Sony today announced a new image sensor meant for smartphones: the IMX318. The 1/2.6-inch sensor has a 22.5MP resolution with an individual pixel size of 1.0um, and has been pegged as the successor to its popular IMX230 sensor.

Despite the reduced pixel and smaller sensor size, Sony boasts that the IMX318 offers improved and better image quality than the company’s previous sensors. The company has done this by using a “manufacturing technology that improves light utilisation efficiency, as well as circuit design technology that eliminates noise.”

The 22.5MP sensor is the first in the industry to come with hybrid AF that allows for autofocus times as low as 0.03 seconds. Additionally, it also comes with 3-axis electronic image stabilisation to reduce blur and further enhance image quality. This is the first stacked CMOS image sensor that comes with image stabilisation functionality built into its ISP. The 3-axis IS ensures that the camera is able to compensate for any movement in pitch, yaw and roll. In terms of video recording, the sensor is capable of recording videos at 4K resolution@30fps, 1080p @120fps and 720p@240fps.

Sony will start shipping this sensor to smartphone OEMs from May this year, which means it should start showing up in smartphones due to be released in the second half of this year.