The smartphone imaging sensor offers 50MP clarity, HDR, and enhanced low-light performance in a compact design.
OMNIVISION, a developer of semiconductor technologies, including digital imaging, analog, and touch & display technology, announced the launch of OV50M40 image sensor. This sensor incorporates capabilities for various smartphone camera setups such as front, main, ultra-wide, and telephoto, offering a 0.61-micron pixel CMOS sensor with 50-megapixel output. It includes features like single exposure dual analog gain (DAG) for video HDR and an always-on low power mode.
The sensor supports HDR capabilities through staggered and DAG HDR technologies, enhancing both video and still image quality. Its built-in DAG allows for single-exposure HDR, minimizing motion artifacts in variable lighting. The sensor performs well in low-light conditions with its 4-cell binning technique, noise reduction, and high-gain mode, capable of achieving up to 64x analog gain for enhanced images in low light.
Additionally, the sensor features phase detection autofocus (PDAF) in both binning and full-resolution modes, and hardware re-mosaic for optimal telephoto camera performance. Its always-on function enables motion detection and low power usage. The sensor ensures quality images whether used in rear or front-facing cameras, supporting up to 3x crop-zoom for telephoto lenses with quick mode switching.
Constructed using OMNIVISION’s PureCelPlus-S stacked-die technology, the sensor achieves resolution in a compact form factor with small 0.61µm pixels. It provides a 12.5MP preview and captures still images with 4-cell binning for increased sensitivity. The sensor supports various modes, including 50MP stills at 12 fps, 12.5MP images at 60 fps, and high-frame-rate video capture. This 1/2.88-inch sensor also supports the CPHY/DPHY MIPI interface and dual DOVDD voltage levels.
“There is increasing demand for small form factor 50MP resolution image sensors in smartphone applications, including front, main, ultra-wide and telephoto cameras,” said James Liu, senior product marketing manager, OMNIVISION. “Our new OV50M40 image sensor can provide mobile phone OEMs with a single camera solution with the performance and features that can satisfy multiple applications, simplifying the supply chain and reducing cost.”