OmniVision debuts 16 megapixel smartphone camera sensors

Built on the 1.34 micron OmniBSI-2 pixel architecture, the 1/2.3in OV16820 and OV16825 can shoot 4K2K (3840 x 2160) video at 60fp/s as well as full resolution (4608 x 3456) video at 30fp/s. The sensors also enable full resolution 16 megapixel burst photography. "It was an industry wide assumption that smartphones would cut into digital still and video camera (DSC/DVC) sales; but at higher resolutions, we're seeing a very distinct divide between the two markets and both remain strong," said Devang Patel, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. "Industry experts have observed that mainstream DSC products are shifting to 16 megapixel resolutions and are offering improved image quality and optics," Patel continued. "The OV16820 supports such offerings, allowing DSC/DVC manufacturers to provide consumers a high resolution, feature rich point and shoot photography experience, while the OV16825 provides top tier imaging and video recording capabilities for flagship smartphones." The company claims the sensors feature industry standard connectivity, including up to eight lane MIPI and lvds output interfaces for high data transfer rates. Volume production is expected by the fourth quarter of 2012.