Two Upcoming 2020 iPhones to Feature Time-of-Flight 3D Sensing Rear Cameras

Two of the iPhones set to be released in 2020 will feature 3D sensing rear camera setups with time-of-flight (ToF) camera lenses, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who shared the info in a note to investors that was obtained by MacRumors.

A time-of-flight camera system measures the time that it takes for a laser or LED to bounce off of objects in a room, providing an accurate 3D map of the surroundings.

All three of the new iPhones are also expected to feature a front-facing camera system with Face ID, which deviates a bit from some rumors that have suggested an under-display fingerprint sensor could be coming to some 2020 iPhone models.

We predict that three new 2H20 iPhone models will all be equipped with front Face ID, and two of the new models will provide rear ToF. We estimate that shipments of iPhone models equipped with front and rear VCSEL (front structure light and rear ToF) will be 45mn units in 2020.

We’ve previously heard multiple rumors suggesting a time-of-flight camera system for the 2020 iPhones, including info from Kuo himself, but this is the first time that he’s specified that he expects the 3D sensing camera system to be available in just two of the three upcoming 2020 iPhones.

Kuo goes on to say that a rear time-of-flight camera would bolster photo quality and offer new and improved AR applications. Apple and Huawei are believed to be the “most aggressive brand vendors” supporting 5G and ToF in 2020.

The current 3D sensing capabilities used in the front-facing True Depth camera system rely on infrared cameras and a dot projector to create a 3D image, but ToF systems use lasers technology, calculating the time it takes for a laser to bounce off of surrounding objects to create a 3D image of what’s around you. ToF offers up more accurate depth perception, resulting in better placement of virtual objects, and it should offer up improved images thanks to the more advanced depth information.

Previous rumors from Bloomberg have suggested that the rear camera in Apple’s 2020 iPhones, which will use use VCSEL (vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser) technology, will be able to scan objects up to 15 feet away, mapping out wide areas. Face ID currently works at about 25 to 50 centimeters away.

Kuo said in a prior investor’s note that implementing ToF would require 5G connectivity because Apple would want to use the feature to create a “revolutionary AR experience.” All 2020 iPhones are expected to feature 5G chips.

Rumors suggest Apple is planning to release three iPhones in 2020, but in new sizes. Apple is said to be working on 5.4 and 6.7-inch high-end iPhones with OLED displays, which would presumably be the devices to adopt the 3D-capable rear camera systems, and a lower-cost 6.1-inch model with an OLED display.

More information on what to expect in the 2020 iPhones can be found in the dedicated what’s next section of our 2019 iPhone roundup.

Related Roundup: 2019 iPhonesTag: Ming-Chi Kuo
This article, “Two Upcoming 2020 iPhones to Feature Time-of-Flight 3D Sensing Rear Cameras” first appeared on MacRumors.com

Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors-All?d=6W8y8wAjSf4 MacRumors-All?d=qj6IDK7rITs

Related posts

Latest posts

Chrome tab groups now allow mobile-desktop sync, and it’s utter chaos

Do I want to see my mobile tab groups on PC? Yes, but only the work stuff. My Reddit memes on desktop? Oh, heck no. It also acts very weird, as per irked users.

I tried a stylus with location tracking. It ruined Apple Pencil for me

The ESR Geo Digital Pencil adds Apple Find My support at a fraction of the Apple Pencil's sticker price. Is it reliable? Let's just say ESR schools Apple!

Google Pixel phone’s Emergency SOS sent a person’s nudes to friends

The emergency assistance system on Pixel phones can also record videos and share it with your friends and family members. You can choose to disable it, though.

Motorola reminds me that I don’t need the best

Motorola is the king of budget phones, but it's clear the company hasn't been resting on its laurels.

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are now 20% OFF for Presidents’ Day at Best Buy

Samsung's Galaxy 3 Pro AI earbuds are currently 20% OFF at Best Buy for the retailer's Presidents' Day sale.

News Weekly: OnePlus skips the Open 2, Android 16 Beta 2 arrives on Pixels, and more

This week took us through OnePlus' decision to stall its next foldable, Android Beta 2 arrived, Samsung devices got a

TSMC in dilemma as US pushes ‘Made in USA’ strategy with Intel

The U.S. government has given the Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturer TSMC three proposals to keep producing with the country, which brought up several challenges.

I’ve found a perfect use for the Galaxy Ring, but I can’t recommend it

The Samsung Galaxy Ring was a miss for me — but I've still managed to find the perfect use for it. Only, I can't recommend it to anyone. Here's why.

Why I’m sad this delightful iPhone camera is about to go away

It looks certain Apple will take the 12-megapixel away from its cheapest iPhone very soon. Let me explain why I'm sad about it.

Moto G Power 2025 review: A solid $300 phone

What makes the Moto G Power 2025 a great phone despite being just $300? Find out in our review.