Samsung Electronics is in the process of developing a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) shutter for mobile applications such as cellphones, according to Tech-On. The technology could be used with sensors capable of high pixel counts. A shutter could overcome the problems associated with quickly transferring the image data, which can lead to long frames or distortion when capturing moving objects.

While standalone cameras can integrate a mechanical shutter, the component sizes are prohibitive for mobile use. The MEMS shutter is created by forming a transparent electrode material, indium tin oxide (ITO), on a glass substrate before adding a light shield film.

The shutter functions using a 30V electric charge, which closes the 36 fan-shaped films. In the absence of electrostatic force, each film is curled and allows light to pass through.

The individual presenting the technology declined to provide more details until at least the end of the year. The company has not disclosed if it intends to eventually utilize the system in consumer devices.