12MP image sensors target dual-camera smartphones

Article By : OmniVision Technologies

The OV12A10 has PDAF support, capturing 12MP resolution at 30fps, 4K2K video at 30fps or 1,080p resolution at 90fps.

Hoping to democratise high-end imaging, OmniVision Technologies has launched its large-pixel image sensors built on PureCel Plus technology. The 1.25μm, 12MP image sensor family is designed to meet the performance demands of dual camera technologies, which OmniVision sees as a booming trend in both high-end and mainstream mobile markets.

The OV12A10 and OV12A1B offer advanced DSLR features such as optical zoom, HDR and hand jitter reduction with excellent low-light performance and power efficiency, according to the company.

According to Yole Développement’s recent report on CMOS image sensor technology, dual cameras are estimated to achieve a penetration rate of up to 20% in the mobile market by 2020. As noted in a similar report by MarketsandMarkets, a current key trend is that consumers prefer to carry a dual-camera smartphone rather than a dedicated camera in addition to a smartphone. This trend is expected to increase demand for high-performance image quality and advanced features in mobile dual cameras at mainstream prices.

With built on OmniVision’s PureCel Plus technology, it can implement buried color filter array (BCFA) and deep trench isolation (DTI) for reduced color crosstalk, as well as improved SNR and sensor angular response. The OV12A10 also comes with phase detection autofocus (PDAF) support, capturing 12mp resolution at 30fps, 4K2K video at 30fps or 1,080p resolution at 90fps.

OV12A10 and OV12A1B (monochrome sensor) are currently available for sampling and are expected to enter volume production in the first quarter of 2017.