Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today announced three new mobile image sensors designed for both main and sub cameras in smartphones: the ISOCELL HP9, the ISOCELL GNJ and the ISOCELL JN5.

As user expectations for smartphone camera quality and performance continue to rise, Samsung’s latest image sensors deliver stunning results from every angle, setting a new standard for mobile photography.

“Enhancing image sensor performance and bridging the gap between main and sub cameras to offer a consistent photography experience across all angles is the new direction of the industry,” said Jesuk Lee, Executive Vice President and CTO of the System LSI Sensor Business Team at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue to set industry standards and push technological boundaries with our new lineup of mobile sensors that integrate the latest advancements.”

ISOCELL HP9: The Industry’s First 200MP Telephoto Sensor for Smartphones

The ISOCELL HP9 features 200 million 0.56-micrometer (μm) pixels in a 1/1.4-inch optical format.

With its proprietary high-refractive microlens featuring a new material, the HP9 significantly enhances light-gathering capability by directing more light accurately to the corresponding RGB color filter. This results in more vivid color reproduction and improved focus with 12% better light sensitivity (based on signal-to-noise ratio 10) and 10% improved autofocus contrast performance compared to the previous product.

Notably, the HP9 excels in low-light conditions, addressing a common challenge for traditional telephoto cameras. Its Tetra²pixel technology merges 16 pixels (4×4) into a large, 12MP 2.24μm-sized sensor, enabling sharper portrait shots — even in dark settings — and creating dramatic out-of-focus bokeh¹ effects.

As main cameras in premium smartphones grow in size, the room for telephoto cameras is also increasing. The HP9’s large optical format makes it suitable for telephoto modules, delivering performance that matches premium main cameras in image quality, autofocus, high dynamic range (HDR) and frames per second (fps).

Powered by a remosaic algorithm, the HP9 offers 2x or 4x in-sensor zoom modes, achieving up to 12x zoom when paired with a 3x zoom telephoto module, all while maintaining crisp image quality.

ISOCELL GNJ: Integrating Cutting-Edge Pixel Technology Innovations

The ISOCELL GNJ is a dual pixel sensor with 50 million 1.0μm pixels in a 1/1.57-inch optical format.

Each pixel houses two photodiodes, enabling fast and accurate autofocus, similar to the way human eyes focus. The image sensor also simultaneously captures full color information for quick focusing with sustained image quality.

The GNJ combines dual pixel technology with an in-sensor zoom function to deliver clearer footage in video mode and higher-resolution images free from artifacts or moiré² patterns in photo mode.

The newly improved high-transmittance anti-refractive layer (ARL), coupled with Samsung’s proprietary high-refractive microlense, not only boosts light transmission and reduces unwanted reflections but also ensures that dark areas are not overly brightened for more accurate photos with well-preserved image details.

In addition, the GNJ includes an upgraded pixel isolation material in deep trench isolation (DTI) from polysilicon to silicon oxide, minimizing crosstalk between adjacent pixels. This allows the sensor to capture more detailed and precise images.

All of these innovations have been achieved with less power consumption, featuring a 29% improvement in preview mode and 34% in video mode at 4K 60fps.

ISOCELL JN5: Consistent Camera Experience From Every Angle With Broad Color Range and Excellent Autofocus

The ISOCELL JN5 features 50 million 0.64μm pixels in a 1/2.76-inch optical format.

Dual vertical transfer gate (Dual VTG) technology increases charge transfer within pixels, substantially reducing noise in extreme low light conditions for clearer image quality.

Leveraging Super Quad Phase Detection (Super QPD), the JN5 adjusts focus by comparing phase differences both vertically and horizontally, catching even the smallest details of rapidly moving objects with minimal shake.

Additionally, the JN5 incorporates dual slope gain (DSG) technology to enhance its HDR. This technology amplifies the analog light information entering the pixels into two signals, converts them into digital, and then combines them into one data, expanding the range of colors that the sensor can produce.

Implementing hardware remosaic algorithms improves camera shooting speed while enabling real-time zoom in both preview and capture modes without any delay.

The JN5’s slim optical format makes it highly versatile, allowing it to be used across main and sub cameras — including wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, front and telephoto — promising a consistent camera experience from various angles.

¹ Bokeh refers to the blur produced in out-of-focus objects in a photo, generally to an aesthetically pleasing degree.
² The moiré effect is an undesirable visual phenomenon that occurs when repetitive details (usually lines) are photographed.

“Engineered with state-of-the-art sensor technologies, Samsung’s ISOCELL Vizion 63D and ISOCELL Vizion 931 will be essential in facilitating machine vision for future high-tech applications like robotics and extended reality (XR),” said Haechang Lee, Executive Vice President of the Next Generation Sensor Development Team at Samsung Electronics. “Leveraging our rich history in technological innovation, we are committed to driving the rapidly expanding image sensor market forward.”

ISOCELL Vizion 63D: Tailored for Capturing High-Resolution 3D Images With Exceptional Detail

Similar to how bats use echolocation to navigate in the dark, ToF sensors measure distance and depth by calculating the time it takes the emitted light to travel to and from an object.

Particularly, Samsung’s ISOCELL Vizion 63D is an indirect ToF (iToF) sensor that measures the phase shift between emitted and reflected light to sense its surroundings in three dimensions. With exceptional accuracy and clarity, the Vizion 63D is ideal for service and industrial robots as well as XR devices and facial authentication where high-resolution and precise depth measuring are crucial.

The ISOCELL Vizion 63D is the industry’s first iToF sensor with an integrated depth-sensing hardware image signal processor (ISP). With this innovative one-chip design, it can precisely capture 3D depth information without the help of another chip, enabling up to a 40% reduction in system power consumption compared to the previous ISOCELL Vizion 33D product. The sensor can also process images at up to 60 frames per second in QVGA resolution (320×240), which is a high-demand display resolution used in commercial and industrial markets.

Based on the industry’s smallest 3.5㎛ pixel size in iToF sensors, the ISOCELL Vizion 63D achieves high Video Graphics Array (VGA) resolution (640×480) within a 1/6.4” optical format, making it an ideal fit for compact, on-the-go devices.

Thanks to backside scattering technology (BST) that enhances light absorption, the Vizion 63D sensor boasts the highest level of quantum efficiency in the industry, reaching 38% at an infrared light wavelength of 940 nanometers (nm). This enables enhanced light sensitivity and reduced noise, resulting in sharper image quality with minimal motion blur.

Moreover, the ISOCELL Vizion 63D supports both flood (high-resolution at short-range) and spot (long-range) lighting modes, significantly extending its measurable distance range from its predecessor’s five meters to 10.

ISOCELL Vizion 931: Optimized for Capturing Dynamic Movements Without Distortion

The ISOCELL Vizion 931 is a global shutter image sensor tailored for capturing rapid movements without the “jello effect”. Unlike rolling shutter sensors that scan the scene line by line from top to bottom in a “rolling” manner, global shutter sensors capture the entire scene at once or “globally,” similar to how human eyes see. This allows the ISOCELL Vizion 931 to capture sharp, undistorted images of moving objects, making it well-suited for motion-tracking in XR devices, gaming systems, service and logistics robots as well as drones.

Designed in a one-to-one ratio VGA resolution (640 x 640) that packs more pixels in a smaller form factor, the ISOCELL Vizion 931 is optimal for iris recognition, eye tracking as well as facial and gesture detection in head-mounted display devices like XR headsets.

The ISOCELL Vizion 931 also achieves the industry’s highest level of quantum efficiency, delivering an impressive 60% at 850nm infrared light wavelength. This feat was made possible by incorporating Front Deep Trench Isolation (FDTI) which places an insulation layer between pixels to maximize light absorption, in addition to the BST method used in the ISOCELL Vizion 63D.

The Vizion 931 supports multi-drop that can seamlessly connect up to four cameras to the application processor using a single wire. With minimal wiring required, the sensor provides greater design flexibility for device manufactures.

Samsung ISOCELL Vizion 63D and ISOCELL Vizion 931 sensors are currently sampling to OEMs worldwide.

Zoom in and Track on Any Subject, No Matter the Location

Samsung’s latest video feature, ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace, gives users more freedom and creativity while filming with their smartphones. With the new solution for 200MP image sensors, users can select the desired subject and the camera will automatically track and film it. Until now, users have had to focus on a moving subject when shooting a video themselves. But with ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace and Qualcomm AI engine, the camera quickly finds a moving subject and tracks and follows it, ensuring that it is not missed during filming. Even fast-moving subjects are prevented from going off-screen. Additionally, videos can be shot with less screen shake.

This feature applies to zoomed-in areas with high resolution, as well, thanks to real-time remosaic¹ capabilities. ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace takes charge of tasks involved in tracking moving subjects while shooting video, and users can simply enjoy the scene in front of them with their own eyes.

Previously, if users took a full-screen video and zoomed in on a subject later, the zoomed-in section suffered from poor video quality. Now, ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace allows users to simultaneously capture the full field of view and zoomed-in areas on video. Not only that, but both the full-screen and zoomed-in views can be filmed at the same time while maintaining high resolution.

This ability to take full-screen and close-up shots at the same time unlocks creative potential by providing the versatility to record one scene in many ways. As a result, creators can film from more angles, and they can do so more freely and dynamically. Even if the chosen subject is on the edge of the screen, users can zoom in on it without modifying the angle of their full-scope filming. In other words, users can zoom just about however they like. If they want to start a shot zoomed in on a subject and then zoom out, they can. If they want to do the inverse, they can do that, as well. Functions allow for a broader range of artistic choices to be made while filming, which enhances the overall user experience.

Thanks to in-sensor zoom by Tetra²pixel, users don’t need to be selective because of zoom limitations, either. Previously, with digital zoom, if the center region of interest (ROI) area was zoomed in 4x at a 12.5MP sum mode, it theoretically resulted in 0.78MP (12.5MP/16) image resolution. With in-sensor zoom, however, the selected area to be zoomed in on is selected from the entire scope and remosaiced, which allows the sensor to maintain the original 12.5MP resolution and enable video to be shot much more vividly. Cameras used to switch from wide to tele when zooming in at 3x or more, which caused the image quality and the angle to change. However, the 200MP wide camera can seamlessly zoom in at 2x or even 4x with no drop off in resolution. Because of this consistent quality, users can now enjoy a true-to-life filming experience.

E2E AI Remosaic for Image Capture

In addition to Zoom Anyplace as a video solution, Samsung is introducing End-to-End (E2E) AI Remosaic for image capture. Currently, the steps the 200MP image sensor follows for processing images after shooting are: raw data output occurs before a remosaic, which then leads to image signal processing (ISP) before finishing with JPEG image output. In this process, all of the steps occur in sequence.

E2E AI Remosaic improves the process by enabling the remosaic and ISP to take place simultaneously. In other words, E2E AI Remosaic takes a process that occurs in sequence and makes it occur in parallel, thereby reducing remosaic latency by up to half. The end result is an overall faster image processing time, which reduces the shooting time of 200MP images and improves image quality. Users will be able to take and check photos more quickly, and image quality will deteriorate on account of data loss from latency less often. Because of this, photos taken will have richer details and colors.

Continued Efforts to Improving User Experience

Based on the progress made with ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace for video and E2E AI Remosaic for image capture, Samsung Electronics is making major advancements in transforming the video and photo experiences. Because of solutions such as these, the 2021 release of the 200MP image sensor seems like a long time ago. However, advancements such as these are part of a long-term plan, as the company is continuing to work on solutions that will improve the user experience even further. We hope that users will keep looking forward to capturing the moment with Samsung’s ultra-high resolution ISOCELL image sensor. 

* The images shown are not taken with ISOCELL Zoom Anyplace or E2E AI Remosaic, and are provided for illustrative purposes only for the expected capabilities of a technology still in development.

¹ Remosaic: array conversion processing

In the opening keynote, Samsung emphasized the company’s vision to lead hyper-intelligent, hyper-connected and hyper-data technologies in the Fourth Industrial Revolution era with its comprehensive logic solutions uniquely tailored for various industries.

“Generative AI has quickly emerged as perhaps the most significant trend of the year, demanding more powerful foundational technologies to process data and bring AI to life,” said Yong-In Park, President and Head of System LSI Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are paving the path toward a new era of proactive AI, leveraging our Samsung System LSI Humanoid platform, which seamlessly converges our capabilities across a broad spectrum of logic semiconductors, from powerful computational IPs, connectivity solutions to sensors emulating the main five human senses.”

First Glimpse of Exynos 2400 Mobile Processor and Zoom Anyplace Image Sensor Technology

One of the event’s highlights was the preview of Samsung’s next-generation flagship mobile processor, the Exynos 2400 with Xclipse 940 GPU based on the latest AMD RDNA 3 architecture. A live demo showcased the processor’s substantially enhanced ray tracing capability, promising improved realism and immersion in gaming through a range of optical effects including global illumination, reflection and shadow rendering.

Achieving significant advancements in computing performance, the Exynos 2400 processor features a 1.7x increase in CPU performance and a remarkable 14.7x boost in AI performance compared to the previous Exynos 2200 product. Additionally, Samsung introduced a new AI tool designed for upcoming smartphones, demonstrating text-to-image AI generation using its Exynos 2400 reference board.

Also revealed for the first time was Samsung’s Zoom Anyplace technology based on its 200-million pixel image sensor. This sensor innovation will enable an entirely new camera zoom experience, allowing mobile users to take up to 4x close-ups of moving objects without any image degradation. AI-based tracking technology automatically follows and captures objects, all while recordings are made in full screen simultaneously, ensuring that no moment or detail is left uncaptured.

Other debuts at the event were Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) non-terrestrial networks (NTN) ready next-generation 5G modem; a new vision sensor brand, the ISOCELL Vizion; and a Smart Health processor.

Samsung’s latest automotive processor slated for mass production in 2025, the Exynos Auto V920, was displayed running several applications across multiple displays. Meanwhile, a video of the ISOCELL Auto 1H1 image sensor highlighted its 120Hz high dynamic range (HDR) and superior LED flicker mitigation (LFM) performance that ensure safer driving.

Demonstrating its capability in cellular and connectivity technologies, Samsung featured a video demo of NB- IoT NTN satellite communication in collaboration with Skylo Technologies, an NTN service provider, using Samsung’s next-gen modem reference device. A live demo of wireless lighting control through its ultra-wideband (UWB) solution, the Exynos Connect U100, was also shared.

Additional logic innovations on display include the 200-megapixel (MP) ultra-high-resolution image sensor, the ISOCELL HP2; an advanced driver assistance (ADAS) and autonomous driving (AD) camera solution, the ISOCELL Auto 1H1; quantum-dot (QD) OLED display driver IC (DDI); IoT security solutions; and wireless-charging power management IC (PMIC).

Deep-Dive Into AI With Academic Experts

During the afternoon panel discussion session, Sukhwan Lim, head of the U.S. System LSI R&D Center, joined with academic experts — Professor Jae-sun Seo of Cornell Tech, Professor Yakun Sophia Shao of UC Berkeley and Professor Thierry Tambe of Stanford University — to discuss the implications on compute platforms from recent trends in generative AI and large language models.

One of the highest resolution mobile image sensors in the world — the 200MP — is embedded inside Samsung’s newest flagship device, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. To prove the true power and detail of its ISOCELL image sensor, Samsung took to the streets of London to showcase photos captured with the 200MP technology in brilliant resolution on one of Europe’s biggest billboards. Check out the video below for behind-the-scenes film from the event.

“There aren’t many locations in the world more iconic and exciting than the bright lights of London’s Piccadilly”, said Annika Bizon of Marketing and Omnichannel at Samsung Electronics U.K. “So where better to demonstrate the power of our Samsung technology while empowering consumers to have fun at the same time? It’s so important to demonstrate in an accessible and imaginative way like this, what innovations can help people really achieve.”

To bring this to life, Samsung placed an old photobooth with the Galaxy S23 Ultra device to capture epic moments using the ISOCELL HP2 image sensor with the 200MP inside the camera — and then shared these on the big screen, showcasing how more pixels can truly mean epic details. Ran Chae of Global Marcom team at Samsung Electronics’ Device Solutions Division explained: “We took the 200MP photos captured in the booth and posted them up on London’s enormous Piccadilly Circus billboard that reaches nearly 700 inches in height, and then zoomed in about 8.5x to show that the photo quality in every pixel remains true to life even when dramatically zoomed in.”

Over 100 content creators that represented diverse communities across the U.K. took part in the event, along with members of the public and competition winners. Each had their photo taken inside the booth, where the advanced 200MP ISOCELL HP2 image sensor captured their epic moment in ultra-high resolution to be shared on the iconic Piccadilly billboard. The photobooth was well attended over the weekend with more than 200 visitors and over 800 photos captured from inside the photobooth across the two days.

Prominent photography creators particularly enjoyed the opportunity to be the subject for once as they tested out the ISOCELL technology. Photographer Chris Priestley — who shared content throughout the event with his 1.3M social followers — explained: “As a photographer, I’m usually behind the camera, so it’s been amazing to be on the other side and to see the sheer quality of the technology on myself.”

People all around the world were eager to take part as their submitted photos displayed in ultra-high resolution on the big screen. Content creators in the U.S., India, China and Germany captured beautiful self-portraits or landscape scenery, which were brought to life on the billboard with 200MP technology. Valentina Pahde, who attended from Germany and shared content with her 844K followers, gushed: “To be photographed in a photobooth and to see my picture in XXL size on the billboard at Piccadilly Circus … I still can’t believe it!”

Alongside the photobooth event, Samsung also ran a photo competition for Galaxy S23 Ultra users in the U.S. and U.K. to drive further buzz on social media. Entrants took to Instagram to #SharetheEpic by capturing a 200MP photo using their Galaxy S23 Ultra device for a chance to see it live on the world-famous billboard. Entrants submitted a variety of images — from landscapes to family and friends, beloved pets and even selfies. Overall, 14 users’ photos were selected from the pre-event competition. Several winners attended in-person to experience the epic details of their 200MP photo live on the big screen, as one shared: “I’m really excited to see what 200MP looks like on the big screen … Wow, that’s my photo — it’s so clear!”

Members of the public were also excited to join Samsung in the photobooth for the chance to see their image shown in magnificent detail on the billboard, with many in awe of the image clarity: “200MP, wow — the quality of the new Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra camera is incredible — can you send me that?”

Crowds cheered as the ISOCELL-captured images went live in epic details — focusing in on lifelike details in exceptional definition, from hair to freckles. A crowd favorite was when content creator Josh Ryan, who shares lifestyle content on his modelling career, took to the screen: “It was so exciting seeing Josh Ryan in person that I actually stayed around to see him on the big screen. He was so zoomed in — the detail was incredible!” Josh also shared his experience with his 3.6M social followers after the event.

Visitors were thrilled to capture every moment of the event. Technology creator Cadea, who shared an Instagram grid post of the event with her 25K followers, praised the product and experience: “It was incredible to be a part of such an innovative, once in a lifetime experience and to get hands-on with the products — very humbling to see the insane level of detail their cameras can capture on the big screen!”

Consumers on Instagram and TikTok were equally astonished to see the epic details illustrated on the huge billboard, resulting in strong engagement online. Lifestyle creator Fats Timbs, who shared her experience of the event through an Instagram reel, received hundreds of positive comments, including one on the zoomed-in detail of her “lashes” and other close-up details shown on the big screen.

You can check out the images and videos from the event on Instagram and TikTok — or even better, if you are a Galaxy S23 Ultra user, get involved by sharing your own 200MP images with the hashtags #SharetheEpic and #MorePixelsEpicDetails.

The image sensor is a smartphone’s key component that determines the quality of photos and videos. Have you ever wondered the use of 200MP image sensors in cutting-edge smartphones like the Galaxy S23 Ultra? The reason for this is that the ultra-high resolution image sensors allow you to capture your epic moment with the epic details. To prove it, Samsung decided to hack the least advanced photobooth in town with a 200MP image sensor and take over one of the world’s most iconic billboards.

Samsung created a specially designed photobooth at a landmark location and installed a 200MP mobile image sensor in the camera so people could see for themselves how powerful ISOCELL sensors can be and how detailed photos taken with these sensors can be. At Piccadilly Circus in London, the photobooth gave those who took pictures a printout that said, “Look up”. When they were leaving the photobooth, they saw the ultra-high resolution photo of themselves displayed on a 45 by 18 meter epic billboard at the Piccadilly Circus. Remarkably, when the photos were zoomed in on the billboard, they showed the quality of 200MP photos — all the lifelike details of their eyes, hair and skin.

Watch the video to see how this was achieved.

“This is my face captured by the 200MP Samsung ISOCELL mobile image sensor and sent straight to the big screens at London’s Piccadilly Circus. This is what smartphones will be capable of,” said GadgetsBoy as attendees discovered the true power of ultra-high resolution cameras and saw for themselves how more pixels in an image sensor means more highly-detailed photos. What’s more, because the experience took place on one of the world’s most iconic billboards, attendees also stated that it was the once-in-a-lifetime moment they had dreamed of and their content went viral on social media.

And now Samsung is bringing the Piccadilly experience back to the huge screen this year with the Galaxy S23 Ultra with ISOCELL HP2. Creators will attend the experiential event and have their photos taken in the photobooth at Piccadilly Circus on April 15 and 16 (GMT). Samsung will also be running a 200MP photo competition in U.S. and U.K., where winners will have their winning ultra-high resolution 200MP photo displayed live on the big screen and a copy of the footage will also be shared with the winners who are unable to attend.

Anyone who owns a Galaxy S23 Ultra and currently lives in the U.S. or U.K. can enter for a chance to be featured on the Piccadilly Circus billboards by simply posting a portrait using Galaxy S23 Ultra on Instagram. Visit the competition website for more information on how to join the competition.

* All images shown may not be an exact representation of the images captured with the product. Some images are digitally enhanced.

The ISOCELL HP2 image sensor helps users capture epic detail for stunning photos, even in challenging conditions. It’s the biggest sensor ever on a Galaxy device and its 200 million pixels improve image clarity while enhancing the appearance of colors in every pixel. In addition to more megapixels, the enhanced pixel structure, pixel binning technology, fast autofocus and HDR capabilities enable any user to capture phenomenal content and granular detail in a variety of situations to deliver a remarkable photography experience.

▲ ISOCELL HP2 image sensor

Epic Tales in Epic Details

The pixel count in a sensor determines how the detail within an image. As digital photos grow, more information makes more details possible.

▲ Photo size comparison by resolution

A 200MP image is 16 times bigger with 16 times more information than the 12.5MP image. This means that the image maintains its level of detail even after cropping. When zooming in on a photo for cropping, a photo typically appears blurry due to few image pixels. But this is not an issue with the Galaxy S23 Ultra. For example, even if a 200MP image is cropped in half, both vertically and horizontally, the resulting 50MP image maintains incredibly rich details. Furthermore, the ISOCELL HP2 utilizes an advanced deep learning algorithm to produce 200MP images with more accurate colors and details, made possible by the ISOCELL HP2. Whether you are zooming in on an image or cropping photos, experience clear and crisp details with the Galaxy S23 Ultra with ISOCELL HP2.

Every Pixel Tells a Story

To enhance the performance of each individual pixel of the ISOCELL HP2, Samsung enhanced the pixel structure to absorb more light than ever. The ISOCELL HP2 features a re-designed pixel structure, Dual Vertical Transfer Gate(D-VTG), which enhances the appearance of colors and details in every pixel, even in some of the brightest conditions.

Shoot at the Resolution You Need

Do you think that all pictures need to be 200 million pixels? With the versatile ISOCELL, you don’t need to worry. Specially designed with the Tetra²pixel technology, the ISOCELL HP2 within the Galaxy S23 Ultra ensures optimal quality by giving users resolutions from which to choose. It combines up to 16 individual pixels together into one, which then operates as one big pixel.

Thus, the ISOCELL HP2 sensor provides 200MP, 50MP and 12MP output options that allow the user to change resolution depending on their needs. In its default mode, the ISOCELL HP2 produces a 12MP image by merging 16 pixels into one big pixel. When you need a photo that has ultra-high quality, you can choose 200MP mode and the ISOCELL HP2 produces the image with rich details.

Nightography: Light up the Night

▲ Photo taken of the Palace of Fine Arts using Galaxy S23 Ultra’s Nightography feature

The Galaxy S23 Ultra’s Nightography capabilities have improved the photography experience for users in darker environments. The Galaxy S23 Ultra features AI-enabled image signal processing technology that adjusts the saved data on the image sensor to improve the color tone and picture quality. Additionally, the ISOCELL HP2’s Tetra²pixel technology is an important enabler of the improved Nightography capability. In lower-light conditions, the ISOCELL HP2 merges neighboring pixels into one, allowing it to operate as a single 2.4um-sized pixel with 12MP for absorbing more light in a single pixel. This technology increases the light sensitivity of pixels to equip the Galaxy S23 Ultra to deliver clearer low-light photos with less noise.

Sharper Shots With Improved Autofocus

To clearly capture high-movement scenes with the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the ISOCELL HP2 features Super QPD technology for faster autofocus. With Super QPD, every pixel is utilized for phase detection, compared to only 3% of pixels in its 108MP predecessor. As a result, 200 million pixels are used for focusing agents — taking auto-focusing to the next level. Each micro-lens covers four adjacent autofocus pixels, which allows the sensor to detect movement both in horizontal and vertical direction.

Capture Smooth and Vibrant Videos 

The ISOCELL HP2 helps the Galaxy S23 Ultra shoot detailed 4K and 8K videos that produce a cinematic experience. By using the ISOCELL HP2 in its 50MP mode, which combines four pixels into one big pixel with Tetra²pixel technology, the Galaxy S23 Ultra can capture 8K video with bright, clear colors and a wider angle than its predecessor.

ISOCELL HP2: Epically Equipped 

The ISOCELL HP2 image sensor equips the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s pro-grade camera with advanced technology that enables even more detail, no matter your environment. You can record every moment in high resolution — fast autofocus allows you to effortlessly capture movement in a photo, while the Tetra²pixel technology enables 8K videos with wide angle. Whether in motion or under low light or bright sun, the new image sensor delivers unrivaled photos. Experience vibrant color, clear resolution and professional photo quality in every situation.

Please visit the website for more information about the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the ISOCELL HP2.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color crosstalk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0μm-pixel image sensor in 2015 and a 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. In June 2018, Samsung introduced an upgraded pixel isolation technology, the ISOCELL Plus. In 2020, Samsung introduced a 1.2μm-pixel image sensor, the first to offer both Dual Pixel and Tetrapixel technologies. In 2021, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 0.64-μm-pixel image sensor and continued to innovate with diverse technologies.
** All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, components, performance, availability and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.
*** All images shown are provided for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product or images captured with the product. All images are digitally edited, modified or enhanced.
**** Samsung reserves the right to change images and specifications at any time without notice. Nonmetric weights and measurements are approximate. All data were deemed correct at time of creation. Samsung is not liable for errors or omissions.

¹ 0.6-micrometer (μm) pixels in a 1/1.3” optical format

Samsung Electronics today introduced its latest 200-megapixel (MP) image sensor, the ISOCELL HP2, with improved pixel technology and full-well capacity for stunning mobile images in tomorrow’s premium smartphones.

“The Samsung ISOCELL HP2 harnesses Samsung’s high-resolution image sensor technologies and know-how at the cutting edge for epic details,” said JoonSeo Yim, Executive Vice President of Sensor Business Team at Samsung Electronics. “Our leadership comes from innovative pixel technologies that allow our sensors to go beyond the number and size of pixels. We will continue to open new horizons and solidify our presence in the expanding ultra-high-resolution sensor market.”

The ISOCELL HP2 packs 200-million 0.6-micrometer (μm) pixels in a 1/1.3” optical format, a sensor size that is widely used in 108MP main smartphone cameras. This enables consumers to enjoy even higher resolutions in the latest high-end smartphones without larger camera bumps in their devices.

With Samsung’s advanced pixel-binning technology, Tetra²pixel, the HP2 adds more versatility to the camera as it simulates different pixel sizes to accommodate varying lighting levels. When in low-lit environments, the sensor transforms either into a 1.2μm 50MP or 2.4μm 12.5MP image sensor by binding four to 16 neighboring pixels. For fuller 8K video, approximately at 33MP, the HP2 switches to 1.2μm 50MP mode to minimize cropping and capture more of the scene. Filming 8K at 30 frames-per-second (fps), a wide field of view along with bigger pixel size can produce sharp cinematic videos.

Washed out pictures from brightly lit environments can be significantly reduced with the HP2, thanks to Samsung’s new Dual Vertical Transfer Gate (D-VTG) technology. In a photo diode within each pixel, a voltage transfer gate is placed on the bottom to transport electrons from the pixels to the logic layer. With high precision, D-VTG adds a second transfer gate in the pixel, boosting the pixel’s full-well capacity by more than 33 percent. With more electrons stored and efficient signal transfers, this method can reduce overexposure and enhance color reproduction, especially in bright light conditions.

In low-lit settings, the HP2’s auto-focusing is taken to the next level with Super QPD, which allows the sensor to use all its 200-million pixels for focusing agents. The ample amount of focusing agents are grouped by four adjacent pixels to recognize both horizontal and vertical pattern changes that delivers faster and more accurate auto-focusing. Utilizing the rich pattern data along with the sheer number of reference points, the new sensor is capable of fast auto-focusing, even in a dimly lit environment.

For superb HDR performance, Samsung is introducing the DSG feature for the first time in 50MP mode which applies two separate conversion values to the analog signal received at the pixel level. In addition, the Smart-ISO Pro, an HDR solution that merges different levels of ISO readouts from a single exposure, allows the camera to take 12.5MP images and 4K at 60fps video in HDR.

The Samsung ISOCELL HP2 has entered mass production.

▲ Sungsoo Choi (left) from the Semiconductor R&D Center and Myoungoh Ki from the Advanced Sensor Development Team in Samsung Electronics’ System LSI business that developed the ISOCELL HP3.

The nail-sized camera lenses that are built into mobile devices have advanced extraordinarily since their inception. After becoming the first company in the industry to unveil CMOS image sensors (CIS) with 108 and 200 megapixels in 2019 and 2021 respectively, Samsung Electronics has recently surprised the market yet again with its ISOCELL HP3 image sensor, an image sensor packed with 200 million 0.56-micrometer (μm)-pixels, the smallest pixels in the industry.

Samsung is a leader in image sensor technologies with innovative semiconductor designs that can capture stunning images with high amounts of pixels. Through the announcement of the mass production of its ultra-high pixel image sensor, the ISOCELL HP3, the company has commercialized the development of 200MP mobile image sensors with ultra-small pixels.

To learn more about how Samsung developed this industry leading ultra-high pixel image sensor, Samsung Newsroom spoke with Myoungoh Ki and Sungsoo Choi, developers from the System LSI business and the Semiconductor R&D Center respectively who played a leading role in the development of the new ISOCELL HP3.

Smaller and Better: The First Company in the Industry To Commercialize 0.56μm Pixels

An image sensor is a system semiconductor that converts light that enters the device through the camera lens into digital signals. From digital cameras and smartphones to laptops and cars, image sensors are built into all electronic products that come with a camera. The ISOCELL HP3 that Samsung has recently unveiled is an image sensor that packs 200 million 0.56μm pixels, the smallest pixels in the industry, in a 1/1.4” optical format.¹

Since 2019, Samsung has annually succeeded in reducing its pixel size to match the smallest size in the industry. Smaller pixels are needed in order to keep devices slim.

“With a smaller unit pixel size, the physical size of the sensor and module can be reduced, allowing the size and width of the lens to be reduced as well,” explained Ki. “This can eliminate elements that interfere with the design of the device, such as a camera that protrudes, and can also reduce power consumption.”

While smaller pixels enable devices to be slimmer, maintaining image quality with smaller pixels is key. Developed using cutting-edge technology, the ISOCELL HP3, with a 12 percent smaller pixel size than the previous ISOCELL HP1 model, can reduce the camera module surface area in a mobile device by up to 20%. Despite its smaller pixel size, the sensor was developed using technology that maximizes full well capacity (FWC) and minimizes sensitivity loss. Additionally, new features were added to the sensor, including auto-focusing capabilities for all pixels and functions that enable high-speed video operation, along with enhanced color expression.

Increased Light Absorption and Photo Diode Capacity Using Unique Technological Capabilities

Smaller pixel size is ideal for creating smaller, slimmer devices but may result in less light entering the device or interference between adjacent pixels. Despite these challenges, Samsung was able to utilize the industry’s smallest pixels to create an innovative new sensor.

“It’s all thanks to Samsung’s proprietary technological capabilities,” said Ki. “Samsung’s innovative technology is able to provide high performance even in much smaller devices.”

Samsung succeeded in creating physical walls between pixels that are thinner and deeper by using its proprietary technology called Full Depth deep trench isolation (DTI), guaranteeing high performance even with 0.56μm. DTI, the key technology of the ISOCELL, creates an insulated component between pixels, acting as an isolated wall to prevent light loss and improve optical performance. Developer Choi compared this technology to building a thin barrier between different rooms in a building.

“In layman’s terms, it is the same as trying to create a thinner wall between your room and the room next door without affecting the soundproofing level,” explained Choi.

The key to DTI is to create thinner and deeper silicone walls to increase the ISO and reduce crosstalk² since larger insulation components between pixels mean more light loss. By applying this technique to the 0.56μm pixels, Samsung increased light absorption and maximized photo diode (PD) capacity. Therefore, utilizing ultra-small pixels has become possible since more light per pixel can be stored and processed even with a smaller light receptor area.

Auto-Focusing Feature for All 200 Megapixels Provides Increased Speed and Accuracy

The Super Quad Phase Detection (QPD) technology, which was first used in the HP3, enables all 200 megapixels to focus by increasing the auto-focusing pixel intensity to 100%. The Super QPD offers a faster and more accurate auto-focusing feature by utilizing one lens over four pixels, enabling the measurement of all phase differences of the left, right, top and bottom sides of the photographed subject. Not only is auto-focusing accurate even when it is dark, but high definition is maintained even when zoomed in.

To tackle the problem of poor image quality in low-light environments, Samsung utilized innovative pixel technology to ensure high quality images. “We utilized an upgraded version of Samsung’s proprietary Tetra²pixel technology which combines four or sixteen adjacent pixels to operate as one large pixel in low-light environments,” said Choi. The upgraded pixel technology enables high-resolution filming in 8K at 30 frames-per-second (fps) and in 4K at 120fps with no loss in the field of view. Moreover, it is possible to film 8K videos in ultra-high resolution with the same field of view as when taking photos.

Similar to low-light environments, it is also difficult to take photos when there is too much sunlight. In order to combat this problem, unique technology is needed to adjust the levels in photos to capture an image properly. “When there is too much or too little light, it is important to increase the dynamic range³ in order to take a natural photo that looks similar to what we see with our eyes,” said Ki. “By using the Smart-ISO Pro technology, which uses two conversion gains, and the Staggered High Dynamic Range (HDR)⁴ feature, which morphs three frames with different exposures (short exposure, medium exposure and long exposure) into one, it supports HDR photography that creates natural images even when shooting in imperfect lighting conditions, providing an optimal result.”

Collaboration: The Key for Overcoming Technical Limitations and Enabling Fast Development

During the development of the ISOCELL HP3, the developers faced various technical challenges. “As this was the first product that utilized the Super QPD technology, there was a lot of trial and error when utilizing a new structure that could not be found in existing Front Deep Trench Isolation (FDTI), and we also experienced issues that we had not anticipated in each development stage,” said Choi.

Despite such a difficult development process, the new sensor was announced less than a year after the previous model was released. The two developers attributed this rapid product development and release to collaboration between different teams.

“Whenever we faced a technical issue, we responded by closely cooperating with different business divisions, our team and even overseas research centers,” said Ki. “We were able to create synergy by adding know-how to top tier products, such as memory chips from the Semiconductor R&D center, logic chips and more. This new product may be the biggest collaborative effort between different departments yet, including employees from the Semiconductor R&D Center, Pixel Development Team, foundry, researchers at the SSIR and all groups in the advanced development team, such as sensor design, pixel, solution, product technology, manufacturing and algorithm.”

Pride in Leading Technical Prowess: Leading the Image Sensor Market

While the image sensor market is expected to experience rapid growth due to increased demand for cameras and the diversification of related products, Samsung is setting trends for cameras in the next-generation mobile image sensor market by overcoming the limitations of pixel miniaturization. Samsung Newsroom asked the two developers how they felt about leading the technical development of the ISOCELL HP3, the first 200MP image sensor in the industry to use 0.56μm pixels.

“I take great pride in the fact that we are creating trends in the image sensor market and I am confident that we will continue to lead in micropixel technology,” said Choi. “Since applications of image sensors are becoming more widespread in various industries, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and the automobile industry, in addition to the smartphone industry, we will lead the development of future technologies and markets based on our unique technological capabilities,” said Ki, sharing his future ambitions.

Samsung has successfully created ultra-small devices that capture images in high definition through its innovative image sensor technology. Samsung will continue to lead the image sensor market through its unique innovations, such as the ISOCELL image sensor, that provide optimized and advanced experiences to its users.

¹ The diameter of the area that is captured through the camera lens.

² A phenomenon where light interferes with the photodiodes of adjacent pixels.

³ The ratio between the brightest and darkest parts in a digital image.

⁴ A technology that expands the scope of brightness by making the bright parts brighter and the dark parts darker, similar to how the actual human eye sees.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced the 200MP ISOCELL HP3, the image sensor with the industry’s smallest 0.56-micrometer (μm)-pixels.

“Samsung has continuously led the image sensor market trend through its technology leadership in high resolution sensors with the smallest pixels,” said JoonSeo Yim, Executive Vice President of Sensor Business Team at Samsung Electronics. “With our latest and upgraded 0.56μm 200MP ISOCELL HP3, Samsung will push on to deliver epic resolutions beyond professional levels for smartphone camera users.”

Epic Resolution Beyond Pro Levels

Since its first 108MP image sensor roll-out in 2019, Samsung has been leading the trend of next-generation, ultra-high-resolution camera development. Through the steady launch of new image sensors and advancements in performance, the company is once again forging ahead with the 0.56μm 200MP ISOCELL HP3.

The ISOCELL HP3, with a 12 percent smaller pixel size than the predecessor’s 0.64μm, packs 200 million pixels in a 1/1.4” optical format, which is the diameter of the area that is captured through the camera lens. This means that the ISOCELL HP3 can enable an approximately 20 percent reduction in camera module surface area, allowing smartphone manufacturers to keep their premium devices slim.

The ISOCELL HP3 comes with a Super QPD auto-focusing solution, meaning that all of the sensor’s pixels are equipped with auto-focusing capabilities. In addition, Super QPD uses a single lens over four-adjacent pixels to detect the phase differences in both horizontal and vertical directions. This paves way for a more accurate and quicker auto focusing for smartphone camera users.

The sensor also allows users to take videos in 8K at 30 frames-per-second (fps) or 4K at 120fps, with minimal loss in the field of view when taking 8K videos. Combined with the Super QPD solution, users can take movie-like cinematic footage with their mobile devices.

Ultimate Low Light Experience Through ‘Tetra²pixel’

The ISOCELL HP3 also provides an ultimate low-light experience, with the Tetra²pixel technology that combines four pixels into one to transform the 0.56μm 200MP sensor into a 1.12μm 50MP sensor, or a 12.5MP sensor with 2.24μm-pixels by combining 16 pixels into one. The technology enables the sensor to simulate a large-sized pixel sensor to take brighter and more vibrant shots even in dimmed environments, like in-doors or during nighttime.

To maximize the dynamic range of the mobile image sensor, the ISOCELL HP3 adopts an improved Smart-ISO Pro feature. The technology merges image information made from the two conversion gains of Low and High ISO mode to create HDR images. The upgraded version of the technology comes with a triple ISO mode — Low, Mid and High — that further widens the sensor’s dynamic range. In addition, the improved Smart-ISO Pro enables the sensor to express images in over 4 trillion colors (14-bit color depth), 64 times more colors than the predecessor’s 68 billion (12-bit). Furthermore, by supporting staggered HDR along with Smart-ISO Pro, the ISOCELL HP3 can switch between the two solutions depending on the filming environment to produce high-quality HDR images.

Samples of the Samsung ISOCELL HP3 are currently available, and mass production is set to begin this year.

Keep reading to learn how the 28-meter-wide, 22-meter-high photograph (about one and a half times the size of a basketball court) came out.

“Our desire to truly test the limits of the high-performance 200MP image sensor and its image quality is what brought this challenge about,” said Changwan Kim, project manager from the Global Marcom Team of Device Solutions Division at Samsung Electronics.

“I have always wondered just how big you could go when it comes to printing out a 200MP image,” said Minhyuk Lee, an engineer from the Sensor Solutions Team at Samsung’s System LSI Business. “As exciting as it was, the challenge was a demanding one, as this was our first time showcasing the quality of an image sensor that has yet to be adopted in smartphones.”

Taking a picture with an image sensor still under development, for a camera module that is not yet fully optimized, is a very tricky task. Nonetheless, the team decided to push themselves by working with a living, moving subject rather than going with an inanimate object.

“Choosing a cat as our subject was a difficult decision. It gave us a lot of obstacles to overcome, such as capturing such an active subject with a test board,” said Minhyuk Lee. “However, the team concluded that the subject should be something that would show off a high level of detail and that was a popular photography subject at the same time.”

The team calculated several variables while preparing to shoot in an unstable environment. They even built a custom adaptor to allow them to attach various DSLR camera lenses to a test board. “In the end, we thought it was most important to capture the scene in the same conditions that smartphone users would be in,” said Kaeul Lee of the Sensor Solutions Team. “Because of this, we went with a smartphone camera module with no other aids. The results were very satisfying.”

Since the photo was taken using a test board, the photographer first checked the screen and adjusted the composition. Then, the engineers modified the settings to optimize exposure and focus. After observing the cat’s movements, the film crew then used different methods to take a series of pictures. Photographer Hyunjoong Kim was curious to see the result since 200MP resolution is not easy to come by, even in DSLR cameras. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the raw image enlarged to 100%,” said Hyunjoong Kim. “I was truly astonished by the degree of detail. In that moment, I knew any prejudices I previously had regarding smartphone photography had been proven wrong.”

The printing process was far from easy, as obviously, a 616 square-meter image cannot be printed all at once. The picture had to be printed on twelve separate 2.3-meter-long pieces of fabric and then stitched together. The printout was then transported over on a truck and installed on the wall of a building using a crane.

“When the picture was unfurled for the big reveal, the true enormousness of it really struck me, and not just because of its actual size,” said Changwan Kim. “The moment I witnessed the 200 million pixels depicting the stunning detail of the cat’s eyes and fur, I was overwhelmed by all of the efforts that had gone into developing this final product.”

For the team, the challenge of truly visualizing the next-level capabilities of 200MP technology was a thrilling one. Going forward, Samsung will continue to expand its leadership in the high-resolution market.

“The ultimate benefit of the 200MP image sensor is to allow users to capture an image that can be zoomed in and cropped without compromising on image quality,” said Kaeul Lee and Minhyuk Lee in a final comment. “The 200MP image sensor will soon become the optimal solution for 8K video recording.”

In the future, keep an eye out for new experiences the thumbnail-sized ISOCELL mobile image sensor will deliver next by following Samsung Newsroom.

Combining ultra-high resolution with fast autofocus and unparalleled low-light performance, Samsung’s newest image sensor allows you to capture any moment in impeccable detail. Here’s how the ISOCELL HP1 is changing the mobile photography game.

200 Million Pixels

The ISOCELL HP1’s ultra-high resolution is a big leap forward for mobile photography. Based on Samsung’s 0.64μm pixels, the ISOCELL HP1 is the world’s first 200-megapixel (MP) image sensor.

The sensor’s groundbreaking pixel count allows you to faithfully capture each and every aspect of your favorite moments. This means that images captured with the ISOCELL HP1 contain a world of detail even when cropped or zoomed in. To help users take full advantage of the 200MP sensor, the ISOCELL HP1 comes with Samsung’s new 4×4 hybrid pixel-binning technology, which allows it to adjust its pixel layout to suit the shooting environment, and is powered by a sophisticated, deep learning-based software remosaic.

The sensor’s pixel-binning technology also enables it to record crisp 8K videos with minimum loss in the field of view. It works by combining four pixels into one 1.28μm-sized pixel, allowing you to capture gorgeous 8K videos at 30fps, and stunning 4K slow-motion clips at 120fps.

Light Up the Night

Say goodbye to grainy low-light photos. The ISOCELL HP1’s combination of pixel-binning technology, Smart-ISO and multisampling allows you to capture clearer photos in dark settings.

When shooting in low-light environments, 4×4 hybrid pixel-binning technology – one of the ISOCELL HP1’s most versatile innovations – merges 16 pixels into one large, 2.56μm-sized pixel. This greatly improves the sensor’s light absorption, producing bright, 12.5MP images with less noise.

Smart-ISO, meanwhile, allows the ISOCELL HP1 to intelligently adjust to various lighting conditions. In dim environments, it switches to High ISO mode to deliver brighter, clearer photos. In well-lit environments, it selects Low ISO mode to ensure accurate colors and to reduce oversaturation. Finally, the image sensor’s multisampling technology reduces noise by analyzing multiple readouts of each pixel and averaging them into one.

Vibrant HDR Photos

The ISOCELL HP1 combines crystal clear details with vivid colors that make your photos pop. This is possible thanks to the addition of cutting-edge technologies like Staggered HDR and Smart-ISO Pro.

The former allows the image sensor to achieve a wide dynamic range of 100dB. A fast and efficient method of producing high dynamic range images, Staggered HDR captures frames at short, middle and long exposures to accurately expose shadows and highlights. It then merges those exposures into one image, so you can enjoy crisp, clear photos even in mixed-lighting scenarios. The ISOCELL HP1 also features Smart-ISO Pro, which takes Smart-ISO’s benefits a step further to enhance HDR video recording with sharper images and fewer motion artifacts.

Focus at the Speed of Life

To make it easier for users to capture fleeting moments, Samsung equipped the ISOCELL HP1 with fast and accurate autofocus. This is made possible thanks to the image sensor’s Double Super PD phase detection technology. Double Super PD technology contains twice as many autofocus pixels as Super PD. Those pixels are covered by AF micro-lenses that allow you to focus on fast-moving objects faster and capture stunning content.

With its groundbreaking resolution and cutting-edge technologies, the ISOCELL HP1 offers users access to a whole new world of detail. Get the most out of any moment with an image sensor that’s designed for a new era of mobile photography.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced the ISOCELL HP1, the industry’s first 200-megapixel (MP) image sensor with 0.64μm pixels, and ISOCELL GN5, the first image sensor to adopt all-directional focusing Dual Pixel Pro technology with two photodiodes in a single 1.0μm pixel.

“Samsung has been pioneering ultrafine pixel technologies that are taking high-resolution image sensors to the next level,” said Duckhyun Chang, executive vice president of sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “With the ISOCELL HP1 that is breaking barriers and ISOCELL GN5 bringing ultrafast auto focus, Samsung will continue to lead the trend for next-generation mobile imaging technologies.”

ISOCELL HP1: Capture the World in Breathtaking 200MP and Crystal Sharp 8K Video

The ISOCELL HP1 is the industry’s first mobile image sensor to support 200MP. Based on Samsung’s most advanced 0.64μm-sized pixels, the ISOCELL HP1 brings such ultrahigh resolution in a small package that fits comfortably in today’s handheld devices. With the ISOCELL HP1, pictures hold an astonishing amount of detail that helps the image stay sharp even when cropped or resized.

For ultimate low-light photography, the ISOCELL HP1 features an all-new Tetra²pixel** technology, a pixel-binning technology that uses a two-by-two, four-by-four or full pixel layout depending on the environment. In a low-lit environment, the HP1 transforms into a 12.5MP image sensor with large 2.56μm pixels by merging 16 neighboring pixels. The newly formed 2.56μm pixel is capable of more light absorption and sensitivity, producing brighter and clearer photos in in-doors or in the evening. In bright outdoor environments, the sensor’s 200-million pixels can capture ultra-high-definition photography on mobile devices.

The ISOCELL HP1 can take 8K videos at 30 frames-per-second (fps) with minimum loss in the field of view. The HP1 merges four neighboring pixels to bring the resolution down to 50MP or 8,192 x 6,144 to take 8K (7,680 x 4,320) videos without the need to crop or scale down the full image resolution.

ISOCELL GN5: Lock on Instantly and Take Super-Sharp Hi-Res Images With All-Directional Autofocus

The ISOCELL GN5 is the industry’s first 1.0μm image sensor to integrate Dual Pixel Pro, an all-directional autofocusing technology, that can substantially boost autofocusing capabilities. This technology places two photodiodes, the smallest in the industry, within each 1.0μm pixel of the sensor either horizontally or vertically to recognize pattern changes in all directions. With one million phase-detecting multi-directional photodiodes covering all areas of the sensor, the ISOCELL GN5’s autofocusing becomes instantaneous, enabling sharper images in either bright or low-lit environments.

The image sensor also makes use of Samsung’s proprietary pixel technology, which applies Front Deep Trench Isolation (FDTI) on a Dual Pixel product for the first time in the industry. Despite the microscopic photodiode size, FDTI enables each photodiode to absorb and hold more light information, improving the photodiodes’ full-well capacity (FWC) and decreasing crosstalk within the pixel.

Samples of Samsung ISOCELL HP1 and GN5 are currently available.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color crosstalk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0μm-pixel image sensor in 2015 and a 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. Samsung continues to enhance its pixel isolation methods with ISOCELL Plus and ISOCELL 2.0 technologies.

** Technological term of “Tetra²pixel” was updated in July 2022.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced ISOCELL Auto 4AC, an automotive image sensor that offers advanced 120-decibel (dB) high dynamic range (HDR) and LED flicker mitigation (LFM) especially for surround-view monitors (SVM) or rear-view cameras (RVC) in high-definition resolution (1280 x 960). The new sensor is Samsung’s first imaging solution optimized for automotive applications.

“The new ISOCELL Auto 4AC combines Samsung’s innovative and market-proven image sensor technologies with a unique CornerPixel solution for advanced HDR and LFM capabilities, offering exceptional viewing experiences regardless of lighting conditions,” said Duckhyun Chang, executive vice president of sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “Starting with the ISOCELL Auto 4AC, we plan to expand our automotive sensor lineup to areas such as camera monitor systems (CMS), autonomous driving and in-cabin monitoring.”

Various lighting situations on the road may pose obstacles to the driver. Quick transitions from a low-lit environment to a brighter one, such as exiting a tunnel, may require a few seconds for the driver’s eyes to adjust. Also, flickering from LED headlamps or road signage, such as street lamps and traffic lights, could become increasingly noticeable on the automotive system’s camera screen.

The ISOCELL Auto 4AC offers a safer driving experience with an enhanced field of view for the driver with its CornerPixel technology. The technology features a specialized pixel structure that mitigates LED light over 90-hertz (Hz). Within a single pixel area, it embeds two photodiodes, one 3.0µm pixel for viewing low light images, and a 1.0µm pixel placed at the corner of the big pixel for brighter environments. With two photodiodes capturing images in different exposures simultaneously, the sensor offers up to 120dB HDR with minimal motion blur, allowing smoother transitions between dark and bright areas while preserving more details of the road ahead.

To minimize LED flickering, the smaller photodiode’s exposure time can be extended, preventing pulsing LED light from being displayed as flickering on the camera screen. This delivers a more pleasant viewing experience for the driver and more accurate image data on LED-embedded objects for the automotive system to recognize.

The Samsung ISOCELL Auto 4AC comes in a 1/3.7-inch optical format with 1.2 million 3.0-micrometer (µm) pixels, and for streamlined client system installations, an image signal processor (ISP) is embedded within the sensor.

The 4AC meets stringent AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualifications, including a -40°C to 125°C operating temperature range, and is currently in mass production.

* Editor’s Note: Actual performance may vary depending on device and user environment.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color crosstalk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0um-pixel image sensor in 2015 and a 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. Samsung continues to enhance its pixel isolation methods with ISOCELL Plus and the ISOCELL 2.0 technologies.

Dynamic range, which refers to the brightest and darkest parts of a scene, is key to creating vibrant images with your smartphone. However, even the best digital cameras available today are unable to match the dynamic range of the human eye.

To maximize the dynamic range on smartphone cameras, Samsung engineers developed an innovative High Dynamic Range (HDR) solution for mobile image sensors – the Smart-ISO Pro.

How Image Sensors Capture Light

To understand how Smart-ISO Pro creates dynamic and vivid images, it is key to first understand how image sensors capture light and how sensor’s light sensitivity works.

In digital photography, the conversion gain determines the light sensitivity of the image sensor and is utilized to convert light into voltage. When shooting in low-light environments, details in dark areas can be lost if the conversion gain is too low. By contrast, the image sensor may not be able to retain sufficient color information if the conversion gain is too high in brighter environments.

Most mobile image sensors have a fixed conversion gain. This makes it challenging for smartphones to consistently capture high-quality photos across different lighting environments. The problem can then become even more pronounced in mixed lighting environments with extreme lighting discrepancies, such as backlit portraits.

Pro-Grade Photography, Made Simple

To ensure smartphone cameras can deliver clear images even in diverse lighting situations, Samsung developed Smart-ISO technology for its image sensors. This solution equips image sensors with two levels of conversion gain, high and low ISO mode, allowing the camera to select the optimal settings depending on the environment.

When the lighting is low, high ISO mode converts light to voltage with higher conversion gain to express adequate detailing in shadow while reducing noise in the image. Low ISO mode also maximizes the capacity of each individual pixel to prevent oversaturation and to enhance color reproduction in brighter parts of the shot.

Following the development of Smart-ISO, engineers at Samsung began exploring ways to combine two levels of conversion gain into a single image sensor in order to improve the dynamic range. The result is Smart-ISO Pro, an HDR solution that enables the image sensor to capture a single HDR photo with the benefits of both high and low ISO modes.

When the smartphone camera takes a photo, Smart-ISO Pro first converts the light information of the scene into the voltage signal in both high and low ISO modes respectively. Next, the technology intelligently combines the outcome of the two modes together to create a final image with high dynamic range. This enables the image sensor to bring out the detailing of darker areas, retain the natural color of highlight areas, and ultimately produce images that are true-to-life.

Bursting With Color

The power of Smart-ISO Pro technology goes beyond its ability to precisely capture contrasting light and shadowed areas. With 12-bit color depth support, the technology also delivers unparalleled accuracy in color reproduction. Pixels in image sensors record color information through binary digits, also known as bits. The more bits per pixel, the more colors the sensor can produce.

By combining the information from two 10-bit images together, Smart-ISO Pro can express over 687 billion colors, which is 10 times more than a single 10-bit image. When shooting a smartphone’s pro mode, 12-bit HDR images can be saved in RAW format, giving users greater flexibility when it comes to adjusting exposure, white balance, color and more with less concessions.

The integration of Smart-ISO Pro into Samsung’s ISOCELL image sensors is just another way the company is constantly endeavoring to provide users with pro-grade mobile photography solutions. Take a look at the video below to see the uncompromising Smart-ISO Pro technology in action.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced four new Samsung ISOCELL image sensors for its 0.7 micrometer (μm)-pixel product lineup; 108-megapixel (Mp) ISOCELL HM2, 64Mp ISOCELL GW3, 48Mp ISOCELL GM5 and 32Mp ISOCELL JD1. With the new 0.7μm ISOCELL technology, Samsung plans to expand the ultra-high-resolution offerings to mainstream smartphones.

“Samsung continues to pioneer innovations, such as ISOCELL Plus and Smart ISO, to deliver more pixels in a smaller package,” said Yongin Park, executive vice president of the sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “Last year, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 0.7μm-pixel image sensor and the first 108Mp sensors. Now we are bringing more of the advanced pixel technologies to mobile cameras in a variety of options that will enable high-resolution images and sleeker designs in a wider selection of tomorrow’s mobile devices.”

For ultra-high-resolution image sensors, even a mere 0.1μm-difference per pixel can have a significant impact on the overall size of the sensor as well as the height of the camera module. With pixels at 0.7μm, Samsung’s newest image sensors are up to 15-percent smaller than the 0.8μm sensors of the same resolution and reduce the height of the camera module by up to 10 percent. Smaller form factors give smartphone manufacturers more flexibility, such as added features or more streamlined designs, when developing their next-generation devices.

To collect an ample amount of light and increase the full well capacity despite the minute pixel sizes, Samsung has incorporated its advanced ISOCELL Plus and Smart-ISO technologies, especially optimized for 0.7μm. ISOCELL Plus retains the received light with a wall-like structure around the pixel while Smart-ISO makes full use of the incoming light by intelligently adjusting the ISO accordingly for optimal exposure.

In the latest 0.7μm products to be introduced later this year, Samsung will start rolling out an enhanced pixel technology, ISOCELL 2.0, which allows excellent performance despite the challenges with decreasing pixel sizes. The new technology further enhanced the wall structure between cells, resulting in added light sensitivity of up to 12 percent compared to the current ISOCELL Plus technology.

The New 0.7μm Lineup;

• ISOCELL HM2 is Samsung’s third 108Mp image sensor following the HMX and HM1. The new 108Mp-sensor is around 15-percent smaller than the 0.8μm-based predecessors, and reduces the height of the camera module by 10 percent. The HM2 features Super PD, a faster and more effective phase detecting auto focus solution, and like the HM1, comes with a nine-pixel binning technology as well as 3x lossless zoom.

• ISOCELL GW3 is a 64Mp-image sensor optimized for mainstream devices. Thanks to the smaller pixel size, the GW3’s optical size is nearly identical to that of Samsung’s 0.8μm 48Mp image sensor. In addition to Tetrapixel** and Smart-ISO technologies that help the sensor take bright images with high color fidelity, the GW3 is ideal for active lifestyles, featuring gyro-based electronic image stabilization (EIS) for sharper still photos and steadier videos. The image sensor supports video recording at up to 4K resolution at 60 frames-per-second (fps).

• ISOCELL GM5 is a versatile 48Mp-image sensor designed for use in telescoping or ultra-wide angle cameras. When used as a 5x optical telescoping sensor for folded-zoom, the GM5 takes full advantage of the compact 0.7μm pixel size that minimizes the camera bulge. For ultra-wide shots, the GM5 supports high-speed full-HD recording at 480fps. The sensor also offers a staggered-HDR feature, a faster and more power-efficient HDR technology that expedites image processing by sending a readout of long, medium, and short exposures of each row of pixels respectively to the mobile processor. As the readout is performed based on Tetrapixel’s 1.4μm two-by-two pixels, rather than at the individual 0.7μm-pixel level, staggered-HDR can provide brighter and clearer images with less noise.

• ISOCELL JD1 is the industry’s smallest 32Mp-image sensor at 1/3.14-inches, making it an ideal solution for smartphones with bezel-less displays that incorporate a hole-in-active-area or motorized pop-up mechanism for the front-facing camera. Even with 32-million pixels to capture a highly detailed selfie, the camera sits comfortably under the display as the height of the sensor’s camera module is comparable to those of 0.9μm 20Mp or 1.0μm 16Mp sensors. Like the GM5, the JD1 is also the one the first ISOCELL image sensors to offer staggered-HDR.

Samsung ISOCELL HM2, GW3 and JD1 are currently in mass production, and the company is sampling GM5.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color crosstalk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0um-pixel image sensor in 2015 and a 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. In June 2018, Samsung introduced an upgraded pixel isolation technology, the ISOCELL Plus.

** Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced Samsung ISOCELL GN1, a new 50-megapixel (Mp) image sensor with large 1.2μm-sized pixels. The ISOCELL GN1 is Samsung’s first image sensor to offer both Dual Pixel and Tetrapixel* technologies. Thanks to the relatively larger pixel size, the GN1 brings image sensor performance to a new level with a combination of elevated light sensitivity for stellar low-light photos and DSLR-level auto-focus speeds, optimized for more dynamic picture-taking experiences.

“With innovative pixel technologies, Samsung has been at the forefront of offering high-performance image sensors that closely cater to increasingly diversifying market needs. The ISOCELL GN1 is part of that commitment to deliver stunning images to consumers in any environment,” said Yongin Park, executive vice president of sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue to introduce image sensor solutions at the cutting-edge that will lead the next trends in mobile photography.”

Creating desirable images is an indispensable element for today’s smartphone users who are well accustomed to visually grasping and cherishing special moments, wherever they are. To address various imaging preferences of the users, some smartphone makers put more emphasis on extremely detailed images with ultra-high resolutions, while some choose bigger pixels for bright results in low-light environments. The new Samsung ISOCELL GN1 fulfills these multiple needs at once with Dual Pixel and Tetrapixel technologies.

The GN1 brings best-in-class auto-focusing with 100 million phase detection auto-focus (PDAF) agents. Samsung’s Dual Pixel technology places two photodiodes side-by-side within a single pixel that can receive light from different angles for phase detection. With all of the sensor’s active pixels working as auto-focusing agents, the GN1 can detect and focus onto a desired still or moving object from every corner in an instant, even in low-light conditions. When capturing images, a single pixel output is created by merging the outputs from the two photodiodes within the pixel. Samsung also provides a software algorithm that takes light information from each photodiode to produce image resolutions comparable to 100Mp.

For ultimate low-light photography, the GN1 adopts Tetrapixel technology, a pixel-merging technique that improves the pixels’ capacity to capture and process more light. By binning four pixel signals into one, Tetrapixel doubles the image sensor’s pixel size to 2.4μm and quadruples the light sensitivity to take brighter 12.5Mp photographs. With improved light sensitivity combined with a powerful auto-focusing solution, the GN1 is able to focus on an object quickly even in extreme low-light environment to deliver both brighter and sharper results.

In addition to Dual Pixel and Tetrapixel technologies, the GN1 comes with Smart-ISO that intelligently selects the optimal ISO, real-time HDR that captures the scene in multiple exposures simultaneously, and gyro-based electronic image stabilization (EIS) that takes sharp images and video even when in motion. For premium video quality, the image sensor supports video recording at up to 8K resolution at 30 frames-per-second (fps).

Samsung ISOCELL GN1 started mass production this month.

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022.

Yongin Park, EVP, Head of Sensor Business Team, System LSI Business

Taking pictures or videos throughout the day has become part of our normal lifestyles and no longer done just to capture special events. Whip out your mobile camera to immortalize a delectable-looking meal, to record your latest dance moves, or even just when you’re having a good hair day, and you’re ready to share your images with friends right away. These seamless experiences have become possible thanks to remarkable advancements in recent mobile photography, and at the very heart of this revolution is the mobile chips that transform light into digital data – image sensors.

The image sensors we ourselves perceive the world through – our eyes – are said to match a resolution of around 500 megapixels (Mp). Compared to most DSLR cameras today that offer 40Mp resolution and flagship smartphones with 12Mp, we as an industry still have a long way to go to be able to match human perception capabilities.

Simply putting as many pixels as possible together into a sensor might seem like the easy fix, but this would result in a massive image sensor that takes over the entirety of a device. In order to fit millions of pixels in today’s smartphones that feature other cutting-edge specs like high screen-to-body ratios and slim designs, pixels inevitably have to shrink so that sensors can be as compact as possible.

On the flip side, smaller pixels can result in fuzzy or dull pictures, due to the smaller area that each pixel receives light information from. The impasse between the number of pixels a sensor has and pixels’ sizes has become a balancing act that requires solid technological prowess.

Cutting-Edge Pixel Technologies

Drawing from the technology leadership and experience our memory business possesses, Samsung has been managing to expertly navigate this balance in our image sensors. In May 2019, we were able to announce the industry’s first 64Mp sensor, and just six months later, brought 108Mp sensors to the market.

For our latest 108Mp image sensor, the ISOCELL Bright HM1, we implemented our proprietary ‘Nonapixel* technology,’ which dramatically increases the amount of light absorption pixels are capable of. Compared to previous Tetrapixel* technology which features a 2×2 array, the 3×3 pixel structure of Nonapixel technology allows, for instance, nine 0.8μm pixels to function as one 2.4-μm pixel. This also mitigates the issue raised by low-light settings where light information is often scarce.

In 2019, Samsung was also the first to introduce image sensors based on 0.7μm pixels. The industry had considered 0.8μm as the smallest possible size pixels could be reduced to, but to our engineers, ‘technological limitations’ are just another challenge that motivates their innovation.

Sensors that Go Beyond Our Senses

Most cameras today can only take pictures that are visible to the human eye at wavelengths between 450 and 750 nanometers (nm). Sensors able to detect light wavelengths outside of that range are hard to come by, but their use can benefit a wide range of areas. For example, image sensors equipped for ultraviolet light perception can be used for diagnosing skin cancer by capturing pictures to showcase healthy cells and cancerous cells in different colors. Infrared image sensors can also be harnessed for more efficient quality control in agriculture and other industries. Somewhere in the future, we might even be able to have sensors that can see microbes not visible to the naked eye.

Not only are we developing image sensors, but we are also looking into other types of sensors that can register smells or tastes. Sensors that even go beyond human senses will soon become an integral part of our daily lives, and we are excited by the potential such sensors have to make the invisible visible and help people by going beyond what our own senses are capable of.

Aiming for 600Mp for All

To date, the major applications for image sensors have been in the smartphones field, but this is expected to expand soon into other rapidly-emerging fields such as autonomous vehicles, IoT and drones. Samsung is proud to have been leading the small-pixel, high-resolution sensor trend that will continue through 2020 and beyond, and is prepared to ride the next wave of technological innovation with a comprehensive product portfolio that addresses the diverse needs of device manufacturers. Through relentless innovation, we are determined to open up endless possibilities in pixel technologies that might even deliver image sensors that can capture more detail than the human eye.

* Technological terms of “Nonapixel” and “Tetrapixel” were updated in July 2022.

Accordingly, Samsung has released its 108-megapixel (Mp) ISOCELL Bright HMX, the industry’s first mobile image sensor to exceed 100 million pixels. Boasting a resolution similar to that of a medium format expert-grade camera, this new image sensor not only enables the user to capture extremely sharp photos, but also allows them to do so in a wide range of adverse lighting conditions. Check out the video below to see the ISOCELL Bright HMX’s features and user benefits in-depth.

Bringing Professional-grade Quality to the Smartphone Camera

Following in the footsteps of Samsung’s expansion of its 0.8μm image sensor range, the ISOCELL Bright HMX delivers 108Mp – 108 million effective pixels – in each individual image. This pixel-count allows the camera to deliver extremely well-defined images that remain sharp even when zoomed in or cropped. The image sensor achieves this by utilizing 0.8μm-sized pixels, and is the first mobile image sensor in the industry to feature a larger 1/1.33-inch size. These features enable the ISOCELL Bright HMX to absorb more light in low-lit environments, allowing the sensor to ‘see’ more when formulating a photograph. In better-lit conditions, having a high-quality image sensor allows for sharper textures and better overall color accuracy.

Samsung’s ISOCELL Plus technology is another key component underpinning the ISOCELL Bright HMX. This advanced pixel isolation technology minimizes optical loss and prevents each 0.8μm pixel from being contaminated by the colors of the ones adjacent to it. Placing a barrier around each pixel, this technology represents a vast improvement on the previous backside illuminated (BSI) sensors, which were susceptible to quality degradation due to pixel crosstalk. Engineers also tried introducing a physical barrier between neighboring pixels, isolating them and allowing more light to be gathered by the micro-lens and absorbed by the photodiode, but this also led to optical loss. ISOCELL Plus technology replaces a metal barrier with an innovative new material that minimizes optical loss and light reflection. It also allows the photodiode to absorb more light, resulting in superb pixel performance, even with smaller pixel sizes.

The evolution of Samsung’s ISOCELL Plus pixel isolation technology

Sensor Technology for Best Performance in All Lighting Conditions

When pixels receive light information, that information is then subjected to analog gain or signal amplification before being converted into a digital signal by the analog digital convertor (ADC). ‘Native ISO’ is the baseline setting that a camera is set to that allows it to get the most detail out of an image, deviation from which can result in unwanted amplification or reduction of the sensor’s sensitivity to light. But with just a single native ISO, over-amplification can occur when conditions are very bright and unwanted noise can appear when an environment is low-light.

With the ISOCELL Bright HMX, Samsung has created a solution to mitigate these issues by incorporating Smart-ISO technology (including one low and one high amplification ISO) into the new mobile image sensor. The inclusion of this technology allows the sensor to intelligently select amplification levels according to how the scene is lit, optimizing light-to-electric signal conversation and making cameras more versatile across a range of lighting environments.

Notably, Samsung’s ISOCELL Bright HMX helps users manage the age-old question in photography of – how best to capture photographs in low-light conditions. While taking pictures with smaller pixels allows for better resolution, utilizing larger pixels is the best way to improve the sensor’s ability to absorb light. Thus, it has been necessary to find some kind of middle ground in which good quality photos can be captured in poorly lit environments. That’s where Samsung’s Tetrapixel* Technology comes in. In the ISOCELL Bright HMX, an advanced algorithm rearranges pixels according to lighting condition, merging clusters of four pixels into single pixels and allowing 0.8μm pixels to be transformed into 1.6μm ones. Even after merging of pixels, by having over 100 million pixels to start with, ISOCELL Bright HMX still ensures incredibly high 27Mp resolutions for great low-light photography.

As well as offering users advanced lighting condition management technology, the ISOCELL Bright HMX also features Super-PD autofocus for fast and accurate autofocus capabilities. Users can capture crisp, clear photos with precise focus of both still and moving objects, even in low-light environments.

Conventional autofocus capabilities require the processor to find the areas of highest contrast and employ a trial and error method to achieve an optimal focus. However, phase detection autofocus enabled by Super-PD technology means that mobile image sensors which feature PD pixels can quickly calculate how far away an object is and automatically optimize focus for the shot.

With the low-light, bright-lit and auto-focused movement photography capabilities offered by the ISOCELL Bright HMX image sensor, users will be able to capture those special moments in outstanding quality, no matter what the conditions may be.

For more information on how the ISOCELL image sensors are empowering users to capture moments with near-true-to-life mobile photography, check out the video below:

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced the industry’s first 0.7-micrometer (μm)-pixel image sensor, the 43.7-megapixel (Mp) Samsung ISOCELL Slim GH1. Thanks to advanced ISOELL Plus technology, the new ultra-high-resolution GH1 image sensor embraces 43.7-million 0.7μm-sized pixels in a super-small package, providing the optimum solution for slim full-display devices.

“Samsung has been stepping up in pixel technology innovation from the industry’s first 1.0μm-pixel image sensor, to most recently, 0.8μm ultra-high-resolution sensors at 64Mp and 108Mp,” said Yongin Park, executive vice president of the sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “We are pleased to deliver yet another breakthrough with the industry’s first 0.7μm pixel image sensor, the ISOCELL Slim GH1 that will enable sleeker and more streamlined designs as well as excellent imaging experiences in tomorrow’s smartphones.”

The ISOCELL Slim GH1 is the industry’s first mobile image sensor to adopt the smallest pixel size in the industry at 0.7μm. By utilizing ISOCELL Plus, Samsung’s latest pixel isolation technology that minimizes color cross-talk and optical loss, the tiny 0.7μm pixels are able to absorb sufficient light information to produce bright and vivid photographs. In low-light environments, the GH1 makes use of pixel-merging Tetrapixel* technology that enables higher light sensitivity equivalent to that of a 1.4μm-pixel image sensor.

For video recording at 4K (3,840×2,160) resolutions, the ISOCELL Slim GH1, with a high resolution of 7,968×5,480, is able to take 4K videos with minimum loss in field of view (FoV), while most high-resolution image sensors crop or scale down full image resolutions that result in a reduced FoV. Using Tetrapixel technology, the GH1 is converted down to 3,984×2,740, a resolution that snugly covers the 4K (3,840×2,160) resolution, allowing users to capture more detailed backgrounds when recording high-resolution videos or selfies at 60T frames per second (fps).

For sharper photographs and video, the GH1 supports a gyro-based electronic image stabilization (EIS) and a high-performing phase detection auto-focus technology, Super PD, allowing fast and accurate autofocus. In addition, the real-time high dynamic range (HDR) feature delivers more balanced exposure and richer color even in mixed-light environments.

The Samsung ISOCELL Slim GH1 is expected to be in mass production by the end of this year.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color cross-talk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0um-pixel image sensor in 2015 and a 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. In June 2018, Samsung introduced an upgraded pixel isolation technology, the ISOCELL Plus.

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced two new 0.8-micrometer (μm) pixel image sensors – the 64-megapixel (Mp) Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 and 48Mp ISOCELL Bright GM2. With the addition, Samsung expands its 0.8μm image sensor lineup, the smallest pixel size currently available in the market, from existing 20Mp to ultra-high 64Mp resolutions.

“Over the past few years, mobile phone cameras have become the main instrument for recording and sharing our everyday moments,” said Yongin Park, executive vice president of sensor business at Samsung Electronics. “With more pixels and advanced pixel technologies, Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 and GM2 will bring a new level of photography to today’s sleekest mobile devices that will enhance and help change the way we record our daily lives.”

ISOCELL Bright GW1 is a 64Mp image sensor that features the highest resolution in Samsung’s 0.8μm-pixel image sensor lineup. With pixel-merging Tetrapixel technology^** and remosaic algorithm^***, GW1 can produce bright 16Mp images in low-light environments and highly-detailed 64Mp shots in brighter settings. To take pictures resembling the way the human eye perceives its surroundings in a mixed light environment, GW1 supports real-time high dynamic range (HDR) of up to 100-decibels (dB) that provides richer hues. In comparison, the dynamic range of a conventional image sensor is at around 60dB, while that of the human eye is typically considered to be around 120dB.

GW1 is equipped with a Dual Conversion Gain (DCG) that converts the received light into an electric signal according to the illumination of the environment. This allows the sensor to optimize its full well capacity (FWC), utilizing the collected light more efficiently especially in bright environments. Sharper results can be delivered through Super PD, a high-performance phase detection auto-focus technology, and full HD recording at 480 frames-per-second (fps) is supported for smooth cinematic slow motion videos.

ISOCELL Bright GM2 is a 48Mp image sensor that also adopts Tetrapixeltechnology in low-light environments and a remosaic algorithm in well-lit settings, bringing highly-detailed pictures with natural and vivid colors. GM2, like GW1, adopts DCG as well for added performance and Super PD for fast autofocus.

Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 and GM2 are currently sampling and are expected to be in mass production in the second half of this year.

^*Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color-cross talk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0um-pixel image sensor in 2015 and 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. In June 2018, Samsung introduced an upgraded pixel isolation technology, the ISOCELL Plus.

^**Tetrapixel technology merges four pixels into one so that users can achieve high quality images in all light conditions.

^***In bright environments, Tetrapixel uses a re-mosaic algorithm to produce full resolution images.

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced its smallest high-resolution image sensor, the ISOCELL Slim 3T2. While being the industry’s most compact image sensor at 1/3.4 inches (approximately 5.1-millimeters diagonally), the 0.8μm-pixel ISOCELL Slim 3T2 delivers 20-megapixel (Mp) resolution for both front and back cameras in today’s sleekest mid-range smartphones.

“The ISOCELL Slim 3T2 is our smallest and most versatile 20Mp image sensor that helps mobile device manufacturers bring differentiated consumer value not only in camera performance but also in features including hardware design,” said Jinhyun Kwon, vice president of System LSI sensor marketing at Samsung Electronics. “As the demand for advanced imaging capabilities in mobile devices continue to grow, we will keep pushing the limits in image sensor technologies for richer user experiences.”

With 20-million active 0.8μm-sized pixels, the ISOCELL Slim 3T2 not just provides excellent clarity and detail. It also offers high color fidelity by adopting Samsung’s ISOCELL Plus technology that enables sensors to capture and absorb more light information for accurate color reproduction even with sub-micrometer-sized pixels.

In order to support smartphones with the latest display features such as the ‘hole-in display’ or ‘notch design,’ front-facing image sensors need to minimize their size while being able to capture high-quality images. The 1/3.4-inch 3T2 snuggly fits into a tiny module making more space for the display. In addition, Samsung’s Tetrapixel* technology, which merges four pixels to work as one, lets the 3T2 take brighter and sharper pictures in low-light settings as the color filter array’s light sensitivity increases to that of a 1.6μm-pixel image sensor at 5Mp resolution.

When applied in rear-facing multi-camera settings for telephoto solutions, the 3T2 adopts an RGB color filter array instead of Tetrapixel technology. The small size of the image sensor also reduces the height of the tele-camera module by around seven percent when compared to Samsung’s 1/3-inch 20Mp image sensor, allowing more elegant smartphone designs. Compared to a 13Mp sensor with the same module height, the 20Mp 3T2 retains 60-percent higher effective resolution at 10x digital zoom that presents clearer and more accurate results.

The Samsung ISOCELL Slim 3T2 is expected to be in mass production in the first quarter of this year.

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022

“Demand for ultra-small, high-resolution image sensors are growing as smartphones evolve to deliver new and more exciting camera experiences for users,” said Ben K. Hur, vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “With the introduction of our cutting-edge 0.8μm-pixel Samsung ISOCELL Bright GM1 and GD1 image sensors, we are committed to continue driving innovation in image sensor technologies.”

As cameras are becoming a key distinguishing feature in today’s mobile devices, smartphone makers are faced with the challenge to fit multiple cameras into the sleek designs of their latest flagships. At a reduced pixel size, the new sensors provide greater design flexibility, enabling camera module manufacturers to build smaller modules or pack more pixels into existing designs, and consequently allowing smartphone makers to maximize space utilization in slim, bezel-less smartphones.

The GM1 and the GD1 sensors are based on the company’s latest pixel isolation technology – the ISOCELL Plus* – which optimizes performance especially for smaller-dimension pixels, making them the ideal solution for today’s super-resolution cameras. In addition, thanks to Tetrapixel** technology, where four pixels are merged to work as one to increase light sensitivity, the GM1 and GD1 can deliver light sensitivity equivalent to that of a 1.6μm-pixel image sensor at 12Mp and 8Mp resolution, respectively. The sensors also support Gyro-based electronic image stabilization (EIS) for fast and accurate image capture.

A real-time high dynamic range (HDR) feature is added to the GD1 to deliver more balanced exposure, richer color and detail when filming selfie-videos or streaming live video content even in low-light, high-contrast environments.

The Samsung ISOCELL Bright GM1 and GD1 are expected to be in mass production in the fourth quarter of this year.

* Samsung first announced its ISOCELL technology in 2013, which reduces color-cross talk between pixels by placing a physical barrier, allowing small-sized pixels to achieve higher color fidelity. Based on this technology, Samsung introduced the industry’s first 1.0um-pixel image sensor in 2015 and 0.9-pixel sensor in 2017. In June 2018, Samsung introduced an upgraded pixel isolation technology, the ISOCELL Plus.

** Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022

“Samsung’s new automotive brand solutions, Exynos Auto and ISOCELL Auto, bring Samsung’s market-proven technologies to automotive applications with enhanced features and durability required by the market,” said Kenny Han, vice president of Samsung’s Device Solutions Division. “With fast telecommunication, accurate sensing and powerful processing capabilities, Samsung’s Auto-branded solutions will enable new driving experiences to next-generation smart vehicles.”

Exynos Auto Logo (top) and ISOCELL Auto Logo

Samsung’s Exynos processors have been recognized for their performance and stability since its brand launched in 2011. On top of the powerful yet efficient qualities of Exynos’ mobile versions, Exynos Auto meets industry requirements for harsher environments, allowing automotive manufacturers to develop cutting-edge applications such as infotainment, advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) and telematics.

Processors provided by Exynos Auto are sorted into three sub-categories: Exynos Auto V series for advanced in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems; Exynos Auto A series for ADAS; and Exynos Auto T series for telematics solutions.

Samsung’s ISOCELL image sensors have brought innovative imaging technologies to mobile products since 2017 and the new automotive lineup will help bring the power of sight to cars. Built on the company’s innovative pixel isolation technology, ISOCELL, the sensors provide greater visibility of the road and surroundings even in low-light environments, while enabling more precise identification of objects. This allows, for example, vehicles to perceive road conditions or potential hazards even when driving through tunnels or other high-contrast environments. 

Samsung’s Exynos Auto and ISOCELL Auto products will be demonstrated at the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfburg, Germany, from October 16 to 18 at Hall 1.  

For more information please visit the below sites;

– Exynos Auto: https://www.samsung.com/semiconductor/minisite/exynos/application/automotive/

– ISOCELL Auto: https://www.samsung.com/semiconductor/image-sensor/automotive-image-sensor/

To take high-quality photographs, CMOS image sensors need to hold as much light, or photons, as possible and transmit the right color information to the photodiode. Such requirements were resolved by the introduction of Samsung’s ISOCELL technology in 2013. ISOCELL forms a physical barrier between the neighboring pixels, reducing color crosstalk and expanding the full-well capacity. This enables each pixel to absorb and hold more light than the conventional backside-illuminated (BSI) image sensor design for superior image quality.

With the introduction of ISOCELL Plus, Samsung pushes pixel isolation technology to a new level through an optimized pixel architecture. In the existing pixel structure, metal grids are formed over the photodiodes to reduce interference between the pixels, which can also lead to some optical loss as metals tend to reflect and/or absorb the incoming light. For ISOCELL Plus, Samsung replaced the metal barrier with an innovative new material developed by Fujifilm, minimizing optical loss and light reflection.

“We value our strategic relationship with Samsung and would like to congratulate on the completion of the ISOCELL Plus development,” said Naoto Yanagihara, corporate vice president of Fujifilm. “This development is a remarkable milestone for us as it marks the first commercialization of our new material. Through continuous cooperation with Samsung, we anticipate to bring more meaningful innovation to mobile cameras.”

The new ISOCELL Plus delivers higher color fidelity along with up to a 15-percent enhancement in light sensitivity. The technology also enables image sensors to equip 0.8-micrometer (µm) and smaller-sized pixels without any loss in performance, making it an optimal solution for developing super-resolution cameras with over 20 megapixels.

“Through close collaboration with Fujifilm, an industry leader in imaging and information technology, we have pushed the boundaries of CMOS image sensor technology even further,” said Ben K. Hur, vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “The ISOCELL Plus will not only enable the development of ultra-high-resolution sensors with incredibly small pixel dimensions, but also bring performance advancements for sensors with larger pixel designs.”

The ISOCELL Plus will be showcased at the Mobile World Congress Shanghai, held from June 27 to 29.

With its decades-long technology innovation and expertise, Samsung Electronics’ Device Solutions Division provides an extensive range of semiconductor and LED solutions to meet the ever-increasing requirements of the mobile industry. While not always visible to end users, Samsung’s component solutions have been utilized comprehensively to raise the level of what’s possible for mobile devices, and help enable a world of difference in performance and user experience.

Here, we go under the hood, to take a look at some of these solutions.

Leading-edge Processor and Memory Solutions for a Seamless User Experience

One prime example of Samsung’s component innovation is the Exynos 9 Series 9810 processor, built upon the company’s latest 2^nd generation 10-nanometer LPP process technology. The processor delivers powerful mobile computing performance with its 3^rd generation CPU and seamless connectivity with a 6-mode/all network supporting 1.2Gbps DL 6CA Cat.18 LTE modem.

Working in tandem with the Exynos processor is the LPDDR4X memory chip, the industry’s most up-to-date mobile DRAM solution that provides breakthrough RAM performance and energy efficiency. Available in a compact package offering up to 8-gigabyte (GB) capacity, the LPDDR4X enables prompt multitasking and data processing for advanced mobile applications such as 4K UHD video recording and virtual computing.

Also, under today’s heavy multimedia and content use environment, users can safely store their valuable data on Samsung eUFS, an embedded high-speed mobile storage solution for flagship devices. Based on Samsung’s proprietary V-NAND technology, the eUFS features ultrafast data read and download speeds as well as abundant storage capacity as high as 512GB.

Enhanced Imaging and Video Features

The Samsung ISOCELL Fast 2L3, a 3-stack fast readout image sensor with an embedded 2Gb LPDDR4 memory, enables significantly enhanced mobile imaging and video functionality with the ability to record at 960fps for brand new features like stunning slow-motion video shooting. Also among Samsung’s broad image sensor lineup is a front-facing ISOCELL Bright image sensor, which enables high-quality selfies on mobile devices even in very low light settings, using leading-edge pixel technologies.

In addition, Samsung’s Patterned Lens-Integrated Flash LED component, positioned next to the rear camera, enhances the quality of images even further with its high luminous intensity and uniformity.

Reinforced Security, Power and Touch Command Management 

Samsung continues to reinforce security, power, and touch command management on mobile devices through an array of component solutions. For example, its new iris sensor enables a fast yet highly secure option to unlock or authorize application access, and the touch controller enables instant feedback at the tap of one’s finger. Last but not the least, Samsung’s power management IC delivers a stable supply of power, supporting devices to perform with optimal energy efficiency.

As mobile devices continue to evolve, Samsung Electronics’ Device Solutions Division will remain committed to developing and providing its customers with semiconductor and LED technology with distinct value, and providing the best in performance, capacity, functionality and energy efficiency.

“Samsung’s ISOCELL image sensors have made great leaps over the generations, with technologies such as ISOCELL for high color fidelity and Dual Pixel for ultra-fast autofocusing, bringing the smartphone camera ever closer to DSLR-grade photography,” said Ben K. Hur, vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “With an added DRAM layer, Samsung’s new 3-stack ISOCELL Fast 2L3 will enable users to create more unique and mesmerizing content.”

Conventional image sensors are constructed with two silicon layers; a pixel array layer that converts light information into an electric signal, and an analog logic layer that processes the electric signal into digital code. The digital code is then sent via MIPI interface to the device’s mobile processor for further image tuning before being saved to the device’s DRAM. While all these steps are done instantaneously to implement features like zero-shutter lag, capturing smooth super-slow-motion video requires image readouts at a much higher rate.

Delivering an advanced solution, the Samsung ISOCELL Fast 2L3 is a high speed 3-stack CMOS image sensor designed with the company’s two-gigabit (Gb) LPDDR4 DRAM attached below the analog logic layer. With the integration, the image sensor can temporarily store a larger number of frames taken in high speed quickly onto the sensor’s DRAM layer before sending frames out to the mobile processor and then to the device’s DRAM. This not only allows the sensor to capture a full-frame snapshot at 1/120 of a second but also to record super-slow motion video at up to 960 frames per second (fps). With 960fps recording, which is 32 times the typical filming speed (30fps), recording moments such as a child hitting his or her first game-winning homerun, a baby taking his or her first step, or a friend doing a gazelle flip on a skateboard becomes much more dramatic.

In addition to super slow motion video, fast readout can hugely enhance the photography experience. Since the sensor captures an image at very high speeds, it significantly reduces the ‘jello-effect,’ or image distortion, when taking a picture of fast-moving objects, for example helicopter rotor blades. By storing multiple frames in the split of a second, the sensor can support 3-Dimensional Noise Reduction (3DNR) for clearer pictures when shooting in low-light, as well as real time high-dynamic-range (HDR) imaging, and detect even the slightest hint of movement for automatic instant slow-motion recording.

The image sensor is also equipped with Dual Pixel technology, which allows each and every one of the 12-million pixels of the image sensor to employ two photodiodes that respectively work as a phase detection auto-focus (PDAF) agent. With ultra-fast auto-focus in any lighting condition, it will be harder to miss capturing important moments before they pass by.

The Samsung ISOCELL Fast 2L3 is currently in mass production.

“Dual cameras are delivering new and exciting photo-taking experiences on mobile devices,” said Ben K. Hur, vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s total solution for ISOCELL Dual will make our customers’ product development process easier, allowing them to bring the most optimized dual camera features to a wider range of consumers.”

Dual camera smartphones have two image sensors that capture different light information, enabling new features like refocusing and LLS. With these benefits, dual cameras are a growing trend in premium mobile devices. However, integrating dual cameras can be a difficult process for original equipment manufacturers (OEM), as it requires time-consuming optimization between the OEMs and different vendors developing the sensors and algorithm software. Samsung’s total dual camera solution will simplify that process and enable mid- to entry-level mobile devices to take advantage of certain camera features mainly available in premium devices equipped with an extra image signal processor.

To accelerate development and reduce optimization difficulties with dual camera smartphones, Samsung now offers the industry’s first total dual camera solution, with both ISOCELL Dual sensor hardware and sensor-optimized algorithm software. This enables even mid- to entry-level mobile devices to utilize popular dual camera features like refocusing and LLS. Samsung is coupling its refocusing algorithm with a 13 megapixel (Mp) and 5Mp set of image sensors, and its LLS algorithm with a set of two 8Mp sensors, to simplify implementation by OEMs.

Samsung Electronics, a global leader in technology, today announced that 36 of its latest products have been recognized as CES®2018 Innovation Awards winners. Products awarded in this prestigious program are honored for outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics technology across 28 product categories.

Samsung’s award-winning products include two Best of Innovation and span categories across Virtual and Augmented Reality, Wearable Technologies, Video Displays, Home Appliances, and Smart Home. This marks the first year where Samsung has won in the CES Innovation Award category of Fitness, Sports and Biotech for the Gear Sport, Gear Fit2 Pro, and Gear IconX (2018).

“Innovation is in our DNA, as is our commitment to delivering transformational products that create meaningful experiences for our consumers,” said Tim Baxter, President and CEO, Samsung Electronics North America. “To be recognized by our industry peers, year over year, for our relentless pursuit of innovative design and engineering is truly an honor.”

The CES Innovation Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the owner and organizer of CES. Many of Samsung’s industry recognized products will be on display at CES 2018, which takes place January 9-12, 2018, in the Samsung booth (#15006) located in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Following are details on a selection of Samsung’s award-winning products:

Gear Fit2 Pro – The new Gear Fit2 Pro features combines built-in GPS tracking with new continuous heart rate monitoring and powerful Under Armour applications to capture every run or ride accurately. With 5ATM water resistance, it allows users to withstand the pool, rain and even a post-workout shower. For added comfortability and convenience, the Gear Fit2 Pro has a slim design and light weight band, as well as a high-resolution color touchscreen that makes real-time updates and notifications easy to read while on the move.

Gear Sport – The latest smartwatch in Samsung’s industry-leading wearable portfolio, the Gear Sport is a stylish blend of fitness tracking and smart capabilities for people with active lifestyles. The Gear Sport transitions easily from work to workout with swim-ready water resistance (5ATM) and all-day fitness and calorie tracking. And with smart features like Samsung Pay (NFC), IOT control, and even offline music playback with Spotify, the Gear Sport is ready for whatever the day has in store.

Gear IconX (2018) – The new Gear IconX 2018 empowers users to effortlessly listen to their favorite music. Whether commuting or at the gym, these powerful cord-free headphones let users stream music via Bluetooth for up to 5-hours and play favorites from their MP3 playlist for up 7-hours. In addition to a 10-minute quick charge feature giving one hour of playtime, users can use the earbuds as an activity tracker and make voice commands through Samsung Bixby or Google Voice on your phone without even having it in your hand.

Samsung HMD Odyssey – In partnership with Microsoft, the Samsung HMD Odyssey offers an immersive Windows Mixed Reality experience. With dual 3.5-inch AMOLED high-resolution displays, 110-degree field of view, AKG head-headphones and voice command activation, the HMD Odyssey takes consumers to entirely new virtual limits.

Galaxy Note8 – The Galaxy Note8 features a bigger 6.3-inch Infinity Display so consumers can view more and scroll less. The enhanced S Pen¹ allows users to unlock new ways to write, draw and interact with the phone and communicate with others, including taking Screen off memos, creating a Live Message² and multitasking on the go. It also offers Samsung’s best-ever smartphone camera featuring two 12MP rear cameras and the world’s first smartphone with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on both wide-angle and telephoto lenses.

Galaxy S8 and S8+ – The Galaxy S8 and S8+ push the boundaries of traditional smartphones and build on Samsung’s heritage of creating stunning designs and functional devices. Available in 5.8-inch Galaxy S8 and 6.2-inch Galaxy S8+, the Infinity Display and bezel-less design form a smooth, continuous surface with no buttons or harsh angles. The result is a truly immersive viewing experience without distractions and makes multi-tasking more convenient.

49” CHG90 Gaming Monitor – With a 32:9 aspect ratio and curved display, this groundbreaking, ultra-wide monitor fully immerses the user in gameplay, delivering cinematic viewing for all types of content. The CHG90 supports AMD’s Radeon FreeSync 2 technology for a smoother gaming experience with twice the perceivable brightness and color. The monitor also features stunning visuals powered by High Dynamic Range (HDR) picture-enhancement technology, which, when paired with Samsung’s QLED Quantum Dot technology, dramatically improves picture quality with crisper colors and sharper contrast.

Samsung Connect Home Pro – The industry’s first Smart Wi-Fi System to combine mesh networking technology with a SmartThings Hub, Samsung Connect Home Pro opens up new possibilities for users to better connect their devices and easily manage their home networks. It delivers the ultimate, optimized Wi-Fi signal for the home while giving users the power to manage their smart home devices all from a single, secure network.

Samsung Chef Collection (4 Honoree Awards)  – Merging elegant design and industry-leading technology, Samsung’s new Chef Collection line brings Samsung’s most innovative and popular home appliance features to the premium built-in category. Chef Collection reflects the aspirations of this new generation of state-of-the-art homeowners who look to the kitchen not just as a room to cook in, but as a sophisticated reflection of who they are. Samsung Chef Collection is honored with four 2018 CES Innovation Honoree Awards for the Chef Collection 30” Pro Range, the Chef Collection 30” Built-In Combi Oven, the Chef Collection 36” Gas Cooktop and the Chef Collection 30” Double Wall Oven.

Samsung 16Gb GDDR6 Memory – The fastest and lowest-power DRAM for next generation, graphics-intensive applications. It processes images and video at 16Gbps with 64GB/s data I/O bandwidth, which is equivalent to transferring approximately 12 full-HD DVDs (5GB equivalent) per second. The new DRAM can operate at 1.35 volts, offering further advantages over today’s graphics memory that uses 1.5V at only 8Gbps.

Samsung 8TB NGSFF NVMe SSD (PM983) – The first 8 terabyte “next-generation form factor” SSD dramatically improves the storage capacity and performance of 1U rack servers (highly popular in consumer electronics). The 64 8TB NGSF SSD can deliver I/O at a phenomenal 0.5 petabytes per second. Measuring only 30.5mm x 110mm x 4.38mm, the drive also improves space utilization and scaling options in hyper-scale datacenter servers.

Exynos 9 Series 9810 The Exynos 9 Series 9810 is Samsung’s latest flagship processor, with 3rd-generation custom CPU cores, upgraded GPU, and gigabit LTE modem with industry-first 6CA support. It is built on 2nd generation 10nm process technology.

Samsung ISOCELL Slim 2X7 – Samsung ISOCELL Slim 2X7 is a 24 megapixel image sensor with 0.9μm pixels, the smallest pixel in the industry, plus Tetrapixel* and remosaic technology to simulate bigger pixel performance. The small 0.9μm pixel size enables a 24Mp image sensor to be fitted in a thinner camera module, allowing premium smartphones to offer high resolution cameras in a very slim and elegant design.

¹ Compared to Galaxy Note5 S Pen

² GIFs created may not be supported by some social media and messaging services depending on the size and length of the GIFs

* Technological term of “Tetrapixel” was updated in July 2022

Under the slogan, “Leading the way, shaping the future,” Samsung offered insight on the latest global trends within the industry as well as the company’s vision and strategy for India’s dynamic mobile landscape.

The mobile ecosystem in India has been experiencing unprecedented development within the past few years and market demand for value-added products has increased sharply. Through its second SMSF India event, Samsung continues to recognize the opportunities that India brings and the potential the market holds.

“India is witnessing an extraordinary digital communication revolution with growth prospects never seen before, and Samsung is thrilled to catalyze this change by providing total technology solutions to our customers,” said Haejin Park, Vice President and Head of Device Solutions in Southeast Asia, Samsung Electronics. “We are very proud of where we are today and excited about where we are headed.”

Samsung’s branded image sensor ISOCELL® was highlighted at the event with demos for its technological sub-brands—Bright, Fast, Slim and Dual—that meet diverse needs of cameras for today’s mobile applications. The brand is named after the company’s own image sensor technology that allows high color fidelity and excellent image quality even with smaller pixels. Samsung’s advanced semiconductor solutions also on display included near field communication (NFC) mobile payment solution, touch controller supporting force home key feature, LPDDR4-based mobile DRAM, and T5 portable solid state drive (SSD).

Following its first components forum in India, the Samsung Image Sensor Forum (2015), Samsung reinforced its presence the next year through the Samsung Mobile Solutions Forum India, presenting a comprehensive lineup of its leading mobile component solutions.

More than 200 industry professionals ranging from mobile manufacturers and OEM (original equipment manufacturer) companies, to design engineers and researchers for mobile devices and technologies attended the forum.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today introduced its image sensor brand ‘ISOCELL^®’ as well as demonstrated leading-edge solutions at the 2017 Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai.

Samsung’s brand for its image sensor lineup is named after the company’s own ISOCELL technology, which is the optimum solution for today’s devices that require ultra-slim designs with high quality cameras. First introduced in 2013, ISOCELL technology separates each pixel with a physical barrier that reduces color crosstalk among pixels. This allows high color fidelity, enabling excellent image quality even with smaller pixels.

Samsung ISOCELL is underlined by four technological sub-brands—Bright, Fast, Slim and Dual—that respond to specific market demands:

• ISOCELL Bright sensors deliver bright and sharp images with high color fidelity and reduced noise in low light environments
• ISOCELL Fast sensors provide fast autofocus onto still or moving objects even when dark
• ISOCELL Slim sensors adopt the smallest pixel sizes available in the market at 0.9-1.0um, yet produce high quality images for the slimmest devices
• ISOCELL Dual sensors can be mixed and matched in various combinations on consumer devices to bring about features demanded in the latest dual camera trend

“Samsung ISOCELL is a brand that represents the essence of our leading pixel technologies. We expect the ISOCELL brand to help consumers easily acknowledge and confide in camera performance as well as overall quality of the device,” said Ben Hur, Vice President of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “With our advanced image sensor technologies, Samsung will continue to bring innovation to cameras used in smartphones and other applications.”

At MWC Shanghai, Samsung will be featuring advanced logic solutions, including the Exynos 9 series with 10-nanometer FinFET process technology, for a wide range of platforms such as mobile, Virtual Reality (VR) and wearable devices.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, announced its newest 12 megapixel (Mp) image sensor for smartphones, which will elevate the quality of mobile phone pictures. Already in mass production, this 1.4μm-pixel-based image sensor is equipped with Dual Pixel technology that has been reserved for DSLR cameras. The technology enables rapid auto-focus for fast photo shooting while producing premium image quality on mobile devices, even in low light situations.

“With 12 million pixels working as a phase detection auto-focus (PDAF) agent, the new image sensor brings professional auto-focusing performance to a mobile device,” said Ben K. Hur, Vice President of Marketing, System LSI Business at Samsung Electronics. “Consumers will be able to capture their daily events and precious moments instantly on a smartphone as the moments unfold, regardless of lighting conditions.”

Samsung’s new image sensor with Dual Pixel technology employs two photodiodes located on the left and right halves of a pixel, while a conventional image sensor dedicates less than five percent of its pixels, with one photodiode each that converts light particles into measurable photocurrent for phase detection. As each and every pixel of the Dual Pixel image sensor is capable of detecting phase differences of perceived light, significantly faster auto-focus has become possible. With such groundbreaking improvements, the image sensor ensures clear and sharp images especially for moving objects even in poor lighting conditions.

The image sensor has also adopted Samsung’s ISOCELL technology, which isolates the photodiodes in each pixel with a physical wall to further reduce color cross talk, maximizing the image sensor’s performance.

For top-of-the-line performance while keeping the size to a minimum, the new image sensor is built with cutting-edge chip-stacking technology. The Dual Pixel image sensor stacks a 65 nanometer (nm) sensor and 28nm logic chip together to deliver outstanding photo-taking experiences in today’s sleek smartphones.

As mobile devices get thinner, the components inside them must scale down, too. Samsung’s latest chip, the 1.0μm-pixel-based 16 megapixel (MP) CMOS image sensor, did exactly that. It brings high resolution imaging to one of the slimmest smartphones in the market.

Image sensors hold an array of pixels, or pockets that collect light particles called photons. Better the image sensor, the more light it accurately captures through its pixels, which it then converts into electrical signals. Therefore, more pixels that are larger in size allow for better picture quality.

Slimmer devices have less space for interior components, so pixels get smaller as well, making the absorption of photons much more complicated. To continue to achieve high-resolution imaging, the solution thus far has been to maximize the photon absorption of each pixel. When it comes to the limitations due to scaling, however, this method still faces a number of challenges. The pixels’ sensitivity to light may decrease while loose photons create crosstalk that causes noise.

Samsung introduced ISOCELL technology in 2014 which reduces crosstalk of photons between pixels by 30 percent and has a 20 percent wider chief ray angle, allowing pixels to collect more light so as to capture colors more precisely.

The 1.0μm-pixel-based image sensor measures only about 5mm high, roughly 20 percent thinner than the previous 1.12μm model and offers comparable image quality. Device manufacturers now have more flexibility in designing products that are sleek and stylish and capable of taking high resolution, share-worthy photos.

Read more about ISOCELL technology:

Samsung Announces Mass Production of Industry’s First Mobile Image Sensor with 1.0μm Pixels

Samsung Explains ISOCELL CMOS Image Sensors

Get the Big Picture: CMOS Image Sensors and ISOCELL

Samsung’s Semiconductor Series Part 2

Read Part 1 

Semiconductors have been in a race to drive up both product performance and process manufacturing efficiency. Enter the mobile era, the market clamored for smaller and more powerful devices that would make the most out of their battery life. As the inside of such devices became prime real estate, components had to follow suit.

The convention was to shorten the distance between the circuitry. That means faster data transfers that require less energy, has more compact configurations and yet has the same capacity became possible. Fabrication productivity also got a boost as technology generations progressed.

While market needs catalyzed innovation and aggressive scaling in semiconductors, bringing digital experiences into the palms of our hands, chip fabrication methods quickly ran into a whole bunch of walls—or the lack of them. With details shrinking down to the billionth of a meter, it came to a point where traditional materials wouldn’t work anymore, electric charges started leaking and signals were getting crosstalk. In other words, scaling down the technology any further would gravely compromise the information being stored or waste the energy being consumed.

Our engineers couldn’t really defy the laws of physics. But they were able to bring about new designs and fabrication expertise in semiconductor technology that opened up meaningful opportunities for the industry.

14nm FinFET AP (application processor) – A warm and gooey marshmallow between two graham crackers is good enough as it is but if you make your s’more ‘denser,’ the crackers are brought closer together and the marshmallow gets squished up. That’s kind of what happened with the channel structures of transistors for FinFET. And no, the channel did not ooze out.

In February, we came out with the industry’s first mobile application processor (AP) based on advanced 14nm FinFET technology. By raising a ‘fin’ over the conducting channel and wrapping it over with the gate, the new structure addresses the problems of current leakage, or short-channel effect, that comes with finer technologies, while demonstrating greater power advantages and performance levels over our previous 20nm process technology. With our 14nm FinFET AP out in the hands of consumers, we’re staying busy prepping for 10nm FinFETs and beyond.

Read more: Samsung Announces Mass Production of Industry’s First 14nm FinFET Mobile Application Processor

20nm DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) – For decades, the semiconductor industry had followed the pattern of doubling the density of ICs (integrated circuit) every two years. But delivering new technology refined enough for mass production got painstakingly harder. Due to limitations especially in the current technology of drawing crazy-thin lines, namely the lithography process, the 25nm design rule is where the industry thought to be the limit for DRAMs. It had been so for nearly two years. We were stuck.

Then, in 2014, came a breakthrough. Bleeding-edge methods such as modified double patterning and atomic layer deposition were introduced, heralding the arrival of the industry’s first 20nm DRAM. Contrary to common belief, we were able to utilize existing lithography tools, keeping costs viable as well. Not only was this a major breakthrough, but it also paves the way for sub-20nm nodes. We are currently the only manufacturer with this technology and are offering a full DRAM lineup for PC and enterprise systems as well as mobile device customers.

Read more: Samsung Electronics Starts Mass Production of Industry’s First 8-Gigabit Mobile DRAM

3D V-NAND (NAND flash memory) – Let’s say you have a single-story dormitory that you sectioned off for a number of occupants. You needed to accommodate more people, so rooms got smaller and the walls thinner. But tiny dorm rooms with thin walls are no fun at all. So what do you do? You build a skyscraper instead and give each of your tenants the entire floor, of course. All of a sudden, you don’t have to be fighting for space anymore and even better, everybody’s happy and much more productive. Voilà, 3D V-NAND flash memory.

Samsung is the first and still is the only company providing V-NAND products, which feature vertically stacked NAND flash cells. The technology marks a major milestone in memory technology as it overcomes the scaling limitations for conventional 2D planar structures, as well as drastically mitigating development time and resources. Even the first generation V-NAND demonstrated at least twice and up to ten times the reliability while also doubling its write performance. And don’t worry; a few dozen additional cell layers won’t affect the thickness of the final chip at all. Our second generation V-NAND products have also been very well received in the market, especially for applications in today’s SSDs that are equipped for the most demanding tasks.

Read more: Now I know my three-bit three-dee vee-nand ess-ess-dee [Editorial]

ISOCELL (CMOS image sensors) – Between pixel size and image quality, there always was a delicate balance to maintain. A good image sensor will capture as much light, or photons, as possible, as accurately as possible through individual pixels within the sensor array. Theoretically, more pixels and larger sensor size would guarantee better picture qualities. However, we’re living in a mobile world. Since smaller pixel sizes come at the expense of the amount of light received, increasing the light sensitivity of each pixel has been the focus of image sensor development so far. Another problem with size; as pixels got packed closer together, photons that had been absorbed would wander into adjacent cells, making pictures blurry or diminishing color fidelity.

Introduced in 2014, our proprietary solution, ISOCELL, was to form a physical barrier between neighboring pixels so that more light is absorbed into the pixels correctly. This results in sharper and richer picture quality. The walls also create a wider chief ray angle (CRA) that reduces the height of the module. In other words, the pixels can afford to be less deep since they can capture those little photons hitting the pixel at a wider angle that would otherwise wander off to the pixel next door. All of these qualities make ISOCELL image sensors ideal for today’s compact devices.

Read more: Get the Big Picture: CMOS Image Sensors and ISOCELL