DigitalOptics
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Oppo phone, not Nexus 5, will be first to nab DigitalOptics' speedy MEMS camera
DigitalOptics has just announced that its MEMS multi-focus camera unit will arrive first on an Oppo handset, calling reports that it might first come to a rumored LG Nexus 5 "inaccurate." It added that Oppo is an "exclusive launch partner" for now, saying the modules will arrive in its premium models at some point in the future. The Lite-on-built 8-megapixel camera module has drawn buzz thanks to its high speed focusing compared to a typical voice coil-equipped smartphone camera, enabling possibilities that are somewhat similar to Lytro image capture. If you're interested in seeing whether the reality can live up to that, however, it appears you'll have to scratch Google's next handset off your list.
DigitalOptics enlists Lite-On for MEMS camera production
Five months after DigitalOptics' memscam module showed off its Lytro-like multi-focus feature at MWC, it has a production contract. Lite-On, the company known for budget Blu-ray drives and moldable mice, plans to start production of the speedy camera part later this year and hit "high volume capacity" sometime in 2014. We left MWC impressed by the MEMS' (microelectromechanical system) 10ms settling time and are curious where this clever contraption could wind up. Speaking of which, Lite-On assures us that its "Chinese Smartphone customers" are interested.
Galaxy S 4, future Samsung devices to use DigitalOptics tech for face tracking (updated)
When Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S 4 in March, there was a near-inescapable emphasis on face detection features. What we didn't know is just whose technology was making them possible. As it happens, it's not entirely Samsung's -- DigitalOptics has stepped forward to claim some of the responsibility. The California firm recently struck a multi-year licensing deal with Samsung to supply its Face Detection and Face Tracking software, which can detect pupils for interface features (think Smart Stay or Smart Pause) and keep tabs on photo subjects. DigitalOptics hasn't provided the exact details of its involvement in the GS4, let alone a roadmap, but it's safe to presume that Samsung isn't dropping its emphasis on camera-driven software anytime soon. Update: DigitalOptics says the release wasn't clear on just what was involved in the deal: while the face detection and tracking are present, Samsung didn't pick up the pupil component. As such, you're mostly seeing DigitalOptics' influence in regular camera features and other software that doesn't involve eye tracking.
DigitalOptics' fast MEMS camera enables Lytro-like post-capture refocus (video)
Tech shows like CES and MWC are great for taking a peek at what's coming up in the world of consumer electronics, even down to the component level. At the latter show this year, we came across DigitalOptics whose name may not sound familiar, but you may already be using its HDR, red eye removal, face tracking, face beautification and other related technologies on many phones (like Oppo's) and cameras (sorry, not allowed to name them here). Now, this year the company will also be offering its MEMS (microelectromechanical system) lens actuator which, compared to its traditional voice coil counterpart, is apparently more reliable, longer lasting, more efficient and faster with a 10ms settling time instead of the usual 20 to 25ms.
