Smartphones embrace Micro Four Thirds sensors
Prepare for a paradigm shift in the world of smartphones as the next image revolution looms, with credible reports suggesting the integration of large Micro Four Thirds sensors. This marks a potential revolution not only in the smartphone sector but across the entire camera market.
Multiple sources now indicate the imminent arrival of a new generation of Micro Four Thirds sensors, ranging from 44 to 100 megapixels, set to be implemented in smartphones. Weibo, among the sources, details the sensors per smartphone as follows:
4/3-inch 108Mp 1.4Ɋm Nonacell Fullpixel DPAF (new ISOCELL, optimized quantum efficiency)
4/3-inch 80Mp 1.65Ɋm QuadBayer Full-pixel 2×2 OCL AF (IMX472 changes Mipi interface to reduce digital layer power consumption)
4/3 inch 50Mp 2.1Ɋm 4-Cell Full-pixel 2×2 OCL AF WDR (LOFIC TheiaCel)
4/3-inch 44Mp 2.25Ɋm Mask-PD AF VDGS (Pregius S II)
The challenges are apparent, with the need to implement such a ‘giant’ sensor in a smartphone body being the primary obstacle. Additionally, managing the heat generated by the extensive processor presents another hurdle. However, overcoming these challenges is a matter of time and technological advancement. The term ‘Four-Thirds’ originates from the size and format of the image sensor developed by Olympus in collaboration with Panasonic. In contrast to the 35-millimeter film and APS-C-sized sensors used by other major camera brands, the Four-Thirds system employs a 4:3 ratio for its image sensor. The Micro Four Thirds sensor’s diagonal length is approximately half that of a 35-millimeter film negative, resulting in a crop factor of exactly 2. While the Micro Four Thirds format has seen reduced use due to a preference for shooting large formats, its potential to revolutionize videography in mobile phones is significant.
The journey towards larger sensors commenced in 2021 when Sharp introduced the AQUOS R6, equipped with a 1-inch sensor. Subsequent developments from various manufacturers, including Canon and Nikon, showcased powerful smartphones with 1-inch image sensors. However, Apple seems focused on refining image technology rather than adopting larger sensors, leaving the door open for future innovations.
Anticipating the first Micro Four Thirds smartphone to emerge from China, possibly by 2024-2025, sets the stage for a potential revolution in videography. The prospect of an iPhone 18 equipped with a Micro Four Thirds image sensor could reshape the landscape of smartphone imaging in the coming years.