Samsung Electronics has unveiled three new mobile image sensors to improve smartphone camera performance: ISOCELL HP9, ISOCELL GNJ, and ISOCELL JN5.
In a press release, the South Korean phone manufacturer focused on better sensor performance and a consistent camera experience across all smartphone lenses.
Focus on Resolution, Low-Light, and Consistency
The new sensors, which target both primary and sub-cameras, boast advancements in three key areas: resolution, low-light performance, and consistency across various lenses.
The ISOCELL HP9 features a high megapixel count, with 200 million pixels, specifically designed for camera efficiency in low-light conditions. Samsung claims this sensor design improves light gathering and focus, “addressing a common challenge for traditional telephoto cameras.”
The ISOCELL GNJ focuses on overall performance enhancement. This 50-megapixel sensor utilizes a dual-pixel design for improved autofocus. It also combines this technology with in-sensor zoom for capturing clearer video footage and photos free of artifacts. This sensor, per Samsung, will enhance light transmission, and preserve details in darker areas of images.
Samsung designed the ISOCELL JN5 sensor to capture details of moving objects with minimal blur and tackle noise in low-light conditions. This is another 50-megapixel sensor aimed at offering versatility across various camera configurations, including wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, front-facing, and telephoto lenses.
When Will New Lenses Be Released?
While Samsung didn’t mention the availability and pricing for devices that will wear these sensors, many expect they will likely be featured in the next Samsung smartphone flagship.
Meanwhile, the competition in smartphone photography is fierce, with manufacturers like Apple, and Google constantly pushing boundaries. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) image processing plays a significant role in enhancing photos, advancements in sensor technology are another key development area.
With Samsung beating Apple to top the chart for US smartphone sales in the last quarter, these new sensors could further cement this position for Samsung when they debut new smartphones.