China’s leading image sensor makers appear to be preparing a new wave of flagship camera hardware, as leaked details point to high-resolution sensors designed to compete more directly with Sony and Samsung.
According to well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, SmartSens and OmniVision are working on several next-generation sensors, including multiple 200MP models and a new 50MP 1-inch sensor. Many of the upcoming designs reportedly use LOFIC technology, which is aimed at improving dynamic range in difficult lighting conditions.
Among the leaked sensors are the SCC80XS from SmartSens and OV52A and OV52B from OmniVision. All three are 200MP sensors in a 1/1.28-inch format and are said to be optimized for periscope telephoto cameras. The tipster claims that three of China’s top five smartphone brands are already testing these sensors for future devices.
SmartSens is also said to be preparing a higher-end option, the SCC90XS, described as a more advanced 200MP 1/1.28-inch sensor with next-generation LOFIC support. This model is reportedly being positioned as a main camera sensor for ultra-premium flagship phones.
More ambitious still are two one-inch sensors from SmartSens, the SC5A6XS and SC5E0XS. Both are tipped to use a 50MP resolution on a one-inch sensor size, again with upgraded LOFIC technology. If they reach production, these sensors could appear in next-generation or later flagship models, with a focus on improved low-light performance and detail.
Model names offer some clues, with “SC” indicating SmartSens designs and “OV” referring to OmniVision. The SCC80XS, which launched in October 2025, is already built on a 22nm stacked process with 0.61μm pixels and supports advanced HDR and autofocus features.
Taken together, the leaks highlight how quickly Chinese sensor makers are closing the gap with established players. If adopted widely, these sensors could play a major role in shaping smartphone camera performance in 2026 flagships.
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