At a recent presentation to investors, Sony shared details of the company’s mid- to long-term business direction. One of the new technologies revealed during the presentation was a new three-layer camera sensor.
What did Sony say?
The presentation was hosted by Shinji Sashida, President and CEO, of Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation. He was representing Sony’s Imaging & Sensing Solutions segment. As part of the presentation, Sashida covered the company’s future directions with regard to image sensors. He also talked about the evolution of smartphone camera performance, with increased resolution, dynamic range, sensitivity and reduced noise.
Multi-layered stacking
In his presentation, Sashida talked about Sony’s developments around multi-layered stacking with image sensors. Sony’s Alpha 1 II mirrorless camera already uses a two-layer sensor. This features a layer with the image-gathering pixels, and a second layer with the logic transistors that process the image. However, Sashida revealed that Sony is now developing a three-layer stacked sensor. This sensor design adds a layer between the pixel and logic layers.
What are the benefits?
Sashida’s presentation shows an example where the intermediate layer is referred to as a pixel translator. This layer wouldn’t increase the resolution of the sensor. However, it would improve the overall performance. Importantly for video, it could also increase the readout speed of the sensor. This would reduce the effects of rolling shutter distortion. Also, it could mean that cameras can record at higher frame rates or deliver faster autofocus.
Global shutter
Sashida’s presentation showed how interchangeable-lens camera performance has improved. As with the section on smartphones, he referenced increased resolution, dynamic range, sensitivity and reduced noise, as well as reduced power consumption. Sashida also showcased Sony’s Alpha 9 II mirrorless camera with its full-frame global shutter.
In addition, he talked about the expansion of the camera market with drones, 360-degree cameras, action cameras and handheld cameras. Interestingly, Sashida stated that the automotive market was a big growth area for camera integration.
What we think
Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation has the world’s largest share of the image sensor market. From Shinji Sashida’s presentation, it’s clear that the company is working hard to maintain this lead. It also demonstrated how wide the image sensor market is, covering cameras, smartphones and even automotive use. The new technologies promise even better image quality, as well as increased readout speed. This is exciting news for anyone who shoots video, with the promise of reduced noise and increased frame rates. The reference to the Alpha 9 II might even hint at more cameras with global shutters in the future. Although it may time for the new technologies to reach market, there is a lot to look forward to from Sony.
