Sony, one of the largest suppliers of image sensors for smartphones, has just announced the upcoming availability of its new IMX586 stacked CMOS image sensor for handset cameras. According to Sony, this is the world's smallest pixel size of 0.8 μm, which is why it's possible to pack 48 effective megapixels onto a 1/2-type unit.
In terms of performance, Sony's IMX586 image sensor rivals that of the high-performance SLR cameras and allows users to capture state-of-the-art, high-res pictures with a smartphone. Sony included its exposure control technology and signal processing functionality directly into the image sensor, which enables real-time output a much better dynamic range four times greater than conventional units.
Also, IMX586 uses the Quad Bayer color filter array, where adjacent 2x2 pixels come in the same color allowing for a higher sensitivity shooting. On top of that, during low light capturing, the signal from the four adjacent pixels are added, further increasing the sensitivity to a level equivalent to that of 12 megapixels, which results in bright, low noise images.
The new CMOS image sensor will start shipping in September, but it's yet unclear when we will see the first smartphones packing Sony's IMX586 sensor.
Cosmin, a tech journalist with a career spanning over a decade, brings a wealth of experience to PhoneArena. His expertise lies in brands like Samsung and Nokia, and he has a keen interest in innovative technologies. After a brief stint in PR, Cosmin returned to tech journalism in 2016, committed to delivering clear and objective news. When he's not writing or appearing as a guest on TV and radio shows, Cosmin enjoys playing RPGs, watching Netflix, and nurturing his passion for history and travel.
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