It’s no secret that Apple’s iPhone camera hardware has consistently pushed the envelope, but the native software has historically remained simple and consumer-friendly. However, that might be about to change. With the iPhone 18 Pro rumored to feature hardware that rivals professional-grade cameras, Apple is reportedly planning a major overhaul of its built-in camera app to finally give users pro-level manual controls.

Interestingly, Apple’s push for better camera software almost led to the acquisition of Lux Optics, the popular development studio behind the acclaimed third-party camera app, Halide.

Apple’s Push for Pro Software 

According to a new report from The Information’s Aaron Tilley, Apple held acquisition talks with Lux Optics last summer. The goal was to secure Lux’s intellectual property—which powers advanced apps like Halide, the video-focused Kino, and long-exposure app Spectre—to accelerate the development of Apple's own default camera app.

With the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro expected to introduce advanced capabilities that blur the line between smartphones and dedicated professional cameras, Apple reportedly feels the current, basic iOS Camera app needs a significant "pro" upgrade to match them.

Acquisition Talks and Legal Drama 

The talks between Apple and Lux Optics ultimately fizzled out in September 2025, when Lux cofounders Sebastiaan de With and Ben Sandofsky reportedly agreed that holding out for future Halide updates could increase their studio's valuation.

Unfortunately, the details of Apple’s acquisition interest only came to light recently due to a messy legal dispute. Sandofsky has filed a lawsuit against de With, alleging the misuse of company funds. According to the suit, Sandofsky placed de With on leave in October before officially firing him from Lux Optics in December. The lawsuit also claims that de With still possesses confidential materials regarding Lux's future roadmap, as well as the studio's Apple Design Award.

What This Means for the Future of iOS 

Despite the unfortunate friction at Lux Optics and the failed acquisition, Apple still managed to scoop up top-tier talent. Two months ago, Sebastiaan de With announced he was officially joining Apple’s design team.

While it is sad to see such turbulence behind one of the App Store's most beloved indie apps, Apple’s underlying strategy is clear: there is a mandate in Cupertino to vastly improve first-party photography tools. There wouldn't be a market for apps like Halide without Apple's incredible camera hardware, and it makes perfect sense that Apple wants its native software to catch up to the hardware's true potential.

De With bringing his extensive UI/UX and camera design chops to Apple, it’s highly likely his influence will be felt across the ecosystem. We may get our first glimpse of this upgraded, pro-focused camera experience as soon as iOS 27 debuts at WWDC 2026.