Sony has unveiled the Lytia 910, its first LOFIC image sensor, where "LOFIC" stands for "Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor." This innovative design addresses the problem of photodiode saturation by positioning a capacitor adjacent to each photodiode, which significantly enhances the full well capacity for each pixel.
The Lytia 910 boasts an impressive dynamic range of 100dB from a single exposure. In contrast, previous models like the Lytia 901 required multiple exposures to achieve the same dynamic range.
This sensor also features Triple Conversion Gain (TCG) HDR technology, which captures each pixel three times using low, mid, and high conversion gains. The results are then combined into a single HDR image, effectively minimizing issues related to motion artifacts commonly found in multi-frame HDR methods. Consequently, this makes the Lytia 910 an excellent choice for capturing 4K 60fps HDR video, while also being less prone to flicker from artificial light sources, making it ideal for automotive camera applications.
Additionally, it incorporates Ultra High Conversion Gain circuits, which activate in low-light conditions. Sony claims that these circuits can reduce random noise by approximately 30% compared to their earlier sensor models.
The Lytia 910 is a compact 1/1.28” sensor, featuring a resolution of 50MP and utilizing a Quad Bayer filter, with individual pixel dimensions of 1.22µm x 1.22µm.
Mass production of this sensor is set to commence this summer, suggesting that smartphones featuring the Lytia 910 could debut in the fourth quarter of this year.
Interestingly, the Lytia 910 is not Sony's first LOFIC sensor; the Honor Magic6 Ultimate was equipped with a 50MP LOFIC sensor from OmniVision back in 2024. Similarly, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra also features the Light Fusion 1050L, another 50MP LOFIC sensor from OmniVision.
In recent rumors, it has been reported that the vivo X500 Pro Max may utilize this newly launched 50MP 1/1.28” LOFIC sensor. Additionally, Samsung is exploring LOFIC technology, with potential integration into the upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra. Notably, leaker Digital Chat Station previously hinted at a forthcoming 1/1.3” LOFIC sensor from Sony.
