OmniVision Unveils New Image Sensor

OmniVision has announced the OV32B image sensor, featuring a 0.7 micron pixel size to provide 32 megapixel (MP) resolution in a 1/3” optical format. This enables smartphone designers to reportedly, offer the highest possible front-facing, selfie camera resolution in the limited space available. The OV32B also supports 2- and 3-exposure HDR timing for up to 8MP video modes and still previews. Additionally, it integrates a 4-cell colour filter array and on-chip hardware remosaic, which provides high quality, 32MP Bayer output in real time.

The OV32B is built on OmniVision’s PureCel Plus stacked die technology, providing still image captures and 1080p video recordings at 180 frames per second (fps). In low light conditions, this sensor can use near-pixel binning to output an 8MP image with 4X the sensitivity, offering 1.4 micron pixel equivalent performance for previews and still captures. In addition to front-facing selfie cameras, these features are also ideal for rear-facing telephoto smartphone cameras.

To boost autofocus accuracy, especially in low light, this sensor offers the option to integrate type-2, 2x2 microlens phase detection autofocus (ML-PDAF). It also provides a CPHY interface for greater throughput using fewer pins, as well as a DPHY interface.

Output formats include 32MP at 15 fps, 8MP at 60 fps and 6MP (16:9) at 90 fps—all with 4-cell binning. Additionally, the sensor can output 1080p video at 120 fps, 1.5MP captures (16:9) at 240 fps and 720p video at 360 fps.