While much remains unknown about the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup, a new leak has offered us compelling evidence of changes coming to its camera configuration. 

Majin Bu, a Twitter/X user, known for occasionally sharing accurate iPhone design details, has shared an image reportedly depicting the rear camera chassis of the standard iPhone 16 model.

The image shows a vertical camera layout, signaling a departure from the diagonal design featured in the current iPhone 15 and 15 Plus. Industry sources have independently verified the authenticity of this leaked component. 

MacRumors also verified the authenticity of the component design shared by the user. Through their industry sources, the publication confirmed that “the item featured in Bu’s post is the main camera chassis for the I-34 camera project, intended for use in the base model ‌iPhone 16‌ set to be released later this year.”

This potential change wouldn’t be unprecedented, as Apple has used vertical camera arrangements in the past, including models like the iPhone X and iPhone 12.

This rumored change aligns with numerous previous leaks and prototype images hinting at an updated camera design for the iPhone 16 series. Beyond cosmetic alterations, there’s speculation that this shift could have functional implications as well.

One possibility is that Apple intends to expand its Spatial Video feature beyond the Pro models. Spatial Video enables 3D video capture viewable with Apple Vision Pro. Bringing this capability to the standard iPhone 16 would broaden its appeal, though Apple has made no official statements confirming this.

As always, it’s important to remember that leaks, even those with verified components, aren’t definitive proof of Apple’s final plans. Still, mounting evidence points to a noteworthy shift in the iPhone 16’s camera design.

We’ll continue to provide updates on the iPhone 16 and other devices in the lineup as more information becomes available.

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