14 DAY TRIAL // OmniVision, the well-known developer of imaging solutions, has just announced the release of its first 5-megapixel image sensor to use OmniVision’s proprietary OmniBSI-2 pixel architecture
Known as the main supplier of camera sensors for Apple's iPhone 4 units, OmniVision has previously launched a 10-megapixel sensor and more recently a 12-megapixel one.
However, the latest OV5690 sensor has a new 1.4-micron backside illumination pixel that allows for a full five megapixels in a 1/4-inch optical format.
In addition, the height of the module is reduced by 20% without sacrificing the image quality, which recommends it as an interesting solution for thinner mobile handsets, smartphones and tablets.
“With industry sources placing 5-megapixel CMOS image sensors at more than 15 percent of the overall sensor market today, we view 5-megapixel sensors as occupying as a sweet spot in the market,” said Per Rosdahl, product marketing manager at OmniVision.
According to OmniVision, the new camera sensor is based on the company's second-generation OmniBSI-2 technology, which provides advanced features including 1080p high-definition (HD) video recording at 30 frames per second, an integrated scaler, and 2 x 2 binning functionality with re-sampling filter.
“Some industry analysts believe that market share may exceed 30% by 2014 driven by the demand for higher performance resolution and increasingly slim mobile handsets, smart phone and tablet designs. With the OV5690 CameraChip, OmniVision brings a highly competitive, no-compromise solution to market, combining best-in-class performance while enabling extremely thin building height,” concluded Rosdahl.
Although, rumors suggest that Apple might sign a new agreement with Sony, who will be the sole supplier of 8-megapixel camera modules for the company's next iPhone smartphone, OmniVision's new camera chip remains attractive for manufacturers that want to deliver slim devices without compromising the image quality.
OmniVision announced that the mass production of the OV5690 module is expected to begin in Q2 2011.