(Image source from: Gsmarena.com)

Sony is reportedly working on a new, larger camera sensor that is expected to be a key feature in upcoming high-end smartphones, according to information from a reliable source. This new sensor is anticipated to rival the Samsung ISOCELL HP9, which is already utilized in models like the Vivo X200 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. The rumored Sony sensor is believed to serve as the primary camera and may debut in flagship devices slated for release later this year. The tipster, Digital Chat Station, shared insights on this potential sensor via a post on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. Reports suggest that Sony plans to incorporate this new sensor in smartphones powered by upcoming flagship chipsets, including the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 and the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, and it may also feature in one of its own innovative devices.

This sensor is expected to exceed 1/1.3-inch in size, indicating a capacity for capturing more light compared to the Samsung ISOCELL HP9, which has a 1/1.4-inch optical format. Currently, the Vivo X200 Pro employs the Samsung sensor as a telephoto lens, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra uses it as its main camera sensor. The introduction of this Sony sensor may present a significant enhancement for many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), who could upgrade from the commonly used 50-megapixel sensors found in a range of premium smartphones. However, specific details regarding the features of the Sony sensor have not yet been disclosed. Notably, the Samsung sensor supports in-sensor zoom of up to 4x while preserving photo clarity. Samsung claims it has an advanced AI Remosaic technology that enhances processing speeds, detail retention, and color accuracy, alongside rapid shutter speeds. Furthermore, it incorporates hardware-independent Single Frame HDR for improved overall HDR performance.