Sony Announced A 394 FPS Global Shutter Sensor


Sony Semiconductor Solutions to Release an Industrial CMOS Image Sensor with Global Shutter for High-Speed Processing and High Pixel Count Offering an Expanded, High-Precision Product Lineup Supporting Faster Recognition and Inspection
Atsugi, Japan — Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (SSS) today announced the upcoming release of the IMX925 stacked CMOS image sensor with back-illuminated pixel structure and global shutter. This new product offers 394 fps high-speed processing and a high, 24.55-effective-megapixel*1 count and is optimized for industrial equipment imaging.

The new sensor product is equipped with the Pregius S™ global shutter technology made possible by SSS’s original pixel structure, delivering a compact design with minimal noise and high-quality imaging performance. It also employs a new circuit structure that optimizes pixel reading and sensor drive in the A/D converter, making processing approximately four times faster and twice as energy efficient as conventional products.*2

Along with the IMX925, SSS will also release three models with different sensor sizes and frame rates. The expanded product lineup will help make recognition and inspection tasks faster and more precise, improving productivity in the industrial equipment domain, where this kind of superior performance is increasingly in demand.

*1  Based on the image sensor effective pixel specification method.
*2  Compared to SSS’s IMX530 1.2-type 24.55-effective-megapixel CMOS image sensor.

IMX925 CMOS image sensor

Model nameSample shipment date (planned)
IMX925 and IMX935 1.2-type (19.3 mm diagonal) 24.55-effective-megapixel*1
stacked CMOS sensors
May 2025
1MX926 and IMX936 1/1.1-type (14.0 mm diagonal) 12.41 -effective-megapixel*1 stacked CMOS image sensorsMay 2025

With factory automation progressing, demand continues to grow for machine vision cameras capable of fast, high-quality imaging for a variety of objects in the industrial equipment domain. By employing a global shutter capable of capturing moving subjects free of distortion together with a proprietary back-illuminated pixel structure, SSS’s global-shutter CMOS image sensors deliver superb pixel characteristics, including high sensitivity and saturation capacity. They are mainly being used to recognize and inspect precision components such as electronic devices.

The IMX925 sensor is compact enough to be C mount compatible, the most common mounting standard for machine vision cameras. It has a total of 24.55 effective megapixels*1 and offers a higher frame rate than previous models thanks to the enhanced high-speed signal processing. These features enable increased image capture per unit of time, thereby reducing measurement and inspection process times and helping to save energy. The product is also expected to be useful in advanced inspection processes such as 3D inspections which employ multiple image data.

Main Features

New circuit structure with optimized sensor drive for high-speed imaging and power saving
The new sensor models employ a new circuit structure that optimizes pixel reading and sensor drive in the A/D converter. Reducing the data output time enables high-speed imaging, so the IMX925 delivers a frame rate of 394 fps, about four times faster than conventional products.*2 Power consumption is also more than twice as efficient as on conventional products.*2 The reduced power consumption and shorter measurement and inspection times will contribute to improved productivity in various applications.

Global shutter with original pixel structure for high-definition imaging in a compact package
The new products are equipped with SSS’s proprietary Pregius S global shutter technology. The back-illuminated pixels and stacked structure enable high sensitivity and saturation capacity on very small, 2.74 µm pixels. This structure delivers 24.55 effective megapixels*1 on the IMX925 in a C-mount-compatible 1.2-type size, delivering a high pixel count in a compact package. This design also ensures that the sensors can capture fast-moving objects free of distortion, which in turn makes the products highly useful in compact, high-definition machine vision cameras that can be easily installed on equipment and manufacturing lines.

Higher data transmission per lane for higher camera precision and speed


The new products employ SSS’s own embedded clock*3 high-speed interface SLVS-EC, which supports up to 12.5 Gbps/lane. With high-resolution image data transmitted on fewer data lanes than in the past, FPGA options are expanded, supporting the development of high-precision, high-speed cameras.

*3  A transfer method that embeds the clock in the data. There is no need to suppress delay time variance between lanes, resulting in easier board design and faster processing.

Related Links
IMX925 series product page: https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/products/is/industry/gs/imx925-926.html
Global shutter technology: https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/technology/industry/pregius.html
High-speed interface SLVS-EC™: https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/technology/is/slvsec.html

Key Specifications

Model nameIMX925IMX935IMX926IMX936
Image sizeDiagonal 19.3 mm (Type 1.2Diagonal 14.0 mm (Type 1/1.1
Effective pixels5328 × 4608 (H × V)
Approx. 24.55 megapixels
4128 × 3008 (H × V)
Approx. 12.41 megapixels
Unit cell size2.74 µm(H) × 2.74 µm(V)
Frame rate
(all pixels readout)
8bit: 442 frame/s
10bit: 394 frame/s
12bit: 212 frame/s
8bit: 225 frame/s
10bit: 200 frame/s
12bit: 107 frame/s
8bit: 660 frame/s
10bit: 588 frame/s
12bit: 318 frame/s
8bit: 339 frame/s
10bit: 302 frame/s
12bit: 162 frame/s
Input drive frequency37.125 MHz / 74.25 MHz
Power supply1.1 V, 1.8 V, 2.9 V, 3.3 V
Shutter modeGlobal Shutter
OutputSLVS-EC
8×2 / 6×2 / 4×2 Lane
8 / 6 / 4 / 2 / 1 Lane
SLVS-EC
8 / 6 / 4 / 2 / 1 Lane
SLVS-EC
8×2 / 6×2 / 4×2 Lane
8 / 6 / 4 / 2 / 1 Lane
SLVS-EC
8 / 6 / 4 / 2 / 1 Lane
FilterMono / BayerMono / BayerMono / BayerMono / Bayer
PackageCeramic Package(LGA)
24.5 mm (H) × 21.4 mm (V)

Note: Pregius S, SLVS-EC, and their logos are the registered trademarks or trademarks of Sony Group Corporation or its affiliated companies.

via Sony

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Two Samyang AF Lenses Coming Soon – Most Likely Samyang AF35mm F1.4 P FE and Samyang AF 12mm F2 RF-S


Samyang is teasing two lenses coming soon which are likely the Samyang AF35mm f/1.4 P FE and for APS-C Samyang AF 12mm f/2 RF-S. The APS-C lens if for Canon RF mount, while the Full Frame Lens is the Samyang AF35mm F1.4 P FE for Sony E-mount. Some additional details have leaked about the Samyang AF35mm F1.4 P FE which you can check out below:

Samyang AF35mm F1.4 P FE compared to previous generation

  • 470g down from the previous gen 659g
  • 12cm long compared to the previous gen at 13.5cm
  • Minimum focus distance 30cm compared to 29cm on the previous generation
  • New Lens hood and cap design

via Photorumors / Weibo

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Sony Alpha 1 II and Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM Preorders Started


Sony Alpha 1 II: B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama
Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM:
 B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama

Pre-orders started for the Sony Alpha 1 II and Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM.

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Sony Alpha 1 II and Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM Post Launch Coverage


Sony Alpha 1 II: B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama
Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM:
 B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama

Press Releases

Sony Electronics Announces Its First Constant F2 Aperture Zoom Lens: The Full-Frame 28-70mm F2 G Master™

Sony Electronics Announces Second-Generation Flagship Alpha 1 II

 

Video Reviews / Previews / Hands-on:

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Sony Electronics Announces Second-Generation Flagship Alpha 1 II


Sony Alpha 1 II: B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama
Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM:
 B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama

Sony Electronics Announces Second-Generation Flagship Alpha 1 II
A Combination of High Resolution, Speed, and AI Recognition Designed for Professionals

SAN DIEGONov. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the Alpha 1 II, its new flagship full-frame camera. This mirrorless camera brings together some of the most requested and beloved features of Sony’s high-end camera lineup into one body, designed to be the most reliable and strongest choice for any professional application. The Alpha 1 II combines high resolution, speed, and cutting-edge AI-driven technology to meet the output and workflow needs of professional photographers and videographers. Designed for professionals at the top of their game, the Alpha 1 II is an ideal hybrid tool for photojournalism, wildlife, sports, portraiture, weddings, and commercial work.

Key features of the Alpha 1 II include:

  • High-resolution full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with an approximate effective 50.1 MP (megapixels)
  • Up to 30 fps (frames-per-second) blackout-free continuous shooting with AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) trackingi
  • AI processing unit bringing advanced AI-based subject recognition performance and a new “Auto” recognition mode that automatically detects subjects
  • High-speed anti-distortion shutter reduces rolling shutter effect for clear undistorted images
  • Pre-Capture of up to one secondii and Continuous Shooting Speed Boost
  • Improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops (center) and 7.0 stops (periphery)iii for still images and a new Dynamic active Mode for videosiv
  • Updated processing algorithms for improved image noise reduction at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities
  • Up to 8K 30p / 4K 120p and 10-bit 4:2:2 video recording with Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and import User LUTs
  • Updated ergonomics and a lightweight design of approximately 743 grams (1 lb, 7.3 oz)v

“The original Alpha 1 was a groundbreaking release in 2021, and since then Sony has continued to raise the bar, year over year.  When developing the successor to our esteemed flagship model, we made it our mission to incorporate feedback from the industry and the community of Alpha 1, Alpha 7R V and Alpha 9 III users. The result is a powerhouse of a camera – our highest-performing, most balanced, utilitarian tool on the market,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The Alpha 1 II stays true to the Alpha 1’s foundational core of high resolution and speed but is amplified with a dedicated AI processing unit and enhanced ergonomics. It is sure to be seen as Sony’s strongest and most reliable hybrid camera ever created.”

High Resolution, Speed, and AI Combination
The Alpha 1 II camera’s exceptional reliability and versatility arises not just from strength of any single feature, but from the combination of its resolution, speed, and AI capabilities coexisting to amplify one another. Here is a breakdown of each:

High Resolution: The Alpha 1 II produces high-resolution images with a wide dynamic range through the full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with approximately 50.1 effective MP resolution. This resolution performance is further enhanced by the latest BIONZ XR® image processing engine. With a separate AI processing unit handling many of the subject recognition capabilities, the camera’s image processing engine now has increased bandwidth to enhance other features.

Speed: The camera offers blackout-free high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking at up to 30 fpsvi, which can track complex movements with AF/AE calculations at up to 120 times per secondvii. The camera also includes the highly requested Pre-Capture function, which allows images to be captured up to one second before the shutter button is pressedviii. For additional high-speed performance, users can activate the Continuous Shooting Speed Boost feature that can temporarily increase frame rates in high-action moments.

AI Processing Unit: The Alpha 1 II features Sony’s acclaimed AI processing unit, enabling Real-time Recognition AF. This technology strengthens Sony’s legacy of industry-leading auto focus and allows the user to accurately track animals, birds, insects, and various vehicles. It also introduces Sony’s human pose estimation, that instantly recognizes and tracks a person’s head and torso even when they’re moving or looking away. The Alpha 1 II also brings the latest evolution to Sony’s Real-time Recognition AF, featuring a new “Auto” mode that enables automatic subject recognition without the need to select a specific subject modeix.

Stable Performance and Advanced Video Capabilities
A major advancement of the Alpha 1 II is the improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops in the center (compared to 5.5 stops on the original Alpha 1) and 7.0 stops in the peripheryx. The high-speed anti-distortion shutter minimizes rolling shutter effect, delivering clear, undistorted images. The camera also features updated processing algorithms that reduce noise at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities without sacrificing image detail.

The Alpha 1 II maintains the same impressive video capabilities of its successor with the ability to shoot up to 8K 30p with 10bit 4:2:2 color depth, as well as high frame recording capabilities of 120p for 4K. In addition, it features a newly supported Dynamic active Mode for increased stability of video capturexi. The camera has a variety of features that support streamlined video creation including Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and import User LUTs capabilities.

Improved Ergonomics and Workflow Operability
The Alpha 1 II has been redesigned based on customer feedback including an evolved 3.2-type LCD monitor with a highly requested 4-axis multi-angle that can be freely adjusted to any angle. The Alpha 1 II’s camera body design has improved ergonomics, with many design elements borrowed from the acclaimed Alpha 9 III. Design evolutions include the grip, an enhanced quick release shutter button, and an additional “C5” custom button for added convenience. In addition, the camera is compatible with the VG-C5xii vertical grip that provides additional ergonomic support and extended battery performance.

For professionals seeking real-time image transfer solutions, the Alpha 1 II supports 2.5GBASE-T via wired LAN. Images and videos can be transmitted via stable, high-speed 5G communication when the camera is paired with Sony’s PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter (sold separately). Additionally, images and videos can be automatically transferred direct to Adobe Lightroom™ or Google Drive™ through the latest version of Sony’s cloud storage service, Creators’ Cloudxiii.

In a world of expanding technology and increasing AI, the ability to authenticate a photograph is now more critical than ever before. Images captured with the Alpha 1 II will be compatiblexiv with Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution that stores detailed camera informationxv within the image files. This aids media agencies and photojournalists in their growing fight against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes. This solution will be available through a separate upgrade license and scheduled after December 2024xvi.

Additional Accessories and Plastic-Free Packaging
For additional battery support, the Alpha 1 II comes with the new BC-ZD1 Dual-Battery Charger that rapidly charges two Z batteries (model NP-FZ100) simultaneously in 155 minutes to full chargexvii. In addition, the Alpha 1 II includes a new deep-type padded eyepiece cup (model FDA-EP21) accessory for an alternative viewing support option. A standard eyepiece comes attached to the camera by default but can be swapped with the deep pad option based on the user’s preference.

The Alpha 1 II is the first Alpha series camera (excluding ZV series cameras) to use Sony’s Original Blend Material for eco-conscious packaging. The materials used for packaging are a unique mix of bamboo, sugarcane, and recycled paper. This makes the packaging entirely free of plastic xviii.

Pricing and Availability
The Alpha 1 II will be available in December 2024 for approximately $6,499.99 USD and $8,499.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

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Sony Electronics Announces Its First Constant F2 Aperture Zoom Lens: The Full-Frame 28-70mm F2 G Master™


Sony FE 28-70mm f/2 GM: B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama
Sony Alpha 1 II: B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama

Sony Electronics Announces Its First Constant F2 Aperture Zoom Lens: The Full-Frame 28-70mm F2 G Master™
The Unique Combination of a Versatile Focal Range, Large F2 Aperture, and Compact Form Factor

SAN DIEGONov. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the 28-70mm F2 G Master, the firsti Sony zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture and 77th lens in the Sony E-Mount lineup. This full-frame lens offers a versatile focal range from 28mm to 70mm while delivering prime-likeii bokeh with its constant F2 aperture. Despite its wide aperture and zoom range, the 28-70mm F2 G Master remains compact, lightweight, and well-balanced, making it ideal for both photography and video applications. This combination of zoom range, large aperture, and compact design makes this an innovative and versatile lens for portrait, sports, wedding, event, and video professionals.

“Our goal with the 28-70mm F2 G Master was to create a high-performing zoom lens that could be a strong single lens alternative to multiple primes,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We prioritized a lightweight design during the engineering process as we knew that was a critical factor for real-life, practical use. And in a manner that only Sony can do, we were able to deliver a small, standard F2 zoom lens that does not sacrifice image quality. We’re proud to add this to our G Master series and believe it is one of the most innovative lenses ever offered to professionals.”

Sharp Imagery and Beautiful Bokeh
The 28-70mm F2 G Master produces extremely sharp corner-to-corner results throughout the entire zoom range, even while shooting wide open at F2. The high-resolution output is made possible by the three XA (extreme aspherical) elements and three aspherical elements built within the lens that minimize aberrations. The lens also features a floating focusing system that helps maintain internal stability. This focusing mechanism enables an impressive minimum focusing distance of up to 14.8 inches (0.38m) throughout the entire zoom range.

Staying true to the G Master lens lineage, the lens’ aperture up to F2 produces extraordinary bokeh, ideal for creating images that showcase a shallow depth of field. The 28-70mm F2 amplifies the G Master bokeh standards through a newly designed 11-blade circular aperture unit. Chromatic aberrations, which cause color fringing within photos, are effectively minimized with three Super ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and one ED element built within the lens. Additionally, Sony’s Nano AR Coating II reduces flare and internal reflections, ensuring clear images, even when strong light sources are present in the frame.

Compact, Lightweight Design Without Compromising Quality
The 28-70mm F2 G Master is one of the most advanced mirrorless camera lenses manufactured with a total 20 different lens elements arranged within 14 internal groups. Despite the advanced optical design, the lens remains compact at 3.6 x 5.5 inches (92.9 x 139.8mm) and lightweight at approximately 32.3 ounces (918g). The combination of imaging performance and a compact form factor offers an innovative solution that meets the demands of industry professionals.

Precise Autofocus Tracking with Instant Response
Reliable and responsive autofocus is delivered through the lens’ four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors powered by advanced control algorithms. This smooth performance system provides accurate and quick focus tracking, often essential in many professional use cases like weddings and sports. This lens is fully compatible with Sony’s Alpha 9 III’s high-speed continuous shooting capabilities of up to 120 frames per secondiii with AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) tracking, even while zooming.

Designed for High-Performance Video Shooting
Along with its F2 aperture, the zoom range of the 28-70mm G Master provides a versatile video option that can cover standard field-of-view shots and tighter compositions up to 70mm. This lens minimizes focus breathing through its build and compatibility with the Breathing Compensation feature on various Alpha bodiesiv. Its high autofocus performance ensures reliable focus even when recording in high frame rates up to 4K 120p / FHD 240pv. Additionally, the XD linear motors and newly developed aperture unit operates silently, preventing any lens noise from being captured during filming.

The lens is ideal for gimbal use with a minimal zoom extension of approximately .68 inches. The compact form factor and short external zoom helps maintain gimbal balance, even at varying focal lengths.

Operability and Reliability for Versatile Control
Key control features include Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focusing, adjustable zoom ring torque, and an aperture ring with a click ON/OFF switch. The lens also offers two customizable focus hold buttons, an iris lock switch, and an AF/MF switch. The 28-70mm F2 G Master has an 86mm filter diameter and a convenient window on the lens hood for variable filter adjustments.

For durability, all buttons and switches are sealed with silicone gaskets, and critical areas are designed to resist dust and moisturevi. This ensures reliability, even while using in challenging outdoor environments. Additionally, a fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants for easy cleaning.

Pricing and Availability
The 28-70mm F2 G Master will be available in December 2024 for approximately $2,899.99 USD and $3,999.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

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