Apple Zone

Is Apple Finally Closing the Camera Gap with Samsung?

Is Apple Finally Closing the Camera Gap with Samsung?

Apple’s camera struggle is real, and the clock is ticking

For years, iPhone users have watched Samsung, Google, and others push smartphone photography to new heights—while Apple’s upgrades felt incremental. Now, rumors suggest the iPhone 17 lineup will finally bring a 24MP front-facing camera, doubling today’s 12MP resolution. But will it be enough to reclaim Apple’s crown?

As someone who’s compared iPhone and Samsung shots side-by-side, I’ll admit: Samsung’s dynamic range, color accuracy, and low-light performance often win. Apple needs this upgrade to matter. Let’s dive in.

📸 The Camera Crisis: iPhones Are Falling Behind

Why is this upgrade urgent? Let’s break it down:

  • 🚨 Samsung’s Dominance: The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 200MP sensor and AI-powered editing tools outclass Apple’s 48MP main camera in detail and versatility.
  • 🚨 Megapixel Stagnation: iPhones have used a 12MP front camera since the iPhone 11 (2019). Competitors like Google Pixel 8 Pro already use 10.5MP selfie cams with better software tuning.
  • 🚨 The Social Media Factor: TikTok and Instagram demand crisp, croppable selfies. A 24MP sensor means sharper zoom-ins and more editing flexibility.
a close up of a cell phone near a keyboard
Photo by Samuel Angor / Unsplash

✅ Apple’s Plan: 24MP Selfies (and More)

Analyst Jeff Pu confirms all four iPhone 17 models will feature a 24MP front camera—the biggest leap in years. Here’s what else is coming:

  • ✅ 48MP Telephoto for Pros: Pro models will reportedly get a 48MP zoom lens, matching Samsung’s flagship specs.
  • ✅ 12GB RAM Boost: More memory means smoother multitasking for photo/video editing apps.
  • ✅ A19 Chip Power: Built on TSMC’s 3nm N3P process, it’ll handle advanced computational photography faster.

Ming-Chi Kuo claims this setup will “significantly improve image quality,” especially in challenging lighting.

⚠️ Roadblocks Apple Can’t Afford to Miss

But hardware alone won’t fix Apple’s camera reputation:

  • ⚠️ Software Matters: Samsung’s AI-driven “Nightography” and Google’s computational magic set high bars. Apple’s Photonic Engine needs a major overhaul.
  • ⚠️ Price Hikes? Adding premium cameras and RAM could push iPhone 17 Pro prices past $1,200—alienating budget-conscious buyers.
  • ⚠️ Samsung Isn’t Standing Still: Rumors of a 400MP sensor for the Galaxy S25 mean Apple’s playing catch-up, not leading.

🚀 Final Thoughts: Will This Upgrade Matter?

As an Apple fan, I want this to work. The 24MP front camera and 48MP telephoto are steps in the right direction, but Apple needs to:

  • 🚀 Prioritize software: Better HDR, smarter portrait mode, and faster processing.
  • 🚀 Keep prices competitive: A $1,299 Pro Max won’t convert Samsung loyalists.
  • 🚀 Listen to creators: Offer more pro-level manual controls.

If Apple nails this, the iPhone 17 could finally close the gap. But if it’s just specs without soul, Samsung will keep its edge. What do you think—will 24MP be enough? Let us know on X(Former Twitter)

Sources: Jeff Pu. iPhone 17 to Feature 24MP Front-Facing Camera and More, March 17, 2025. https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/17/iphone-17-24mp-front-camera-more/

Read next