Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, has announced its latest 12 megapixel (mp) image sensor for smartphones, which will elevate the quality of mobile phone pictures.

The 1.4μm-pixel-based image sensor, already in mass production, is equipped with dual pixel technology that has been reserved for digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) cameras, said a statement from the company.

The technology enables rapid auto-focus for fast photo shooting while producing premium image quality on mobile devices, even in low light situations, it added.

The new image sensor employs two photodiodes located on the left and right halves of a pixel, while a conventional image sensor dedicates less than 5 per cent of its pixels, with one photodiode each that converts light particles into measurable photocurrent for phase detection, it said.

As each and every pixel of the dual pixel image sensor is capable of detecting phase differences of perceived light, significantly faster auto-focus has become possible. With such ground-breaking improvements, the image sensor ensures clear and sharp images especially for moving objects even in poor lighting conditions, said the statement.

The image sensor has also adopted Samsung’s Isocell technology, which isolates the photodiodes in each pixel with a physical wall to further reduce colour cross talk, maximising the image sensor’s performance, it added.

For top-of-the-line performance while keeping the size to a minimum, the new image sensor is built with cutting-edge chip-stacking technology. The dual pixel image sensor stacks a 65 nanometer (nm) sensor and 28nm logic chip together to deliver outstanding photo-taking experiences in today’s sleek smartphones.

Ben K Hur, vice president of marketing, system LSI Business at Samsung Electronics, said: “With 12 million pixels working as a phase detection auto-focus (PDAF) agent, the new image sensor brings professional auto-focusing performance to a mobile device.”

“Consumers will be able to capture their daily events and precious moments instantly on a smartphone as the moments unfold, regardless of lighting conditions,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service