Sony’s new imaging sensor for smartphones could be a game changer for shutterbugs

Sony announced a new imaging sensor today that the company says will improve smartphones cameras. The Exmor RS IMX230 is a stacked CMOS sensor that packs 21-megapixels into a small 1/2.4-inch design. One of the key talking points of Sony’s new chip is its 192 point phase detection autofocus, which makes it easier to shoot photos or video of a fast moving subject with your smartphone.

Sony’s new hardware also supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging for high-resolution photos and 4K video recording. This functionality will help shutterbugs capture better results in backlit environments. While Sony has its own line of smartphones and tablets, the company’s sensors are also used in multiple mobile devices, including Apple’s iPhone and multiple Android handsets. We’re pretty sure the Japanese electronics maker will use this new tech with its Xperia platform, but we wouldn’t be surprised if it showed up in other gear as well.