Sony announces next-generation image sensors for smartphones
Sony said Monday it has developed new technology for the tiny imaging chips that power cameras in portable devices, which will allow for clearer photographs while using less space and cutting manufacturing costs.
The company said it has developed a method for building CMOS sensors, widely used in mobile phones and digital cameras, that will reduce their surface area and allow imaging circuitry to be produced separately from the supporting logic. Sony said it will also add new technology to reduce picture distortion in dark scenes and allow videos to capture a wider range of light.
Sample shipments of image sensors that use the new manufacturing method will begin from March, with mass production to start in the fall. The new imaging technologies will be introduced into broad production late this year or early next, the company said.
"Initially we will work to insure that these sensors can be used in all smartphones," said Yasuhiro Ueda, an executive in Sony's image sensor division. "After we have achieved success with phones, we are planning to expand into areas such as audio-visual products, surveillance and manufacturing." Read more...
Jobs’ ‘nuclear war’ is not doing Apple any good – analyst
Apple's patent wars will start to hurt shareholders if Apple continues to pursue its lawsuits against Samsung, HTC and Motorola, an analyst has said.
Kevin Rivette, a managing partner at 3LP Advisors LLC, told Bloomberg that even if Apple won its patent battles, it was playing a losing game. Legal fees aside, the "thermonuclear war" that Jobs launched against the Android manufacturers in a fit of rage circa 2009 isn't stamping out Cupertino's competition but the hostility engendered could stop Apple from getting access to new technology it needs. Read more...
NEC says new technology doubles lithium battery life
NEC said Monday that it has developed a new lithium-ion battery technology that doubles the life span of conventional models.
The new technology will be used in large batteries for applications such as electrical power systems in buildings and homes, where longevity is a major concern, the Tokyo-based electronics conglomerate said.
Consumers long for batteries that will increase the life of their smartphones and tablets, but a growing market also exists for larger rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in such fixed locations. Read more...