M5 MacBooks May Use Compact Camera Modules, Expected in 2025: Kuo

Apple is reportedly looking to introduce a new compact camera module (CCM) for its upcoming M5-powered MacBook devices in 2025.

According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is looking to bring on Sunny Optical as the supplier of the new CCM for its M5 MacBooks. The optical lens supplier is expected to begin mass production of the CCM in Vietnam, says Kuo in the latest investor post on Medium. The new CCM is said to consist of a complete image system developed in a more compact form factor.

As of now, MacBooks feature camera modules that are supplied by LG Innotek and Sharp. Sunny Optical is the only supplier Apple can leverage that’s able to develop a CCM and lens within a single unit. Kuo believes that if its MacBook CCM shipments go smoothly, Kuo believes Sunny Optical may become the new CCM supplier for iPhone and iPad in the future.

It’s been reported earlier this year that Apple is planning to refresh its MacBook Pro lineup with a new M4 series chip as soon as late 2024. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims that the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro will receive a refresh alongside the Mac mini. Apple’s M4 is expected to support AI capabilities. However, the extent of this is not yet known. The M4 series is believed to be accompanied by M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.

Apple is also supposedly developing a thin model of its MacBook Pro, leveraging the ultrathin design of the 2024 iPad Pro. However, it’s not yet known when this refresh of the MacBook Pro may launch. This version isn’t believed to be a part of the M4 launch. Thus, it may be more likely that Apple is reserving the refresh for next year’s M5 MacBook series. \