Sony Unveils New 21MP Exmor RS Image Sensor

Although the Sony Xperia Z3 has just been launched, it seems that we're ready to welcome its successor, the Xperia Z4.
With the Xperia Z3 smartphone already out, the rumor mill turned its attention toward the upcoming Xperia Z4 flagship smartphone.

Previous rumors have indicated that the next-gen device may come up with an all-new image sensor. Now, today, Sony has just launched the Exmor RS IMX230, it new mobile shooter.

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Basically, the new mobile imaging sensor is designed for upcoming smartphone cameras. It will apparently feature 21MP and will use image plane phase detection autofocus, which according to Sony is a first for mobile phone cameras. Sony is also expected to make a 16MP version of the sensor designed for mid-range handsets.

"This is the industry's first CMOS image sensor for smartphones to be equipped with an onboard image plane phase detection AF signal processing function to achieve excellent focus tracking of fast-moving subjects. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) function, which captures both backgrounds and subjects clearly and vividly even in high-contrast scenes such as backlit locations, now supports high-resolution still images and 4K video recording. This new CMOS image sensor will ship in April 2015," the company said in a press release.

Rumors so far have indicated that the Xperia Z4 will come with a choice of either a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor or a Snapdragon 810 processor. The device might use a QHD display panel.

In meanwhile, there is no guarantee whether Sony is intended to use it new mobile image sensor into the Xperia Z4. Stay tuned to GizBot for more updates!

Source - Sony