iPhone 8 3D Sensor and Camera Module Leaked in New Photo

iPhone 8 3D Sensor and Camera Module Leaked in New Photo
Text Size
- +

Toggle Dark Mode

An alleged photo of an iPhone 8’s 3D sensor camera module surfaced online yesterday, potentially giving us a first-hand look at the new technology.

The image appeared on SlashLeaks late on Monday, and although there is no information given beyond the photo and title, there are a few things to note. Compared to images of the dual-camera sensor module installed on the current-gen iPhone 7 Plus, there seems to be an extra component with an iridescent sheen to it. Presumably, this could be the component that allows for advanced 3D sensing. Of course, it’s difficult to tell whether or not the image in question is authentic, but, on the other hand, it’s not out of the ordinary for component leaks to occur this close to a products unveiling.

The 3D sensor module for the upcoming premium flagship has been called “revolutionary” by notable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities. The advanced suite of sensors will apparently allow the iPhone 8’s camera to capture 2D images with “unmatched depth of information.” It could also be used in conjunction with iOS 11’s ARKit development toolset to enhance augmented reality experiences, Kuo added. The analyst also added that the feature set could be used for gaming purposes, although he stopped short of elaborating on that capability.

Not only that, but it’ll boast 3D selfie capabilities, which will useful for the upcoming flagship’s advanced 3D iris and facial recognition. This “Face ID” feature is widely expected to replace Touch ID entirely on the iPhone 8 as the primary means of unlocking a device and authenticating purchases.

Unlike competing facial recognition systems currently on the market, Face ID is rumored to be secure enough for financial transactions, and will work in a “millionth of a second.” The system is also expected to boast advanced features like the ability to authenticate when a device is laying flat on a surface.

The addition of advanced 3D sensing capabilities is more of a confirmed fact than a rumor at this point. In June, an Apple supply partner called Largan Precision confirmed that it would be shipping 3D modules for a high-profile device later this year. While the company didn’t specify which device or company it would be shipping to, Apple will be the only major smartphone maker capable of releasing a flagship with such a feature this year.

The iPhone 8 (which may be called something else entirely) is slated for a launch next month. Beyond the 3D sensor module, it’s also expected to sport a brand new design including a glass sandwich construction and an edge-to-edge OLED display. It’s also rumored to be the first iPhone to do away with the Home button, and along with its iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus stablemates, is also expected to feature wireless charging capabilities.

[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]

Read iPhone X Overview
Sponsored
Social Sharing