Samsung recently announced its new 50-megapixel image sensor for mobile phones. Called the GN1 ISOCELL image sensor, Samsung says that it will basically take mobile photography to the next level.
In more specific words, Samsung claims the GN1 ISOCELL image sensor will usher in the next big trends in mobile photography.
It’ll also bring about some notable improvements to smartphone photos. Namely (according to Samsung) images that are brighter and the ability for the camera to auto-focus faster than before.
The company doesn’t give percentages. So it’s unclear just how much faster these traits are compared to the previous model of this ISOCELL. Samsung does however lay down some numbers related to those improvements for the new 50-megapixel sensor.
The new Samsung 50-megapixel image sensor provides best-in-class-auto-focusing
Samsung says the new image sensor offers auto-focusing capabilities that are best-in-class.
Again, it doesn’t highlight any percentages for comparison. It does mention some values though. the GN1 ISOCELL uses 100 million phase detection auto-focus agents. By taking two photodiodes and putting them side by side within one pixel.
Because of this, the GN1 should focus on still or moving objects Instantly. Which means users expect it to be much easier to capture that perfect shot. If the auto-focus is indeed as fast as Samsung says it is.
Sometimes capturing a certain subject in a photo is hard enough as it is. Let alone if the subject is moving. Or if there are other things that could ruin the shot of a still object. Samsung claims that images captured with this ISOCELL will be comparable to that of a 100-megapixel image sensor.
Say hello to better ultimate low-light photography
Low-light photography is one of the bigger problems with smartphones photos. It’s gotten worlds better over the years. And Samsung aims to improve on it even more with this new image sensor.
The GN1 uses what’s called Tetracell technology. What this does is make it possible for pixels to capture and process more light. Which leads to better photos in conditions with very little light to begin with.
Tetracell doubles the size of pixels in the GN1 to 2.4μm. While also allowing for light sensitivity that is four times greater than the previous image sensor.
Samsung says it started mass production of this new ISOCELL in May. So consumers shouldn’t expect to see it in phones anytime soon. Most likely it won’t be used in phones until much later in the year. If in 2020 at all.