OmniVision readies 720p sensor, processor for mobile
updated 12:05 pm EDT, Mon August 30, 2010
OmniVision OV9740 gives 720p to notebooks, phones
OmniVision today put out a rare camera sensor and processor combo tailored just to video. The OV9740's CMOS sensor has a 720p maximum resolution but processes the entire photo or video on the chip itself, simplifying the work needed with the final shot. The design is also very sensitive to low light and thin at just 3.2mm (0.13in).
The design is pitched as ideal for notebook webcams as well as the front camera on gaming handhelds, media players and smartphones. While not high resolution, the deliberate 720p cap may be an advantage to companies that don't want to crop or rescale the image. It should also cost less than multi-megapixel sensors.
Test samples are already available for the companies using them, and volume production should start next month. OmniVision rarely names its customers but has been a regular supplier for Apple, providing the sensors in iPhones up to and including the iPhone 4.
