Sony has introduced a new image sensor designed for mobile devices. The IMX586 is a sensor that can go up to 48 Megapixels and should be destined for next-gen flagship smartphones.
The sensor itself will have two technologies that should put it above its predecessors. It will have a high-resolution pixel count, and feature ‘quad Bayer’ colour filter for better image processing. The high resolution comes courtesy of its larger physical size. The previous IMX486 features a 1/2.9″ sensor size; the IMX586 now measures at 1/2″. Coupled with more pixels per inch, this equals better light gathering for sharper images in good light.
The quad Bayer pixel also helps in both image processing and pixel-binning. The 4×4 colour filter arrangements allow the phone to process images in different ways depending on the situation. The same arrangement will also combine data from the grid in low-light situations for a pixel equivalent of 1.6microns.
Sony did not share who is the first customer for the new sensor. But we should be seeing one or two models featuring this new sensor pretty soon.
