Apple Nearly Acquires Lux Optics to Enhance iPhone Camera Experience

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Apple nearly acquired Lux Optics, the startup developer of the Halide camera app, in an effort to enhance the iPhone camera experience. Lux Optics is also known as the developer of other imaging-related applications such as Kini, Spectre, and Orion. According to a report by GSM Arena on Saturday (21/3) local time, the deal was revealed by one of Lux Optics’ founders. The report suggests that Apple was very close to finalising the agreement and planned to improve the camera experience in the iPhone’s stock camera app if the deal succeeded. However, Lux Optics’ founders eventually decided not to proceed with the agreement, as they believed updates to their services, including Halide, could increase the company’s valuation. In fact, Apple appears ambitious about developing its camera experience, with rumours circulating that the company is working on a variable aperture feature for the iPhone 18 Pro, set for release this autumn. Therefore, it is not surprising that the company is seeking advanced software features to optimise the enhanced camera hardware experience. Although the deal with Lux Optics did not materialise, there is still a silver lining to the event. This move serves as a clear signal that Apple plans to offer significant improvements to the iPhone camera in 2026.