Sharp on Wednesday announced it will soon ship the thinnest auto-focus, 5-megapixel CMOS camera module ever made. Despite its ultra-small size, the camera features a signal-to-noise ratio that is 1.6 times greater than the best current model, which results in higher-quality images. At just over a quarter-inch thick, the module utilizes a flat-screen lens and high-density design for its auto-focusing CMOS sensor.

The module, named RJ63SC100, has obvious application possibilities in cellular phones and other multi-tasking small devices, and ultra-small digital cameras as well. The square module measures just 0.37 inches, promising a form factor much smaller than that of some other current high-feature 5-megapixel phone offerings.

Sample modules will be released by the end of the month, with full production starting on June 30. The company hasn't named customers for the sensors but manufactures its own phones in addition to supplying parts to outside companies.