STMicroelectronics (Nachrichten/Aktienkurs), a world leader in CMOS imaging technology and the largest supplier of camera modules for mobile phones in

STMicroelectronics (Nachrichten/Aktienkurs), a world leader in CMOS imaging technology and the largest supplier of camera modules for mobile phones in 2005*, has introduced its latest single-chip 1.3-Megapixel (SXGA) camera subsystem for high-volume mobile applications. Integrating a CMOS sensor with a digital image processor and analog system functions in a tiny package, ST's VS6624 meets customer requirements for cost-effective, all-in-one mobile imaging solutions with maximum design-in flexibility."ST's vertically integrated supply chain, unique in this market, allows us to control all steps in the design and manufacturing process, resulting in highly optimized cost and excellent image quality," said Jean-Yves Gomez, Group Vice President and General Manager of ST's Imaging Division. "Our latest all-in-one SXGA camera module benefits from ST's advanced optical packaging, world-class image processing, and System-on-Chip integration expertise."The VS6624 camera module integrates a 1/3.7-inch optical-format sensor with an active pixel array of 1280 x 1024 (SXGA), using ST's advanced 3.0 µm pixel design. ST's latest developments in pixel defect correction, sharpness enhancement, gamma correction, and color space conversion ensure that the embedded Image Signal Processor (ISP) delivers outstanding picture quality. Advanced anti-vignetting algorithms and automatic white-balance control support top-notch color rendition in varying light conditions.The device produces an industry-standard digital video stream at full SXGA resolution at up to 15 frames per second (fps), while its fully flexible image-scaling capability optimizes data for display in non-native resolution settings. The VS6624 also offers a low-power video mode, supporting 30 fps at VGA resolution.The VS6624 couples excellent image quality with small space requirements and high integration flexibility. It is housed in a tiny 8 x 8 x 6 mm Small Optical Package (SmOP2), with footprint further reduced by embedding passives in the module. To enable the best fit for their end application, customers can choose between a flex-cable package and a tape-and-reel variant, compatible with a range of industry-standard hardware sockets.In addition to mobile phones, the VS6624 camera module can be used in a wide range of portable devices such as PDAs, mobile gaming platforms, and videophones.

Camera Phones will soon peak

Phones with the ability to take images, both still and video, have captured about 40% of the wireless phone market, reports In-Stat (http://www.in-stat.com). Despite the products' popularity, many camera phone users want higher resolution, the ability to use storage media, and many of the state-of-the-art features found in modern digital cameras, the high-tech market research firm says.
"These desires, plus the fact that many users already have a high-resolution digital camera, lead In-Stat to forecast that the North American market for camera and camcorder phones will peak in 2007," said Bill Hughes, In-Stat analyst.
In a companion report, In-Stat also found that dissatisfaction with picture quality is only one factor that is severely limiting sending or printing camera phone images.

Cingular 8100 / 8125 Pocket PC phones now on sale at Cingular, USA, for business customers

Cingular 8100 (without camera) and Cingular 8125 (with camera) are incarnations of HTC Wizard with external looks a bit more sharp on the edges, than other HTC Wizard phones (like i-mate JAM or T-Mobile MDA Vario). With comfy slide out keyboard, EDGE and built-in W-Fi, this phone maybe an interesting to many users in USA. While still not available for consumers, corporate customers can purchase it already in USA.

Tiny Pictures, Inc. Transforms Cameraphone Picture Sharing

Today at DEMO 2006, Tiny Pictures, Inc., announces Radar, a new mobile service that enables fast and simple sharing of cameraphone pictures among friends. The service is available for most mobile phones and computer browsers, and allows invited friends to share and comment on each other's pictures instantly.

"By dramatically improving the ease with which consumers can share pictures, and ensuring users know exactly who can see their pictures, Radar ushers in a entirely new kind of photography: not just photo sharing, but stream-of-consciousness experience sharing," said Tiny Pictures founder and CEO John Poisson, former head of mobile media research and design groups for Sony in Tokyo.
Radar allows users to share pictures with friends on any mobile network and nearly any type of device. The handset client is free and downloadable over mobile networks, and a mobile browser version is available for phones that don't support the use of third-party software applications.