iPhone 6 Release Date Rumors: Next Device To Keep Rear 8-Megapixel Sensor But Offer Better Image Stabilzation

The China Post is reporting that Largan Precision, Apple’s iPhone camera module supplier, saw its stock take a significant dip earlier this week amid the rumors that Apple would not upgrade the resolution of the rear camera for the iPhone 6, which is rumored to be launching later this year. A Nomura Securities analyst was cited who indicated that while the iPhone 6 should see some camera improvements such as enhanced optical image stabilization the new iPhone will continue to use the 8-megapixel sensor it has now. Rather than upgrading to a higher-resolution sensor in the 12-16 megapixel range, which many of Apple’s competitors are using such as the Samsung Galaxy S4 which uses a 13-megapixel auto focus camera.

According to Nomura Securities Apple has not changed the iPhone 6’s camera because they want to retain the size of the iPhone and not make it larger, which also goes along with the rumor that Apple is trying to create the thinnest iPhone ever. “Apple may adopt an 8 mega-pixel (MP) camera with improved optical image stabilization on its upcoming handset, instead of the 16 MP upgrade anticipated by industry observers. Apple's decision is based on the design requirement to retain the handset's more portable form factor,” said Nomura securities analyst.

Apple first introduced the 8-megapixel rear camera on the iPhone 4S model in 2011. The company then used similar modules for the iPhone 5 in 2012 and the iPhone 5c last year. While Apple’s flagship smartphone, the iPhone 5s, continues to use an 8-megapixel sensor, the device achieves significant camera improvements through increased pixel size and a larger aperture. As well as a ”True Tone” dual LED flash, software enhancements and much more.

As of now this is just speculation as Apple has yet to confirm any features or specs for the iPhone 6. Rumors suggest that the new smartphone will be announced at Apple’s annual World Wide Developers Conference over the summer or will be announced at the annual press event in the fall. Last year at WWDC Apple announced the new iOS 7 software, iTunes Radio, OS X Mavericks and the new MacBook Air. It’s likely Apple could announce the new phone at WWDC or the company could stick to tradition and announce the phone early September for an early October release. It’s still too early to tell at this time so we’ll just wait and see.