In this exclusive interview with OMNIVISION, we dive into the cutting-edge advancements in image sensing technology, with a particular focus on their TheiaCel™ product family and its role in shaping the future of the automotive industry.
OMNIVISION has introduced new sensors, including the high-performance X12A, designed specifically for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. Featuring LED flicker mitigation, enhanced low-light performance, and HDR capabilities, these sensors are critical for improving safety and performance in next-gen vehicles. Join us as we explore how these innovations are set to redefine the landscape of automotive imaging.
Last year OMNIVISION launched TheiaCel Technology, which led to an extension to its product family. Could you introduce some of them?
This year, we’ve expanded our TheiaCel™ family with the introduction of two new sensors, the X12A and X3H, alongside the previously announced X8D and X5D. The X12A is a 12MP sensor, the X8D is 8MP, and the X5D is 5MP. Each of these sensors incorporates advanced LOFIC and DCG™ HDR technology, which eliminates LED flicker and broadens the dynamic range, enhancing performance in various lighting conditions. The X5D, for example, delivers high LED flicker mitigation without sacrificing image quality, and it retains all the essential features automotive OEMs demand, such as excellent low-light performance, compact size, and low power consumption. The X8D shares these attributes but offers a different pixel size and, thanks to TheiaCel™, can capture HDR images at distances up to 200 meters—ideal for exterior automotive camera applications.
The 12MP OX12A10 is our first sensor to feature OMNIVISION’s a-CSP+™ package technology, making it the highest resolution sensor in our 2.1-micron TheiaCel™ product family. It combines high resolution, excellent low-light capability, and efficiency, making it perfect for machine vision cameras in next-gen ADAS and autonomous driving. Meanwhile, our 5MP and 8MP sensors are tailored for mainstream vehicles, providing customers with a range of options to meet their specific needs.
The X3H is OMNIVISION’s first 3.0-micron pixel automotive sensor featuring TheiaCel™ technology, delivering exceptional clarity in all lighting conditions for surround and rear-view cameras. It offers superior LED flicker mitigation and low-light performance with a 140dB dynamic range and is compatible with the OX03F10 for easy upgrades.
Can you introduce X12A?
Our X12A is the first high-performance 12MP sensor for the automotive industry. It’s the first of its kind, delivering enhanced resolution and image quality, no matter the lighting conditions. This makes it especially ideal for front-facing machine vision cameras in advanced driver assistance systems, or ADAS, as well as autonomous driving. With its high resolution, outstanding low-light performance, LED flicker mitigation, and a compact, power-efficient design, the X12A is built for the future of automotive safety and innovation.
How is X12A different from other last generation products in the market?
The difference is, X8D and X5D are the products mainstream passenger vehicles looking for, while X12A is designed for high-performance front machine vision cameras for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving (AD)
Why do you think high-resolution image sensors are important in automotive industry?
We see trends in the automotive industry to improve resolution in image sensors because those high MP sensors can significantly enhance both viewing and sensing capabilities. With the increasing number of automotive applications requiring higher volumes of imaging data, these sensors play a key role in helping ADAS systems make safety-critical decisions. For example, in high-performance front cameras, the clarity and detail provided by high-resolution sensors are essential for accurately detecting and interpreting the environment, ultimately contributing to safer and more reliable driving experiences.
Has the X12A already been deployed in the automotive industry? And when is it expected to reach mass production?
We are announcing our partnership with Cruise for our 12MP sensor. Cruise is looking for cutting-edge technology in the field of autonomous driving. Our X12A can be a good fit to make Cruise’s ADAS driving experience safer and more sustainable by leveraging its high resolution, superior low-light performance, and LED flicker mitigation (LFM) capabilities. X12A is now sampling and will be in mass production in Q3, 2025.
