First Sony curved sensor camera coming at Photokina 2014

Sony is allegedly preparing the launch of its first curved sensor camera. The new compact camera will sport a 2/3-inch-type curved image sensor and will be announced at Photokina 2014.

An innovative curved image sensor technology was introduced by Sony in mid-June. The Japan-based manufacturer has announced two curved sensor models, a 35mm full frame version and a 2/3-inch-type version.

This sensor technology has been leaked several times in the form of patents. It has taken a while to become official, but Sony has confirmed that these sensors are ready for mass-production, while hinting that devices powered by such sensors are on their way.

Recently, the rumor mill has hinted that the Sony RX1s will become world’s first digital camera with a curved image sensor. However, it seems like another compact model will take this title at the Photokina 2014, courtesy of a 2/3-inch-type curved sensor.

Sony curved sensor camera rumored to be unveiled at Photokina 2014

Sony’s first curved sensor camera will feature a 20mm lens (35mm equivalent) with a maximum aperture of f/1.2.

The specs list of the first Sony curved sensor camera will include a 22-megapixel 2/3-inch-type sensor with a lens that will provide a 35mm focal length equivalent of 20mm.

The lens will feature a maximum aperture of f/1.2. Another important aspect consists of its dimensions, as it will measure only 6mm in thickness and will employ a filter diameter of 24mm.

The optical design of the lens will consist of four elements split in two groups, including an Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) element. This is one of the advantages of a curved sensor: the lenses do not have to compensate for optical flaws, so their design will be simpler, while their dimensions will be smaller.

It will become one of the most compact cameras on the market and it will be unveiled at the Photokina 2014.

Sony’s first camera with a curved sensor will feature same signal-to-noise ratio as the Canon 5D Mark III

Sony curved sensor camera will offer a signal-to-noise ratio similar to the Canon 5D Mark III camera.

According to the leaked specs, the Sony curved sensor camera will feature a dynamic range of 10.8-stop at an ISO sensitivity of 640. Moreover, its signal-t0-noise ratio (SNR) will stand at 41.1dB at an ISO sensitivity of 400, which puts it on par with the impressive Canon 5D Mark III.

The image quality provided by a curved sensor-powered camera is said to be astonishing. Sony will once again revolutionize the digital imaging market after launching mirrorless cameras with full frame sensors and lens-style cameras that can be attached onto smartphones during the second half of 2013.

This sounds very promising, but we will have to wait until world’s largest digital imaging event to find out the full details. Stay tuned to Camyx to grab all the information as it happens!