Yet another addition to our “big if true” file of camera rumors we’ve seen over the years, according to reports online, Sony is currently developing a new sensor capable of recording 4K 12-bit video at up to 502 frames per second.
Yes, you read that right. And yes, this would be big if it turns out to be true. Or, not necessarily true, but if it actually makes it into a Sony Alpha series camera. Chances are, it's just for non-commercial, scientific purposes. But you never know.
Here’s what we do know so far about this exciting Sony sensor rumor.
Sony Sensor Rumors
While not necessarily a “camera” rumor at this point, because it doesn’t sound like this sensor is officially attached to any camera, or even any camera rumors specifically. Reports online indicate that the company is working on a new Type 1.8 CMOS image sensor that will leverage Pregius S global shutter technology.
The sensor, apparently called IMX949-AQB, will feature around 13 effective megapixels and can provide extremely fast motion at a resolution up to 4096 x 3072 with a deep bit depth.
The same reports again indicate that this is not currently being developed as any sort of commercial sensor for photo or video cameras. However, even if it is being developed for 3D vision cameras or other scientific purposes, it’s quite intriguing.
What Comes Next
Credit: Sony
And that’s the rub here: Sony pushing the limits of sensor technology is largely a good thing. It’s what we want the R&D departments to be doing at these major camera companies. Not only does it provide new technology that can be helpful to many different sectors, but it also pushes the ball further toward what we, as filmmakers, videographers, and hybrid content creators, will eventually get in our products.
Sony already developed global shutter technology for the a9 III, which is awesome to have available for video pros in a mirrorless camera.
Hopefully, as this technology develops, it will find its way into new cameras and products that can make an impact on filmmakers and the broader video community here soon.
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