Thirteen megapixel image sensor for smartphone cameras

James Liu, Product Marketing Manager for OmniVision, stated: “The market for 1/3-inch optical format 13-MP image sensors has grown significantly during the last couple of years due to their optimised size, performance and cost effectiveness; we anticipate that this strong demand will continue for both rear- and front-facing cameras, in mainstream and entry-level smartphone applications. The OV13B builds on the success of our widely deployed 13-MP sensor family with the industry’s best 1.12-micron pixel performance. This sensor will not only fulfil the tremendous demand in the mainstream market, but can also boost the performance of entry-level smartphones. It is also a perfect fit for both wide-angle and telephoto cameras in multi-camera configurations.”

In comparison with its predecessors, the OV13B has significantly lower power consumption, which helps to extend battery life in smartphones. Additionally, the OV13B has a smaller chip size, enabling an 8.5x8.5mm autofocus module for main cameras, or a 6.4x7.2mm fixed-focus module for front-facing cameras with a Z height below four millimetres.

The OV13B image sensor supports phase detection autofocus (PDAF), which has become the de-facto standard for enabling fast autofocus in mobile applications. Additionally, it provides multiple resolution options to meet the needs of end users, including full-resolution 13-MP image output at 30 frames per second (fps), 4K2K video at 30 fps, 1080p full high definition (HD) at 60fps, or 720p HD at 120fps.