Sony is one of the top names in the imaging sensor segment. If you own a flagship phone, there’s a good chance it’ll come with one (or more) Sony cameras. However, the company also offers image sensors for other purposes, such as motion detection and environment analysis. Sony has released a 4K CMOS sensor capable of capturing RAW images and that excels at HDR.
The sensor, called the Sony ISX038, is specifically designed for the automotive sector. While its size and capabilities would allow manufacturers of mobile devices to use it as well, its price eliminates this possibility. However, it might find a niche among high-end action cameras.
The Sony ISX038 4K sensor can capture RAW and HDR images beyond the human eye
For starters, the Sony ISX038 has a 1/1.7″ size, which is considerably smaller than sensors seen in modern flagship phones that approach or reach 1″. However, it makes up for its small size by reducing its effective resolution to around 8.39 MP. Mobile device makers could leverage such specs in ultra-wide solutions, also benefiting from its HDR capabilities.
Being a sensor designed for the automotive field, it boasts some unique features. Sony claims that the ISX038 is capable of “simultaneously process and output RAW and YUV images.” This is especially useful for environment recognition, which is essential in autonomous or assisted driving systems in modern EVs. The company claims that this approach allows for the implementation of simplified environment recognition systems based on a single sensor. Simultaneous processing of RAW and YUV images would also boost AR-based experiences.
Another feature that makes the sensor unique is its ability to capture up to 21.6 stops of HDR. Typically, HDR content tops out at 17.6 stops, which triples the 6 stops of SDR content. Basically, the Sony ISX038 sensor exceeds the HDR capabilities of the human eye, which is quite impressive for such a small form factor. This feature would also be valuable for mobile camera solutions where high-dynamic-range scenes remain the most challenging, along with night scenes.
Too expensive for smartphones; high-end action cameras could implement it
In terms of pricing, this is the point at which the possibility of implementing the sensor in smartphones disappears. We are talking about a price of $600, close to flagship killer mobile devices. However, outside of the automotive field, perhaps some high-end action camera manufacturers can resort to its technology. After all, being able to record in 4K and with HDR levels that go beyond the human eye can be features that attract those looking for the best image quality during their adventures.
2024-10-16 15:09:24