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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OMNIVISION released the OV50X, a 50MP CMOS image sensor targeting flagship smartphones. The sensor boasts a 1.6-micron pixel size within a 1-inch optical format, achieving approximately 110 dB single-exposure HDR, the highest in the mobile sector.

As per OMINVISION’s press release, the OV50X sensor is optimized for high-end devices, and facilitates 4-cell binning, producing 12.5MP output at 180 fps, and 60 fps with three-channel HDR. 8K video capture, dual analog gain (DAG) HDR, and on-sensor crop zoom are supported.

Its TheiaCel technology enables high dynamic range without multi-exposure, enhancing real-time preview and video quality. 100% quad phase detection (QPD) coverage ensures rapid, precise autofocus. PureCel®Plus‑S stacked-die technology improves low-light performance.

OMNIVISION positions the OV50X for users demanding professional-grade smartphone imaging. Takuritsu Li, OMNIVISION’s marketing manager, emphasized the sensor’s ability to deliver superior capture in challenging lighting conditions.

Sampling is currently underway, with mass production scheduled for Q3 2025. The OV50X is designed for smartphone manufacturers seeking to elevate image and video quality in premium devices.

In other news, Sony is developing 100MP and 200MP smartphone sensors. The 100MP sensor is expected to be widely adopted by Chinese brands using Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (Elite 2) or Dimensity 9500 chips. Sony’s 200MP sensor, reportedly larger than Samsung’s, could also see adoption across Chinese flagships, potentially improving detail and overall image quality.

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Honor is gearing up to launch two new flagship smartphones on March 18, the Honor Magic 6 Ultimate Edition & Magic 6 RSR Porsche Design. Now it has been reported by Xinhua News Agency that the upcoming phones will offer a new camera sensor with a new technology called LOFIC that has been jointly developed by Honor and OmniVision.

Magic 6 series’ LOFIC enables SLR-level ultra-high dynamic range of 15EV

LOFIC stands for Lateral OverFlow Integration Capacitor, which was also talked about earlier by Honor’s mobile phone product manager Li Kun. Notably, LOFIC helps preserve details in the highlights and shadows better, resulting in a “800% improved” dynamic range. Most flagship smartphones these days already have great HDR-capable displays with a very high local peak brightness.

Preserving details on the highlights better will likely complement the whole photography experience. Notably, the new sensor can achieve an SLR-level ultra-high dynamic range of 15EV. The theoretical dynamic range of the sensor is reportedly comparable to the Sony Alpha a7S III.

This camera system also combines AI technology to make the most of its hardware. Enhanced motion sensing capabilities allow you to capture fast moving subjects without the introduction of motion blur. Notably, Honor has also worked on the telephoto lens to improve its light sensing capabilities.

A live shot of the Magic 6 RSR Porsche Design was also revealed yesterday that shows a hexagonal camera module housing three lenses, a flash, and a mention of 100X zoom.

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Honor is gearing up to unveil the Magic 6 Ultimate and the Magic 6 RSR in China soon. But ahead of its release, the camera technology in the Magic 6 Ultimate has been tipped. The upcoming flagship device could be the first to feature OmniVision’s latest camera sensor, so here are all the details.

Honor Magic 6 Ultimate Camera

To recall, the Chinese smartphone maker is set to unveil the Magic 6 RSR and Magic 6 Ultimate in the Chinese market on 18th March 2024. Now, known tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed more details regarding the primary camera on the Magic 6 Ultimate. The Magic 6 series will reportedly be the first to feature a one-inch primary camera sensor from OmniVision.

Earlier today (12th March 2024), Honor shared a fresh teaser regarding the upcoming smartphone’s primary camera, which claimed that the Magic 6 Ultimate with SLR level super dynamic Eagle Eye camera. This camera will offer the world’s first car-level LOFIC technology that promises to offer great pictures in various lighting scenarios. The tipster claimed that the Honor Magic 6 Ultimate could be the first debut with the OmniVision OV50K sensor.

For those unaware, this is a 50-megapixel camera that will offer flagship grade photography thanks to its variable aperture that ranges from f/1.4 to f/2.0. It even has a dynamic range of 15EV. Keep in mind that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt and stay tuned for more updates regarding this smartphone.

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OmniVision, a key player in CMOS image sensors, faced difficulties after losing Apple as a client in 2011. Following its acquisition by Visionox, it shifted its focus to serving Chinese smartphone brands. The OV50H sensor is now adopted by numerous top Chinese manufacturers, strengthening China’s domestic supply chain and positioning OmniVision as a potential rival to industry giants like Sony and Samsung.

Now according to a recent tip from a popular Weibo tipster, Fixed Focus, suggests that there are advanced discussions between Chinese-made CMOS solutions and Samsung. This hints at the possibility of integrating domestic CMOS technology into Samsung’s smartphone supply chain, which would be a significant milestone for Chinese technology.

Earlier, the tipster also disclosed details about OmniVision’s upcoming OV50K sensor, featuring the innovative LOFIC technology. This advancement allows for enhanced performance in high-brightness scenarios by increasing the Full-Well Charge capacity, thus offering a wider dynamic range and effectively tackling overexposure issues.

This development is not limited to Samsung. Honor is also reportedly planning to incorporate OmniVision sensors across its product line. The OV50H sensor will be featured in some Huawei and Honor models, while the more advanced OV50K sensor will be used in higher-end Honor series models.

The tipster also suggests that “super affordable telephoto smartphones” may become less common next year. This is because domestic CMOS manufacturers initially sold their products at cost to gain market share, but in 2024, they are expected to adjust prices to ensure profitability.

Currently, Sony’s IMX989 and LYT900 sensors lead the market. However, OmniVision’s new offerings, coupled with support from major players like Samsung, Huawei, and Honor, could reshape the competitive landscape in the sensor industry.

At the same time, various Chinese entities, including Huawei, are exploring the development of their own CMOS image sensors, fostering an environment conducive to domestic production.

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OmniVision, a company originally founded by Chinese students in Silicon Valley in 1995, initially gained recognition through its groundbreaking CMOS image sensors. Their claim to fame came with the introduction of the world’s first single-chip color CIS sensor in 1997.

Despite an early lead in the market, OmniVision faced challenges post-2011 when they couldn’t meet Apple’s extensive order demands, resulting in Apple switching to Sony sensors starting with the iPhone 4S. However, OmniVision’s acquisition by Visionox marked a transformation into a domestic sensor supplier, aligning with the broader trend among Chinese smartphone brands to strengthen their domestic supply chains.

OmniVision’s OV50H: The New Favorite Among China’s Smartphone Giants

OmniVision made a significant impression at CES 2022 by unveiling a 200-megapixel CMOS sensor, known as OVB0B, which set a record for the world’s smallest pixel size at 0.61μm and featured a large 1/1.28-inch sensor. Now, OmniVision is creating buzz with its OV50H sensor, boasting a 1/1.3-inch size, 50 million pixels, and 1.2μm pixel size, demonstrating its exceptional quality.

This sensor has reportedly exceeded expectations and is drawing interest from several Chinese smartphone manufacturers. This resurgence reflects a broader trend of Chinese smartphone brands strengthening their domestic supply chains, potentially posing a challenge to market leaders like Sony and Samsung.

OmniVision’s comprehensive CIS sensor lineup, including main, telephoto, wide-angle, and front-facing sensors, is expected to be adopted by numerous domestic manufacturers, indicating a possible shift in the market. If we talk about recent upcoming launches then the iQOO 12 and Vivo X100 series are expected to feature OmniVision sensors.

This adoption highlights the ongoing price pressures in the market and underscores the competitive advantage that OmniVision’s technology offers to smartphone manufacturers seeking high-quality and innovative camera sensor technology.

Simultaneously, other Chinese entities, such as Huawei, are also venturing into self-developed CMOS image sensors, creating an environment favorable to domestic production. Meanwhile, there are rumors that Hynix is exiting the sensor industry due to financial struggles.

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Vivo is working on a new smartphone dubbed Vivo X100, and based on the information that’s coming out, it appears that the phone will come with an impressive set of camera sensors.

According to the latest leak from Digital Chat Station, the upcoming Vivo X100 smartphone will come with a 64-megapixel camera sensor with a periscope module.

It is said that there will be a 100mm periscope lens with a f/2.5 aperture tuned for shooting during low-light conditions. It will also have an OmniVision OV64B 64-megapixel 1/2” sensor with 0.7µm native pixels and support for 4-in-1 binning.

The company is reportedly collaborating with Zeiss and will be using Vario-Appo-Sonnar lenses on the smartphone. The primary camera sensor on the device is expected to be a customized sensor for Sony, likely to be a 53-megapixel 1/1.43” sensor.

The Vivo X100 lineup is said to have three phones in the series —X100, X100 Pro, and X100 Pro+. While the X100 and X100 Pro are expected to be available sometime around November this year, the X100 Pro+, the top-end model in the lineup, could be released early next year.

There’s also a possibility that the smartphone lineup could also come with the company’s own Vivo V3 6nm image chip along with a new Zeiss T* coating technology.

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Omnivision has announced the launch of a new 2K 4-megapixel image sensor designed for consumer security and surveillance cameras. The new image sensor, named the OS04D, features a 2.0-micron high-performance backside-illuminated pixel that provides higher sensitivity, ultra-low noise, and better overall image quality. Here are the details…

Omnivision Launches New Image Sensor for Smart Home and Baby Monitoring Devices

The OS04D image sensor, which comes in a cost-effective 1/3-inch optical format, offers 40% power consumption savings compared to its predecessor. Additionally, it provides improvements of over 30% in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and 40% in sensitivity. The PureCel®Plus technology-based BSI pixel in the sensor enables higher sensitivity and ultra-low noise, while select conversion gain (SCG) allows the sensor to flexibly select low and high conversion gain depending on the lighting conditions.

Furthermore, on-chip auto exposure control (AEC) and auto gain control (AGC) accelerate system-on-chip (SoC) booting time, which makes it an efficient and reliable solution for battery-operated devices such as doorbell security cameras. The low power consumption of the sensor is beneficial for such devices.

According to Cheney Zhang, Senior Marketing Manager at Omnivision, “the OS04D image sensor is designed to provide the ideal balance of performance and cost for mainstream IP and HD analog security cameras.” For security camera image sensors, the most critical component is their ability to produce sharp, high-resolution images.

The OS04D image sensor produces extremely clear images and has fast frame rates to capture real-time, fast-moving HD video. Its PureCel Plus pixel architecture achieves high quantum efficiency and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in extremely high sensitivity in low-light conditions.

The OS04D image sensor is pin-to-pin compatible with Omnivision’s OS04L image sensor as well as other new products that the company will launch in the future. It is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering improved performance, low power consumption, and an ideal balance of performance and cost for mainstream IP and HD analog security cameras. Its high sensitivity and low noise make it an excellent solution for low-light conditions, making it a perfect fit for doorbell and baby monitoring devices.

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OmniVision Technologies has just announced a new image sensor. The latest launch is the OV32C 32 megapixel sensor, which is its first RGBC sensor, that is also built specifically for front facing cameras in smartphones.

The OV32C arrives in a compact 1/3.2 inch optical format, which the company states is the “ideal performance/size ratio for next generation front facing mobile phone selfie cameras.” It arrives with built in RGBC technology that lets the sensor offer the best image quality in varying lighting situations. Notably, the OV32C’s low power nodes allows it bring “always on” to the selfie cameras on smartphones. With Always On, the sensor would offer a better user experience by using artificial intelligence (AI) processing to automatically perform various common tasks like face detection, QR code scanning, and much more.

According to Arun Jayaseelan, staff marketing manager at OmniVision, “Mobile phone users need the highest possible image quality and resolution from their cameras, but the design challenge is that there is very limited space for the front facing camera module. Our new OV32C addresses this issue by providing 1/2.8 inch pixel size performance in a compact 1/3.2 inch OF. The OV32C is our first sensor for the mobile phone market to feature RGBC―providing a 50% boost in overall sensitivity to enhance low light image quality. Additionally, we’ve reduced design complexity for OEMs with an on chip RGBC to Bayer fusion algorithm, therefore, a separate RGBC processing unit isn’t required.”

For those unaware, OmniVision is a leading develop of advanced digital imaging technologies that have been featured in many smartphone models. Now, it seeks to further boost its portfolio with an Always On Selfie camera from its first RGBC image sensor. While all of this does seem intriguing on paper, we will have to wait for real world tests to know of its capabilities. The company stated that more information will be shared during the CES 2022 event that is set between the 5th and 8th of January.

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The global smartphone image sensor market bagged a total revenue of $7 billion in the first half of 2021, as per the Strategy Analytics Handset Component Technologies service report titled “Smartphone Image Sensor Market Share Q2 2021: Sony Captures 41 Percent Share”.

The report (via: Business Wire) reveals that the image sensor market managed to record revenue growth of more than 10 percent year-over-year in the first half of 2021.

But it was Sony Semiconductor that managed to rank #1 and took the spot in the smartphone image sensor shipments in H1 2021 with an impressive revenue share of 42 percent. This was followed by Samsung System LSI and OmniVision Technologies.

According to the analysis, the top three vendors accounted for about 80% of revenue in the global smartphone image sensor market in H1 2021.

Jeffrey Mathews, Senior Analyst at Strategy Analytics says, “The image sensor vendors witnessed an accelerated momentum from smartphone OEMs, who actively adopted high-resolution CIS and low-pixel CIS products for multicamera applications, to secure inventory and cater to pent-up demand. Sony, Samsung, and OmniVision supplied key high-resolution CIS products to leading smartphone OEMs in H1 2021.”

Further, the introduction of new high-resolution and large format CIS products from the major vendors are expected to boost the revenue opportunities in the market, as per Stephen Entwistle, Vice President of the Strategic Technologies Practice at Strategy Analytics.

However, he added that the supply fluctuations of various high-pixel and low-pixel CIS products continue to challenge the shipments growth prospects of the smartphone image sensor market in 2021 and beyond.

A previous report revealed that Sony led the CMOS Image Sensor market share in 2020, but Samsung is narrowing the gap. The latter recently launched a 200MP ISOCELL HP1 sensor – a reflection of the company’s design policy of pushing the boundaries of existing technologies. The OEM also recently revealed plans to launch a 576MP camera sensor in four years. Sony has been busy as well though and recently unveiled its CMOS IMX661 image sensor with a 127.68MP pixel count.

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The South Korean electronics giant Samsung Electronics has narrowed the CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) market share gap with Sony by a few points. According to a recent report from Yole Development, Samsung is gaining momentum in the CIS industry.

The Japanese electronics maker Sony ended 2020 with a 40% market share in the CIS market, 2% lower than 2019. Meanwhile, Samsung witnessed an increase of 1% in its market share from 21% in 2019. In 2020, Samsung held a 22% market share in the CIS industry.

The Yole Development report (via Elec) also shows that Samsung had a 13% growth YoY in sales, whereas Sony didn’t witness any loss or gain in CMOS Image Sensors (CIS) sales. Samsung started manufacturing image sensors back in 2002 with a less than 20% market share until 2018.

Omnivision secured the third spot with a 12% market share. To note, Omnivision used to rank above Samsung at the second spot up until 2014. Yole Research suggests that Samsung’s expertise in designing and manufacturing CIS helped expand its reach and significantly grew sales and market share, now becoming the second-largest CMOS maker.

Meanwhile, Sony posted revenue of 1.01 trillion Yen in 2020, a 5% loss from 2019. The research firm indicates that the loss was due to Huawei halting its smartphone business due to US sanctions. However, Sony confirmed a sales increase in CIS for digital cameras in a recent conference call, but CIS sales for smartphones are dropping due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Japanese electronics maker is planning to increase its production volume. In April, the company started operating its new plant in Nagasaki, and now Sony is planning to build an additional plant to manufacture smartphone CMOS Image Sensors. The company is aiming for a 60% market share by 2025. Meanwhile, Samsung is preparing to expand to the automotive sector with the ISOCELL Auto 4AC image sensor.

As per the Yole Development report, the CIS industry posted a collective worth of US$20.7 billion, with smartphones and consumer products accounting for 72% of the total market worth. According to the forecast from the research firm, the CIS market is expected to be worth USD 31.5 billion by the end of 2026.

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OmniVision has just unveiled the new OV50A image sensor, just ahead of Mobile World Congress Shanghai (MWC). This sensor features a 50 megapixel resolution, and is the first image sensor from the company with 100 percent phase detection for superior autofocus that will debut in high end flagship smartphones.

As per an official announcement from the known image sensor maker, the new image sensor features a 1.0 micron pixel size, selective conversion gain and a 1/1.5” optical format with quad phase detection (QPD) autofocus technology and on-chip remosaic. According to Arun Jayaseelan, staff marketing manager at OmniVision, “One of the biggest selling points for mobile phones is camera performance, and they have been steadily closing the gap with DSLR cameras for years. Our QPD autofocus technology now makes that gap even smaller, by bringing DSLR level autofocus performance to smartphone cameras.”

In simpler terms, the new QPD technology enables better distance calculation, faster autofocus, and better low light performance, offering an overall better image quality for the wide and ultrawide primary sensor. These sensors would be found in upcoming premium grade flagship handsets. Previously, the company had also launched the 40 megapixel OV40A sensor, which that offered superior HDR options for both photography and videography.

Now, the new OmniVision sensor arrives with the company’s PureCel Plus-S stacked die technology. Paired with the QPD color filter array and hardware remosaic, the sensor can output significantly improved autofocus performance along with high quality 50 megapixel Bayer output or 8K videos in real time. The sensor can capture 50 megapxiel 8K videos with QPD autofocus at 30 fps, 12.5 megapixel 8K videos at 60fps, and 4K/2K videos at 90 fps.

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OmniVision has just announced a new smartphone camera sensor. The new sensor is subbed the OV40A, which is a 40 megapixel image sensor, that is developed to be paired with next generation smartphones.

In a recent announcement, the company unveiled the new 1/1.7” sensor which is built with OmniVision PureCel Plus S stacked die technology. It features a 1.0 micron pixels and offers ‘super high gain and de noise technologies for the best in class low light camera performance.’ In other words, the company has just launched one of its best image sensors that promise to offer improved low light performance among other things.

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As per the official notes, the OV40A also offers multiple high dynamic range (HDR) options for both videography and photography. It also arrives with slow motion video capture at up to 240 fps (frames per second), along with PDAF (phase detection autofocus). Similar to the 32 megapixel sensor the company released earlier this week, the OV40A also uses a 4 cell color filter array and hardware remosaic. Furthermore, it is also capable of capturing 40 megapixel stills at 30 fps.

Through pixel binning, the image sensor can also achieve 10 megapixel shots at 120 fps as well, to improve its low light performance. For videos, the sensor supports 60 fps video captures in 4K and 1080p videos up to 240 fps, all of which alongside PDAF. For those unaware, OmniVision sensors have been used in low to mid range handsets due to their more affordable costs in comparison to Sony sensors, but we might see this sensor in some upper mid range or affordable flagship model as well.

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When you talk of image sensor manufacturers, Omnivision is a name that would pop up alongside Samsung and Sony. The company has just launched the Omnivision OV64A, an expected update in 64MP modules.

Apparently, phone makers are focusing at utilising bigger sensors as a report recently predicted that shipments of image sensors of 50MP or more will hit 322 million units by 2021. Omnivision plans to get its bit of that pie with the OV64A, another CMOS sensor with 1 micron pixels. This is coming not too long after the OV64B which is the world’s first sensor with 0.7 micron was unveiled. Its creator affirms that this will enhance capacities, for example, low-light shooting in the more up to date sensor contrasted with past 64MP offerings.

The new module is made with Omnivision’s most recent PureCelPlus-S stacked kick the bucket innovation, and furthermore has an on-chip, 4-cell (4C) shading channel cluster. This may make for understood, constant 64MP Bayer yield and 8K video. These new specs likewise take into account 4C half-shield stage recognition, appraised for quick self-adjust (AF).

The OV64A has a 1/1.34-inch optical arrangement, though the OV64B is 1/2-inch and existing models, for example, the Sony IMX686 and Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 are 1/1.72-inch. The new Omnivision part is additionally appraised for pixel-binning for 16MP pictures with 4C binning at 60 fps; 8K video at 30 fps; 4K/2K video at 120 fps; 1080p at 240 fps and 720p at 480 fps.

On the other hand, similarly as with its archetype, optical image stabilisation (OIS) never figures in its specs. Omnivision has expressed that OV64A test units are now in the possession of cell phone OEMs, and that it will go into large scale manufacturing by the last quarter of 2020.

The sensor is not listed to feature Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). Omnivision has stated that OV64A samples are already in the hands of mobile device OEMs and that it will go into mass production by the last quarter of 2020.

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These days, smartphones are evaluated based on their photography and videography prowess. Almost all handsets released this year come with at least two rear cameras. The latest report by Strategy Analytics on Smartphone Image Sensor Market Revenue Share H1 2020 reveals how well the manufacturer of these sensors performed.

According to Strategy Analytics, Sony lead the market with a 44% revenue share in the first half of 2020. However, the report does say that the Japanese tech giant’s share dropped due to the rising competition from Samsung LSI, OmniVision, and SK Hynix.

Talking about Samsung LSI, it secured the second position with a 32% revenue share, thanks to its 64MP and 108MP high megapixel sensors. Whereas, the third place was acquired by OmniVision with a 9% share, followed by others with a 15% revenue share.

Further, the report also says that the image sensor market growth was affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic as the overall smartphone market declined. However, it began to recover as a result of the multi-camera craze, which mostly included 8MP and 2MP sensors.

Last but not least, Strategy Analytics predicts better performance in the second half of 2020 than the first half.

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(Via)

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OmniVision has announced OV64B 1/2″ camera sensor which the company claims is the world’s first 0.7-micron 64-megapixel image sensor which can be used in high-end ultra-thin smartphones.

In comparison, Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 64MP camera sensor is larger as it uses a 0.8-micrometer pixels on a 1/1.7-inch sensor. On the other hand, the Samsung ISOCELL Bright 48MP sensor uses 0.8-micrometer pixels on a 1/2-inch sensor.

Comparing the new sensor with Sony, the Sony IMX686 is a 64MP image sensor with a large sensor size of 1/1.7” and a pixel size of 0.8μm. The Sony IMX586 48MP camera sensor offers a pixel size of 0.8 μm onto a 1/2-type unit.

The OmniVision OV64B is built on the company’s PureCel Plus-S stacked die technology and a four-cell color filter array (CFA) with on-chip hardware for re-mosaic. Along with the 64MP resolution images, the sensor can also output 16MP images with 4x sensitivity because of the near-pixel binning which is equivalent to sensors with 1.4-micron pixels, says OmniVision. This should result in better low-light photography.

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As for the video, the sensor supports 4K video recordings with electronic image stabilisation (EIS), as well as 8K video at 30 frames per second (fps). It also has support for slow-mo capture at up to 240 fps at 1080p and 480 fps at 720p.

The OmniVision OV64B sensor feature type-2, 2×2 microlens phase detection autofocus (ML-PDAF) to boost autofocus accuracy. It also provides a CPHY interface for greater throughput using fewer pins.

As of the availability, OmniVision says the first sample units should ship out to prospective clients in May 2020. However, it remains to be seen which smartphone company adopts this sensor for their devices.

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OmniVision, a known brand that manufactures image sensors for smartphone cameras, has just unveiled its latest sensor that rivals South Korean giant, Samsung. At CES 2020, the company showcased the OV48C, which is a unique 48 megapixel camera sensor.

The OV48C from OmniVision technically has the same size as Samsung’s 108 megapixel sensor; however, it differs by keeping the resolution at 48 megapixel. This is done to accommodate its larger 1.2um pixels against Samsung’s 0.8um pixels.

Furthermore, the OmniVision sensor has a 4 cell color filter (Quad Bayer) that outputs full resolution images at either 48 megapixels or use pixel binning for 12 megapixel images. The latter effectively makes the pixel size twice as large, about 2.4um pixels.

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In terms of videography, the OV48C image sensor can output 8K videos without binning and 4K videos at 60fps (Frame per Second). It also supports slow motion videos at 240fps on 1080p resolution or 360fps on 720p resolution. Notably, the new OmniVision sensor features PureCel Pus technology as well, or in other words, an OmniVision version of Samsung’s ISOCELL technology.

The OV48C is also capable of staggered HDR (i.e, multi-shot high dynamic range) and thanks to its on-chip dual conversion, it can further reduce noise in captured shots. Earlier today, the samples shots from the sensor were made available and it begs the question of when will we see the sensor on a smartphone? And, which smartphone manufacturer is going to adopt it first?

For more coverage on CES 2020 events and launches, click here.

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(Via)

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Xiaomi Mi 5X was announced back in July to cater the needs of a cheaper dual camera smartphone in the market. The idea behind the smartphone was simple, use a similar dual camera setup as the Xiaomi Mi 6 flagship and put it inside a mid-ranger, with decent specs. So, the Mi 5X (full specs here) isn’t as powerful as the Mi 6, but its camera is still quite capable, thanks to the sensors inside. The cheaper price also makes it available to a much wider crowd with a limited budget.

On first glance, the dual camera setups on both the phones seem identical. But the setup is much more different than what you may realize, as the sensors inside the Mi 5X are not from Sony or Samsung, instead they are from OmniVision (OV). The basic specs remain the same, like one 12MP sensor with 1.25µm pixel size and another one with 12MP 1.0µm pixel size. But the sensor manufacturer, as well as the apertures, are different than what’s used inside the Mi 6.

The table below should give you a good idea about the setups used by both the devices.

	Xiaomi Mi 5X		Xiaomi Mi 6
TYPE	Wide Angle	Telephoto	Wide Angle	Telephoto
SENSOR	OV12A10	OV13880	IMX386	S5K3M3
RESOLUTION	12MP	12MP	12MP	12MP
SENSOR SIZE	1/2.8"	?	1/2.9"	1/2.9"
PIXEL SIZE	1.25um	1um	1.25um	1um
APERTURE	f/2.2	f/2.6	f/1.8	f/2.6
OTHER FEATURES	2X Optical Zoom Dual LED Flash		2X Optical Zoom Dual LED Flash 4-axis OIS

The Mi 5X’s primary OV12A10 comes with a slightly larger 1/2.8″ sensor as compared to IMX386 (1/2.9″). The aperture on the Mi 6 is bigger though, f/1.8 vs f/2.2.

When it comes to the real life performance of both the handsets, it’s quite similar. But there are a few differences seen in these samples as well. For example, on most occasions, the Xiaomi Mi 6 had much sharper images. It was even more evident when you zoom into the pictures. But interestingly, the Mi 5X managed to take brighter images.

In terms of color saturation, the Mi 5X seems to be better. However, sometimes, the pictures look over saturated, different from what it looks in real life. So, if you are someone who likes images which are closer to reality, the Mi 6 is a better option.

Portrait mode is better on the Mi 6 as the object tracking on the Mi 5X is not as good as its elder sibling. The colors on the portraits are much more natural, unlike the Mi 5X which captures somewhat whitish images (kind of what we see in beauty mode).

Low light images are much sharper with the Mi 6. The f/1.8 aperture lets in more light and therefore we get more details as well. However, once again, the Mi 5X tends to take brighter images, although they are not as sharp as the Mi 6.

To conclude, the Xiaomi Mi 6 does well in this comparison but so does the Mi 5X. Despite being almost $150 cheaper, the Mi 5X manages to keep up with Xiaomi Mi 6’s camera on most occasions. It won’t be as sharp as the flagship model, but it’s capable of capturing high-quality images, making it one of the top camera phones in its price segment.

Check out the Xiaomi Mi 5X vs Xiaomi Mi 6 camera images down below and let me know which phone do you think takes better images. I have added zoomed in images of the samples whenever possible.

You can download the above images in full resolution from here.

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Qualcomm has made an official announcement on collaborating with three companies to fulfill its mobile VR goals. The three companies with which Qualcomm has entered a partnership are Bosch Sensortec, OmniVision and Ximmerse.

Bosch Sensortec’s BMX055 orientation sensor will be used in Head Mounted Display (HMD) Accelerator Program by Qualcomm. It includes various kinds of sensors such as accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer.

The U.S. based chip maker will be using OmniVision’s 1-megapixel OV9282 image sensor enabled with high-speed shutter in HMD Accelerator Program (HAP). It will be also equipped with Ximmerse’s controllers that are optimized for using with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets for mobile devices. Also, the Flip controllers from Ximmerse will deliver lower latency and drift-free tracking with accurate precision.

Read More: OmniVision’s New 16-Megapixel Sensor Supporting PDAF, zHDR Officially Launched

HMD Accelerator Program was announced by Qualcomm in February this year. It was devised to assisted for OEMs of virtual reality hardware. HAP can help in reducing the engineering costs and cut down on the manufacturing time for creating VR products. It also reduces the shipping time of new products. HMD Accelerator Program provides VR manufacturers with means to authenticate performance metrics.

The program providers VR OEMs with reference products, tools and other resources that can help them to release VR hardware in short time. The Virtual Reality Development Kit and VR reference headset that are based on Snapdragon 835 are some items that are provided as resources to OEMs.

OEMs can either manufacture their own HMDs through the provided reference items or they can work with an experienced ODM such as Goertek or Thundercomm to personalize SD 835 VR HMD according to their commercial requirements. In China, many Snapdragon 820 VR HMD reference design based standalone VR HMDs are already available. More HAP based VR headsets are expected to launch in the near future.

During the Google I/O 2017 event that was held in May, Google and Qualcomm had come together to announce a new standalone VR headset driven by Snapdragon 835 that is poised to release by the end of 2017. It is based on the reference design from Qualcomm. HTC and Lenovo are also expected to announce standalone headsets enabled with Daydream VR. Again, these VR headsets are going to be based on Qualcomm’s reference design and will be powered with Snapdragon chipset. Standalone VR headsets will not require to use smartphones, PC or any cable connected device for virtual reality experience.

(source)

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OmniVision is a well-known developer of topnotch imaging solutions. Today, the company has announced its newest image sensor, the OmniVision OV16B10 camera sensor. It is a high-performance and a high-resolution camera lens that is built for upcoming flagship smartphones.

The new OV16B10 camera sensor is built on the company’s PureCel Plus-S pixel architecture. It offers a pixel size of 1.12micron. Equipped with phase detection autofocus (PDAF) and high-sensitivity imaging, the OV16B10 camera sensor can be used on both single and dual-camera setups.

The 16-megapixel OV16B10 is an ideal image sensor for flagship phones that will be coming out as successor phones that feature 13-megapixel camera sensors as it comes with impressive features like PDAF and zigzag high dynamic range (zHDR). Its inbuilt feature syncs the frames and carries support for context switching when it is used in dual camera modules. It is also features a gyro interface that can synchronize motion data from the external gyroscope. This allows the OV16B10 to deliver accurate stabilization while capturing photos and videos.

Compared to the traditional contrast-detection autofocus, PDAF is not only more precise but also it performs fast. The OV16B10 is equipped with an improved PDAF architecture. When compared to predecessor PDAF tech, the newer PDAF available on OV16B10 offers improved sensitivity which allows it to autofocus accurately in dim-light conditions.

Read More: Google VR180 Cameras Capturing 180° VR Videos Launching soon with Yi, Lenovo & LG as Partners

The zigzag-HDR increases the dynamic range of the sensor by utilizing a long and short exposure within a single frame. In comparison to frame-based HDR offered by other camera sensors, the inclusion of zHDR in OV16B10 has increased dynamic range with less ghosting artifacts. This allows the camera sensor to shoot live preview and capture videos in HDR model. Moreover, single-shot and full resolution HDR images can be captured without shutter lag.

Here is the list of multiple resolutions supported by OV16B10:

• 16-megapixel image and video at 30fps with ZHDR.
• 4K (Ultra HD) and 2K (Quad HD) videos at 60 fps.
• 1080p (Full HD) videos at 120 fps.
• 720p (HD) videos at 120 fps.

The OV16B10 camera sensor is currently available for testing. The company will be starting its mass production by the last quarter of 2017.

(source)

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The Xiaomi Mi 5C is expected to be the first Xiaomi phone released with the Pinecone V670 processor. Rumored to be released in March, a new image of the phone has been leaked online showing it sporting a new design.

When the first set of images of the Mi 5C were leaked online back when it was still called Xiaomi Meri, the device featured a physical home button. However, this new image leaked on Weibo by @strong machine and said to have originated from a Foxconn factory lacks the physical home button. Another difference is the position of the front camera which has been moved from the right to the left.

This new device is better looking and the front bezels are thinner but since there is no picture of the rear we can’t confirm the position of the fingerprint scanner. The front also lacks the groove of the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner in the Mi 5S. So we can’t say if there is one embedded underneath the display.

READ MORE: Xiaomi Mi 6 won’t Use Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor, Stock Details Leak

We might have to wait until more leaks surface or until the phone is eventually released in March. The Xiaomi Mi 5C is rumored to have a 5.5-inch display, 3GB RAM, 64GB of built-in storage and a 12MP Omnivision 12870 rear camera. The front camera is an 8MP shooter and there is a 4500mAh battery in it. Since MIUI 9 is not out yet, it should ship with MIUI 8 based on Android 6.0. Price is said to be about ¥1499 (~$218).

(Source)

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News of Xiaomi’s launch event held yesterday has been flooding the internet and the device getting the most coverage is not even the Xiaomi Mi Note 2 but the Mi MIX ”concept” phone.

The Mi MIX is popular not because of its design; Sharp is sort of the pioneer in that aspect. But because it was unexpected. Totally unexpected. Nobody had heard of it not until yesterday. It’s production process must have been really top secret and I won’t be surprised if all those who worked on the project were asked to take an oath of secrecy. And now that it has been unveiled, the internet is gushing over it.

Fitted with a 6.4” display that feels like you are holding a 5.5” device in your hand due to the non-existent bezels on three of its sides, a snapdragon 821 processor, 6GB of RAM, either 128GB or 256GB of storage and an affordable price that starts at $516, what’s there not to love about the phone?

During the launch, quite a number of important details were skipped such as the supplier for the display and the cameras. Those details have however been revealed now. The 6.4” display is made by……Sharp. Yes, it is a Sharp display which means, Xiaomi not only got inspired by the Sharp Aquos Crystal but also got them to provide the display, although the Mi MIX looks better than the Aquos Crystal.

READ MORE: Meizu Pro 6S Will Officially Launch on November 3

And for the cameras, Xiaomi has turned to OmniVision to supply the sensors. The front camera is a 5MP ov5675 sensor with a 1.12 μm pixel size. The primary shooter is a 16-Megapixel 1-Micron OV16880  sensor with a sensor size of 1/3.06 inches. The sensor is built on OmniVision’s PureCel Plus-S stacked die technology.

The post Xiaomi Mi MIX Screen and Camera Details Revealed appeared first on Gizmochina.

Yesterday, OnePlus officially announced its OnePlus 2 flagship in the market. A few hours later, we manged to get hold of a few camera samples from the device. And to be honest, they looked extremely good for a affordable flagship. That’s when we decided to dig a little deeper into the camera specs of the device.

I am sure many of you would know that the OnePlus One came with the Sony IMX214 sensor last year. However, this year, for some reason, OnePlus decided to resort to a non-Sony sensor (apparently a lot of Chinese smartphones now use non-Sony sensors). To be specific, the rear camera sensor on the OnePlus 2 is the OV13860 13MP sensor. While the front 5MP sensor is the OV5648.

Now, let’s take a look at the OV13860. Its a 13MP sensor with 1.3 micron pixels, which makes it 35 percent larger than traditional 13MP camera sensors. The sensor is also larger than competitors at 1/2.6 inches which directly results into better low light photography. This is because, the large sensor provides higher sensitivity and reduces noise resulting into better pictures in low lighting conditions. Its also the first sensor from OV’s PureCel family of BSI image sensors which utilizes the company’s stacked die technology. This essentially enables smaller module sizes for larger optical format sensors.

OnePlus has utilized 6 lenses on the camera unit to avoid distortion. Now combine this large 13MP sensor with Laser Focus, and you get a powerful camera at the back. The Laser Focus reduces focus times to a great extent. You can literally focus on an object within just 0.2-0.3 seconds. Further, the presence of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) should limit camera shake to a minimum level.

The OV13860 sensor supports 4K videos at 30 frames per second (fps) and even slo-mo recording (720p @120fps). So, overall its a much better upgrade than the Sony IMX214 sensor used by the OnePlus One. That’s why the pictures from the OnePlus 2 are going to be much better and less noisy as compared to the previous generation. You will also see considerable improvement in night time photography.

Also, in case you are interested, the front camera on the OnePlus uses the OV5648 sensor. While this isn’t the best front facing camera that we have seen in a smartphone (hello HTC Desire Eye), its decent enough to satisfy your selfie needs. The 5MP sensor comes with 1.4 micron pixels. The sensor isn’t that big, and measures 1/4 inches. But like I said, it should be able to take decent pictures. The sensor can capture 720p videos at 60fps and 1080p videos at 30fps.

Many of our readers had mentioned yesterday that one of the reasons for upgrading to the new OnePlus 2 would be its camera. And it looks like OnePlus did a fine job of getting a pretty good shooter at the back. Of course, we would like to test out the camera ourselves (hopefully soon) to make our own conclusions about the OV13860 sensor at the back.

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