Sony LYT-901: New 200-megapixel sensor takes zoom and HDR to a new level

Sony has unveiled the LYT-901, a camera sensor that marks the company’s entry into the 200-megapixel segment. Internally designated IMX09E, it directly competes with Samsung’s flagship models and is expected to significantly improve image quality and zoom capabilities in upcoming premium smartphones.

The sensor has a surface area of ​​1/1.12 inches and operates with native pixels of 0.7 micrometers. To efficiently process the enormous amount of data, Sony uses a special quad-quad Bayer architecture, whose information is processed via a dedicated hardware remosaic path. Additionally, the chip integrates AI logic directly into the circuitry, thereby reducing data loss and optimizing processing for smartphone SoCs.

Particularly noteworthy are the new HDR and zoom functions. With Hybrid Frame HDR, Sony combines Dual Conversion Gain with an additional micro-frame to achieve a dynamic range of over 100 decibels. This corresponds to approximately 17 f-stops and prevents overexposure and motion artifacts in fast-moving scenes. Furthermore, the sensor enables 4x lossless zoom for both photos and videos. This allows for telephoto shots without an additional zoom lens.

A unique feature is the ability to record 4K video at 30 frames per second with the 4x hardware zoom activated. Additionally, the sensor supports pixel binning at 50 megapixels in 2x2 mode and 12.5 megapixels in 4x4 mode, improving low-light performance and stabilizing high-zoom levels. This technology is expected to be particularly advantageous for concert and event photography.

The LYT-901 is expected to launch in 2026. The first devices that could use the new sensor are the Oppo Find X9 Ultra in March and the Vivo X300 Ultra in the second quarter. This should further strengthen Sony’s position in the high-end smartphone photography segment.

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