Sony has unveiled a new camera sensor for smartphones, the IMX318. Equipped with a fast hybrid autofocus system along with 3-axis electronic image stabilisation, this is one impressive sensor, and it could make its way to the Sony Xperia Z6.
The IMX318 is a 1/2.6-inch CMOS sensor, and it will supposedly deliver better image quality and faster performance over its predecessor, the IMX230. One of the highlight features of this sensor is its hybrid autofocus system: it combines phase detection AF with contrast detection AF, which is able to focus in a mere 0.03 seconds (or 0.017 seconds in 60fps video recording). Judge the focus speed for yourself with the video below:
Other than that, the IMX318 also boasts 3-axis electronic image stabilisation for videos, which Sony said is built right into the internal signal processor. Thanks to this, video captures should look much better with little to no shakiness. Other than that, the stabilisation system not only corrects camera shake, but also lens distortion.
Interestingly, the IMX318 is also capable of 4K video recording at 30fps. Needless to say, such a feature is usually reserved for high-end flagship smartphones. Of course, this sensor also features 22.5 effective megapixels. According to Sony, the IMX318 is capable of capturing 22.5MP still images even in the middle of recording a 4K video.
Sony IMX230 (left) and the Sony IMX318 sample image.
According to Sony, the IMX318 sensor will be shipping in May 2016. Hopefully, the upcoming Xperia Z6 will be packed with this impressive sensor. More information on the IMX318 can be found here.
(Source: Sony)
