samsung is launching a mid-range Galaxy A device with a triple camera setup in the fourth quarter.

Samsung’s decision to adopt a triple-lens camera system for its new phones is seen as a result of the pressure the company has been experiencing ever since Chinese phone maker Huawei showcased the world’s first smartphone with triple rear lenses in March of this year.

Samsung Group’s electronic parts making affiliate Samsung Electro-Mechanics is going to benefit from the move because the adoption of the new technology would mean a jump in its profits in the coming months. After all, a triple camera module costs way more than a single-lens module and a dual-lens module.

Apple is also reportedly developing new iPhones with triple-lens camera modules. It can be noted that the Cupertino giant opted to reduce the production of the iPhone X, which features a dual-lens setup, early this year. This 2018, Apple’s new iPhones are still launching with dual rear cameras. But next year, the tech giant’s next-generation flagship device is believed to come equipped with three lenses on the back.

Many other companies are predicted to follow the trend. LG Electronics is said to be one of them. Chinese brands Xiaomi and Vivo are also preparing new handsets with three back lenses. “More smartphones will come fitted with three camera lenses and 3D-sensing cameras, which enable gesture navigation, spatial recognition and creation of augmented reality content,” Shinhan Investment analyst Park Hyeong-woo said.