Samsung introduces new 8- and 12-megapixel image sensors

Samsung has just come up with two new imaging sensors for smartphones and other gadgets that are touted to offer some really good low-light performance. First up is the S5K3H2, an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor that features Samsung’s advanced 1.4 micron back side illuminated pixel technology, allowing users to shoot better quality pictures despite low-light conditions. The sensor is apparently capable of offering quality on par with point and shoot digital cameras and is able to record videos at full HD resolution at 30FPS and is also power efficient, offering us longer battery life.

The other sensor is the 12-megapixel S5K3L1 that also features back side illumination and throws in an optional RGB-white color filter array to reduce the noise and make the image up to 30 percent brighter. This optional filter works in tandem with an additional logic chip that converts the RGB-white pattern to RGB Bayer. This sensor is capable of recording full 1080p HD videos at 60FPS. Both the 8-megapixel and 12-megapixel sensors will go into mass production in Q2 and Q3 respectively this year and will be showcased at Mobile World Congress next week.