Apple sat down for Halide in 2025: Why?

Apple to improve iPhone’s built-in Camera app Halide It considered purchasing its developer, Lux Optics. Talks held in the summer of 2025 were canceled in September; However, this move clearly reveals Apple’s plan to directly strengthen the camera software. On the user side, this means more advanced manual control and professional shooting features are on the way on iPhones.

According to information provided by The Information, Apple held acquisition negotiations with Lux Optics in the summer of 2025. The company has a common problem among iPhone users: Halide outside Kino, Specter And Orion It also develops advanced camera applications such as. With this acquisition, Apple aimed to bring the third-party software experience directly to its own Camera application.

The talks ended in September 2025. Lux Optics founders Ben Sandofsky and Sebastiaan de With did not accept the agreement, predicting that the company value would increase with future updates.

Apple wanted to strengthen the Camera application with the acquisition of Halide

Apple’s interest also coincides with its plans on the hardware side. It is said that the company is testing variable aperture technology in iPhone 18 Pro models. This system, which offers more flexible lens control, cannot reach its full potential without advanced software. Apple’s evaluation of Lux Optics stands out as an attempt to close this gap.

After the agreement was cancelled, a legal process began within Lux Optics. Sandofsky launched an investigation against de With, alleging misuse of company resources. Subsequently, de With was dismissed and later joined Apple’s design team.

Apple camera app Software developments planned for are continuing. Halide remains a standalone application; however, Apple’s focus on improving the built-in camera experience continues.