Apple has invented a camera lens that would yield higher-resolution images and would be even tinier than the cameras used in today’s super-slim iPhones.
How tiny would it be? Imagine a total axial length of just 2 mm or even less, making this potentially perfect for the long-awaited FaceTime camera of the next-gen Apple Watch 2.
The invention is detailed in an Apple patent published today. It describes a small-form-factor camera system based on a spherically curved photo sensor plus new lens. This curved lens would result in the “capturing [of] sharp, high-resolution images” through a special three-lens system that uses two convex lenses supplemented by a third meniscus lens — with both convex and concave surfaces — in the middle.
Apple notes that one of the downsides to its invention is that images could include barrel distortion effects. To counter this, it suggests that a distortion-correction algorithm could be applied with software to correct the image once it’s taken.
As with every patent, there’s no guarantee this technology will show up in a future device, although as always it’s good to know that Apple keeps pushing the boundaries with its tech. With rumors of a FaceTime camera set to arrive with the Apple Watch 2 this year, 2016 may be the year Apple wows the world with one of the smallest, highest-quality cameras you’ve ever seen.
Source: USPTO
Via: Patently Apple
Luke Dormehl is a U.K.-based journalist and author, with a background working in documentary film for Channel 4 and the BBC. He is the author of The Apple Revolution and The Formula: How Algorithms Solve All Our Problems … and Create More, both published by Penguin/Random House. His tech writing has also appeared in Wired, Fast Company, Techmeme and other publications.
7 responses to “Curved photo sensor could lead to tiny Apple Watch camera”
A camera in the watch sounds so stupid to me. Even just a FaceTime camera. No, especially a FaceTime camera!
I think a lot of vlogers would disagree. Most of them walk around holding a camera or phone at head height, so what’s the difference?
Not that ‘vloggers’ is a huge market for the Apple Watch, but I guarantee you, if Apple were to put a FaceTime camera in the next watch it would be at the bottom of the list of preferred options for anyone wanting to record themselves. Price being a main reason, but not being able to aim it elsewhere without breaking your arm would be a deal breaker too.
I could see using it with my wife who FT’s me at random times with the kids or when shopping, but again, it’s not a need. Also, I can ONLY imagine what this would do to the battery.
Well, that’s a different use case than vlogging. And still not a good enough reason to add a camera. Especially considering, as you say, battery life.
I agree 110%. Let’s stop slapping cameras on everything, especially on devices that require all the help they can get to increase battery life. FaceTime is great, but use your phone for it.
Spherically curved sensors have been pursued for more than ten years now.