Apple is said to be exploring multispectral imaging technology for future iPhone cameras . This technology could improve visual intelligence , enhance material detection , and improve image processing .
In a post on Weibo, leaker Digital Chat Station said that Apple is currently evaluating components related to multispectral imaging within its supply chain. However, he cautioned that formal testing has not yet begun, suggesting that the technology remains in the exploratory stage.
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Multispectral imaging differs from conventional smartphone photography, which relies solely on standard red, green and blue light. Instead, the technology records image data in multiple, distinct wavelength bands that can add “sensitivity” to near-infrared or other narrow spectral ranges. This could potentially allow cameras to detect information that is largely invisible to conventional sensors.
Advantages of multispectral imaging
One potential benefit of multispectral imaging in future iPhones could be improved material and surface differentiation. By analyzing how different materials reflect light at different wavelengths, the iPhone camera could more accurately distinguish skin, fabric, vegetation, or reflective surfaces, allowing for clearer subject recognition and more reliable portrait effects.
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Additionally, multispectral data could improve overall image processing , especially when shooting in mixed-light environments. It could also theoretically improve Apple's Visual Intelligence and on-device machine learning , leading to better object recognition, scene understanding, and depth estimation .
However, adding additional spectral sensitivity would likely require more complex sensor designs, which would certainly increase costs.
This may be why Apple is reportedly still evaluating the technology, rather than actively testing it on prototypes.
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In any case, it’s not something we should expect on an iPhone anytime soon. In the same Weibo post, Digital Chat Station reiterated that the main lens on the iPhone 18 Pro models will feature a variable aperture, while the telephoto lens will have a larger aperture. However, Apple has yet to start prototyping 200-megapixel cameras for future iPhones.
