STMicroelectronics Develops Miniature Camera Modules

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor company, is working in partnership with researchers at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh to develop the next generation of mobile phone cameras.

In a £2 million project, the partnership aims to design and develop innovative new miniature camera modules which include auto focus and zoom capabilities, but very few moving parts.

The project is being supported by an R&D Plus grant from Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian and confirms STMicroelectronics’ Edinburgh R&D facility as a world-leading location for the development of cutting-edge mobile phone camera technology.

ST is the world’s leading manufacturer of CMOS image-sensor modules for wireless phones and currently holds 16% of the camera phone market.
According to Mr Graham Townsend of STMicroelectronics the mobile phone camera market is constantly evolving in response to demand for higher quality images and better technology. Substantial growth is expected for next generation camera units.