Sony announces IMX500 and IMX501, the first image sensors with built-in AI

Sony has just unveiled two of the world's first image sensors with built-in artificial intelligence—IMX500 and IMX501.

IMX500 and IMX501

Meet Sony's new intelligent camera sensors

The sensors are said to be capable of processing captured images and extracting intelligent metadata at high speeds. Sony said that they can be paired with cloud services. The company claimed that the built-in AI of the chips can reduce data transmission latency, minimize privacy concerns, and reduces power consumption as well as communication costs.

How it works

Both the IMX500 and IMX501 are backside-illuminated 1/2.3-inch sensors with around 1.3MP resolution and 4K 60fps video capabilities. The sensors are said to use a new "stacked" design combining a pixel chip with a logic chip. The logic chip is the one responsible for AI image analysis and processing capabilities.

Currently, the sensors are geared for industrial and retail use. But, we won't be surprised if Sony will implement this on other cameras in the near future.

The IMX500 has already begun shipping to Sony industry customers. The IMX501 is set to start shipping by next month.

IMX500 and 501 are expected to be priced at JPY 10,000 (around PHP 4.7K) and JYP 20,000 (around PHP 9.4K), respectively.

Source: PetaPixel