Sony strengthening its own CMOS manufacturing operations

It looks like the previously low-lying race to cram CMOS sensors into a broader lineup of digital cameras just got a bit more noticeable, as Sony is tooting its own horn by announcing a ¥60 billion ($490.4 million) investment to "strengthen its CMOS sensor manufacturing operations." More specifically, the firm is hoping to "provide growth markets such as mobile phones and digital still cameras with CMOS sensors," and judging by all the work that has gone on of late in these very areas, we'd say something major could be on the horizon. Interestingly, DPReview noted that this very information has been quietly residing on Sony's webpage for some time, but we can only assume that Canon's recent announcement persuaded Sony to bring it to the forefront. Ah, semiconductor manufacturers battling it out -- now that's entertainment.

[Thanks, Will]

[CowboyGA @ Jul 18th 2007 8:29AM]

You mean I can finally get a quality (non-pinhole lens) camera-phone that doesn't cost $600, and it will only take a couple of more years?

We still have a long wait, but I'll be happy to see the low quality 1.3 megapixel shots improve.

[Robert Barnes @ Jul 18th 2007 9:37AM]

This is happening while leading CMOS image sensor producer Micron is looking to get out of CMOS image sensors?

[craig @ Jul 18th 2007 10:09AM]

They are investing in new manufacturing capability, not in denying the laws of physics.