OmniVision cameras seen likely for next-gen iPhone, iPad
updated 05:10 pm EDT, Tue April 6, 2010
OmniVision execs hint at new Apple hardware
OmniVision executives today gave JP Morgan analyst Paul Coster hints that they may have deals for cameras in next-generation Apple devices. After a discussion, Coster understood that 'top-tier smart phone companies' would move from three-megapixel cameras to five in the second half of the year. He added that OmniVision was "well-positioned" to provide camera sensors for both the new iPhone and even the next iPad, which in its initial form doesn't have any cameras.
The claims are supported by OmniVision's history, as it has been used for previous iPhone camera sensors, in addition to seemingly detailed rumors. One December slip asserted that the 2010 iPhone would use a 5-megapixel camera and was backed by the recent unveiling of a sensor, the OV5650, that might meet Apple's criteria. It would provide improved image quality even with a higher resolution and could support HD video capture.
High-resolution imaging is increasingly believed to be the highlight of this year's iPhone, which may well be called the iPhone HD if it can both record and display video greater than 480p. Any iPad update would be much further off and may not arrive until next year.
