Omnivision OV50X: New 1-Inch Sensor for Flagship Smartphones

Key Takeaways

1. The new Omnivision OV50X sensor has a resolution of 50MP with a larger 1-inch optical format for premium smartphones.
2. It features larger 1.6-micron pixels, allowing for 12.5MP images at 180 fps and 60 fps with three-channel HDR.
3. The sensor achieves a dynamic range of up to 110 dB and has enhanced auto-focus capabilities through quad-phase detection (QPD).
4. It supports high-quality 8K recording with on-sensor crop zoom and dual analog gain (DAG) HDR for professional-grade photo and video quality.
5. Mass production of the OV50X is expected to start in Q3 2025, likely paired with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 processor in an upcoming smartphone.

Omnivision has just introduced their new sensor that boasts a resolution of 50MP, similar to its previous model. However, the OV50X features a significantly larger 1-inch optical format, designed for the most premium smartphones.

Larger Pixels for Enhanced Performance

The pixels on this new sensor are larger than those found in the OV50H model, measuring 1.6 microns (µm). This allows for the binned combination of 4 pixels to produce 12.5MP images at an impressive 180 frames per second (fps). However, when utilizing the sensor’s three-channel HDR, the frame rate is reduced to 60 fps.

Advanced Dynamic Range and Auto-Focus

Omnivision claims that this sensor achieves a dynamic range of up to 110 decibels (dB), setting a new standard for smartphones, made possible by their innovative TheiaCel technology. Additionally, the OV50X is engineered to ensure that its quad-phase detection (QPD) encompasses the entirety of its view, enhancing its auto-focus capabilities. It can also capture RGB RAW footage in 10-, 12-, or 14-bit color.

Premium Video and Photo Quality

The sensor is expected to facilitate high-quality 8K recording, complete with on-sensor crop zoom and dual analog gain (DAG) HDR. It is touted to provide the most “professional” quality for photos and videos available in smartphones to date. All these advanced specifications are compacted into a smaller size thanks to Omnivision’s PureCelPlus-S stacked die technology.

The Omnivision OV50X is anticipated to begin mass production in the third quarter of 2025. Renowned leaker Digital Chat Station has indicated that it will be featured alongside a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 processor in an upcoming Ultra-class smartphone.

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