Next-gen iPhone to get 3.2-megapixel camera

[Dolf]

The iPhone’s already been taken up a notch with Apple’s OS 3.0 that has seriously enhanced the functionality of the device. Of course it would be stupid to imagine that Apple would stop there and we’re all very anxiously waiting to see what the next gen iPhone itself is going to be like.

For a bit of a sneak peek, according to reports getting around, the iPhone’s camera is going to take a step up to a 3.2 megapixel lens in the next gen handset.

The reports are stating that a company called OmniVision is the one who’s going to provide Apple with 3.2MP CMOS sensors for the handsets camera module. The same reports also talk about the same company making 5 megapixel sensors for Apple too. There’s no word on whether or not the camera will incorporate auto focus technology. We’ll just have to wait and see, so stay tuned.

[Gonzo]

OmniVision is additionally noted to have secured a deal to produce five-megapixel sensors for Apple, though for what device is unclear; the end product is expected to launch later in 2009. Apple may theoretically use the sensors in a new iPhone or iPod, but the company is also said to be working on devices such as a 10-inch netbook, which could also take advantage of a camera. The technology could likewise be interwoven with Macs and Cinema Displays.

[Pugsly]

Adding some credibility to this news are positions Apple is currently advertising for.The iPhone maker is looking for two "Camera Design Engineers - iPhone" and a "Camera Project Manager - iPhone" as well as an "iPhone Photo and Camera Apps Developer ". The project manager's role is to "drive the design, development and integration of camera modules across iPhone and iPod".

[Simond]

But merely pumping up megapixels won't make the iPhone camera much better, so hopefully they’ll also pay attention things such as optics, image stabilization and improving low light performance.