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Article ID : 00300558 / Last Modified : 11/13/2023Print

Xperia 5 V: Why two camera lenses instead of three?

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    The new Xperia 5 V utilises only two lenses instead of three compared to its predecessors. Why is that and how can two lenses do the work of three? 

    Why does Xperia 5 V have two camera lenses instead of three?

    Xperia 5 V has a new design with two prominent camera lenses on the back side. The bottom lens in Xperia 5 V does the work of two lenses (24mm and 48mm), making the need for a third lens unnecessary.

    By using a high-pixel sensor and pixel binning, Xperia 5 V achieves telephoto zoom performance similar to its predecessors. This enables shooting portraits from any angle, just like before.

    Picture from Sony's marketing website showing the top lens (16mm) and the bottom lens in Xperia 5 V, which does the work of two lenses (24mm and 48mm).

    Visit Sony - Xperia’s Facebook page to see pictures taken with the 16mm, 24mm, and 48mm lenses on Xperia 5 V. Photo credits go to Ippei & Janine Photography.

    Sony - Xperia's Facebook post showing example pictures taken by Ippei & Janine Photography with the 16mm, 24mm and 48mm lenses.

    What is pixel binning?

    Pixel binning in phone cameras merges data from nearby pixels into larger units, boosting sensitivity and enhancing low-light photo quality while reducing noise. This technology is a valuable asset for improving smartphone photography in dimly lit environments.

    What sets apart the zoom system in Xperia 5 V from traditional digital zoom?

    Typically, when capturing a photo at 24mm, the resolution is reduced from 48MP to 12MP using a technique called pixel binning.

    Regular digital zoom enlarges pixels when transitioning from 24mm to 48mm.

    Xperia 5 V’s zoom system takes a different approach than digital zoom. It starts with pixel binning, where it combines pixels to create a 12MP image. Then, it cleverly reverts the image back to its original 48MP resolution before cropping. As a result, when you zoom in, the image quality remains sharp at 12 MP.

    What advantages does the new next-gen sensor in Xperia 5 V offer?

    The Xperia 5 V boasts the latest Exmor T™ for mobile camera sensor (available on the 24mm lens) with 2-layer transistor pixel technology. It excels in low-light conditions, providing two times better low-light quality than its predecessors. What’s more, AI optimisation enhances focus, white balance, and exposure, ensuring professional, quality photos.

    Visit Sony - Xperia’s Facebook page to see what Exmor T™ for mobile can do in low-light conditions!