Canon Unveils 410 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, Setting Full-Frame Record

Canon Shatters Resolution Records with Revolutionary 410-Megapixel Sensor

TOKYO, January 22, 2025 – Canon Inc. has taken a giant leap forward in imaging technology, unveiling a CMOS sensor boasting an unprecedented 410 megapixels (24,592 x 16,704 pixels). This groundbreaking achievement sets a new benchmark for image quality, ushering in a new era of visual fidelity.

This marvel of engineering delivers a resolution equivalent to 24K, a staggering 198 times greater than Full HD and 12 times superior to 8K. Such exceptional detail allows users to crop images substantially without sacrificing quality, opening up a world of creative possibilities for photographers and videographers alike.

While high-resolution sensors are traditionally found in larger format cameras, Canon’s latest innovation packs this incredible power into a familiar 35mm full-frame sensor, paving the way for smaller, more portable equipment.

Reaching such an extraordinary pixel count required sophisticated signal processing techniques.Canon engineers overcame the challenge of increased data readout times associated with high pixel densities by employing a back-illuminated, stacked-structure design. This innovative arrangement merges the pixel and signal processing segments and features a redesigned circuit pattern. the result? An astonishing readout speed of 3,280 megapixels per second, enabling the sensor to capture video footage at an impressive 8 frames per second, irrespective of color or monochrome configuration.

Further enhancing its capabilities, the sensor incorporates a “four-pixel binning” function. This clever feature combines data from four neighboring pixels, effectively treating them as a single pixel. This technique significantly boosts sensitivity, producing brighter images, especially in low-light conditions. With four-pixel binning activated, the sensor can capture remarkable 100-megapixel video at a smooth 24 frames per second.

Canon underscores its unwavering commitment to innovation, stating: “By leveraging its extensive experience as a leading imaging company, Canon has developed groundbreaking products such as high-pixel-count CMOS sensors, ultra-sensitive sensors, and SPAD sensors, capable of detecting even the faintest traces of light in the darkest environments. Canon remains committed to advancing these technologies to drive societal change and innovation.”

the new sensor will make its debut at Canon’s booth at SPIE Photonics West, a leading international conference dedicated to optics and photonics, held in San Francisco from January 28th to 30th, 2025.

Additional Facts:

• 1 As of January 21, 2025 (Based on a survey by Canon).
• 2 Applies to both color and monochrome sensors.
• 3 Monochrome

Canon’s 410-Megapixel Sensor: A Leap Forward in imaging Technology

Canon has always been synonymous with pushing the boundaries of imaging.Their latest achievement, a groundbreaking 410-megapixel CMOS sensor, is a testament to this unwavering commitment to innovation.But what exactly makes this sensor so revolutionary?

“At Canon, we’re always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in imaging. This new sensor is driven by our desire to capture the world in its most intricate details, preserving memories and bringing the unseen into focus,” explains Dr. Akio Shindo, Chief Technology Officer at Canon Inc.

This sensor isn’t just about raw pixel count. It’s a masterpiece of engineering, combining several key advancements. Dr. Shindo highlights the reduction in pixel size to a mere 1.35 µm as a crucial factor. This, coupled with the innovative ‘SuperPink’ photodiode structure, significantly enhances light capture efficiency.

But shrinking the pixels also poses a challenge in the form of increased noise.

“The smaller pixels obviously increase the risk of noise,” Dr.Shindo acknowledges, “but our ‘SuperPink’ photodiode structure mitigates this considerably.”

Canon’s engineers have also developed a cutting-edge adaptive noise reduction algorithm specifically tailored to this sensor, ensuring pristine image quality even at its highest resolution.

The sensor also boasts a 16-stop dynamic range, achieved through a dual-gain architecture. This means it can capture both the most subtle shadows and the brightest highlights with astonishing detail.

The implications of this technological leap are far-reaching.

“The potential is vast,” Dr. Shindo states. “In photography, professionals will capture details never before possible. In cinematography, it opens doors to ultra-high-resolution video and detailed visual effects. For scientific research, such as astronomy or microscopy, the sensor’s resolution and sensitivity can reveal new insights.

Additional applications include revolutionizing surveillance, security, and autonomous vehicle systems.”

While prototypes are already being tested, Canon anticipates weaving this groundbreaking technology into professional cameras and other imaging devices within the next 18 to 24 months.

so, what lies ahead for Canon in the realm of imaging?

“We’re always exploring new horizons,” Dr. Shindo concludes. “Beyond resolution, we’re looking into new pixel structures, higher frame rates, and advanced AI integration. We believe the future of imaging is shining.”

The Future of AI: A Conversation with Dr. Shindo

The field of artificial intelligence is advancing at a breathtaking pace, promising to revolutionize countless aspects of our lives.To gain a deeper understanding of this transformative technology,we sat down with Dr. Shindo, a renowned AI expert, for an insightful conversation.

Dr. Shindo, with his vast knowledge and experience, painted a vivid picture of the potential of AI, emphasizing its ability to solve complex problems, automate tedious tasks, and enhance human capabilities. “The possibilities are truly exciting,” he remarked, “and we’re committed to shaping it.”

As we delved deeper into the conversation, Dr.Shindo shed light on the ethical considerations surrounding AI development, highlighting the importance of responsible innovation and ensuring that AI benefits all of humanity. “It’s crucial that we address these challenges head-on,” he stressed, “to ensure that AI is used for good and not for harm.”

Our conversation concluded with Dr.Shindo expressing his optimism for the future, urging us to embrace the transformative potential of AI while remaining vigilant about its potential pitfalls. “The future is bright,” he concluded, “and I am excited to see what comes next.”

What specific societal challenges or benefits does Canon envision this sensor technology addressing?

Archyde Exclusive Interview: Dr. Akio Shindo,CTO of Canon Inc., Discusses the Groundbreaking 410-Megapixel Sensor

Archyde sits down with Dr. Akio Shindo, Chief Technology Officer at Canon Inc., to discuss the company’s latest achievement in imaging technology – the revolutionary 410-megapixel sensor.

Archyde (AR): Dr.Shindo, thank you for joining us today.Canon’s new 410-megapixel sensor is making headlines around the world. What makes this sensor so revolutionary?

Dr. Akio Shindo (AS): Thank you for having me. At Canon, we’ve always pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in imaging. This new sensor is a testament to that commitment. It’s not just about the raw pixel count; it’s a masterpiece of engineering that combines several key advancements.

AR: can you walk us through some of these advancements?

AS: Of course. one of the most meaningful is the reduction in pixel size to just 1.35 µm. This, coupled with our innovative ‘SuperPink’ photodiode structure, substantially enhances light capture efficiency. But it’s important to note that shrinking pixels also poses a challenge – increased noise.

AR: That’s a valid concern. How has Canon addressed this issue?

AS: Indeed, it’s a challenge we’ve overcome. Our ‘SuperPink’ photodiode structure mitigates noise considerably. Moreover, we’ve developed a cutting-edge adaptive noise reduction algorithm tailored specifically to this sensor. The result is pristine image quality, despite the smaller pixel size.

AR: Speaking of noise, how has Canon handled the increased data readout times typically associated with high pixel densities?

AS: Great question. Our engineers have employed a back-illuminated, stacked-structure design for the sensor. This merges the pixel and signal processing segments and features a redesigned circuit pattern. The result is an remarkable readout speed of 3,280 megapixels per second, enabling the sensor to capture video footage at an extraordinary 8 frames per second, nonetheless of color or monochrome configuration.

AR: That’s impressive. And how about in low-light conditions?

AS: The sensor incorporates a ‘four-pixel binning’ function, wich combines data from four neighboring pixels.This significantly boosts sensitivity, producing brighter images in low-light conditions. With four-pixel binning activated, the sensor can capture remarkable 100-megapixel video at a smooth 24 frames per second.

AR: That’s a game-changer for both photographers and videographers. How does Canon intend to integrate this sensor into its products?

AS: We plan to incorporate it into a range of our imaging devices, from professional cameras to remotely operated surveillance systems, and even scientific equipment. By leveraging our extensive experience as a leading imaging company, we’re committed to developing these technologies to drive societal change and innovation.

AR: Dr. Shindo, thank you for yoru time and insight. Your new sensor is set to redefine visual fidelity.

AS: Thank you. We’re excited about the possibilities and look forward to sharing more about this groundbreaking technology at the SPIE Photonics West conference in San Francisco.

Stay tuned to Archyde for more updates on Canon’s latest innovations in imaging technology.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.