OmniVision announce new 20mp sensors with PureCel Plus-S tech

The OV20880, designed specifically for main camera applications, offers advanced capabilities such as zig-zag high dynamic range (zHDR) and phase detection autofocus (PDAF). zHDR uses a long and a short exposure in a single frame to extend the dynamic range capabilities of the sensors. Long and short exposure lines are diagonally interlaced across the entire pixel array in a zig-zag pattern. This enables live preview and video recording in HDR mode and single-shot full-resolution HDR images in capture mode without shutter lag.

The OV20880 is also optimized for mobile dual-camera zoom solutions, offering several dual-camera-friendly features such as context switching, scalar, and electronic image stabilization (EIS). The on-chip EIS can synchronize with a gyro sensor on-board without latency, enabling advanced capabilities such as image deblur.

“One of the perpetual challenges in digital imaging is shrinking pixels without sacrificing critical image-quality attributes such as low-light performance, dynamic range, and color reproduction,” said James Liu, senior technical marketing manager at OmniVision. “The second-generation 1.0-micron PureCel Plus-S pixel used in the OV20880 series marks another bold step toward putting professional-grade image quality and advanced features into smartphone cameras.”

The OV20880-4C’s unique color filter pattern offers OmniVision’s customers a variety of output modes depending on the use case. The on-chip in-pixel binning feature allows up to four times more light photons than a regular 1.0-micron pixel. This creates high-sensitivity, high-quality images even in low-light conditions, and allows end users to take clear “super selfies” in a wide range of lighting environments. The OV20880-4C also pairs well with OmniVision’s complete software solution for resolution recovery that enables high-resolution 20-megapixel selfies when combined with the sensor’s 4-cell mode.

“Smartphone users are relying more and more on front-facing cameras to shoot high-quality selfies in a wide variety of environments and lighting conditions,” said Arun Jayaseelan, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. “The OV20880-4C can help deliver great selfies even in dark environments, without compromising resolution.”

Both the OV20880 and OV20880-4C feature a C-PHY interface that enables power savings and pin count reduction. The OV20880 and OV20880-4C can fit into industry-standard, slim form factor modules and integrate well with slim handsets while packing impressive feature sets and 20-megapixel resolution.

The OV20880 and OV20880-4C are currently available for sampling and are expected to enter volume production in the first quarter of 2017.