Apple considers dual 48MP cameras for ultrathin iPhone Air in 2026

Apple is evaluating adding a second rear camera to its ultrathin iPhone Air for a 2026 launch, according to a Chinese leaker and industry commentary, a change that would mark a notable shift from the current single‑lens design. The device under evaluation would retain the Air series focus on a slim, light chassis while gaining a dual 48‑megapixel camera system alongside a 6.5‑inch high‑refresh Super Retina XDR display and Face ID, the leaker said.

The plan under discussion would place a 48MP ultrawide sensor next to the existing 48MP main sensor in the Air’s horizontal camera plateau, preserving the model’s distinctive side‑by‑side camera layout rather than adopting the vertical arrangement used on the standard iPhone. The plateau currently houses camera hardware and a portion of the phone’s logic board, a design choice that frees internal space for a larger battery. Adding a second sensor would therefore require internal redesign to accommodate the extra optics without substantially thickening the phone, according to supply‑chain commentary cited by the leaker.

The change is aimed at addressing two frequent criticisms of the current Air model: its single rear camera and a...