Future iPhones Could Capture 'Super-Resolution' Photos Using Optical Image Stabilization

Today, the US Patent & Trademark Office published Apple patent application number 20140125825 that describes a method of producing super-resolution images using optical image stabilization (OIS) and burst-mode photos (via AppleInsider). This may allow future models of the iPhone to generate images that exceed the megapixel resolution limits of the camera hardware.

ois-patent-super-resolution
The invention uses a camera with an optical image stabilization module that can take multiple images with each subsequent capture offset by a small amount. These lower resolution images are then intelligently stitched together by a dedicated image processor to create a resulting high-resolution photograph.

A system and method for creating a super-resolution image using an image capturing device. In one embodiment, an electronic image sensor captures a reference optical sample through an optical path. Thereafter, an optical image stabilization (OIS) processor to adjusts the optical path to the electronic image sensor by a known amount. A second optical sample is then captured along the adjusted optical path, such that the second optical sample is offset from the first optical sample by no more than a sub-pixel offset. The OIS processor may reiterate this process to capture a plurality of optical samples at a plurality of offsets. The optical samples may be combined to create a super-resolution image.

Image stabilization allows for sharper photos and videos by utilizing motion tracking and other technology to remove the effects of device shakiness during capture. Apple currently offers software-based image stabilization in which the device takes four photos in quick succession and the combines them to reduce blurring., but the company has been rumored to be looking to improve this system. While OIS would embed the technology directly into the camera hardware, improved electronic image stabilization would allow for the iPhone to have a slimmer camera that does not protrude outside the device.

Rumors from earlier this year suggested Apple could incorporate Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology into its upcoming iPhone 6, possibly contracting with InvenSense to supply the necessary hardware. The company's work on the technology has also surfaced in other patent filings, leveraging the expertise of Richard Topliss an engineer recruited from Cambridge Mechatronics in early 2012. The most recent rumor from ESM China analyst Sun Chang Xu claims, however, that Apple may equip the iPhone 6 camera with an improved sensor module and an electronic image stabilization system.

Tag: Patent

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Top Rated Comments

Chupa Chupa Avatar
146 months ago
Sorry, but you can only get so good without a big lens.

That's why I'll keep my Nikon D3.
People use to say that with car engines but some of todays 4cyl are faster than yesteryears 6cyl.

Truth: D3 will crush phone cameras for a while but who carries a D3 or any (d)SLR with them 24/7? The best camera one has is the camera they take with them. A camera phone isn't meant to replace a (d)SLR so silly comment. No need to be a camera snob.
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Crosscreek Avatar
146 months ago
winner

Samsung will reverse engineer as soon as available.
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Gasu E. Avatar
146 months ago

That's why I'll keep my Nikon D3.
Really? How many bars of reception does your D3 get?
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
kf90210 Avatar
146 months ago
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
slash7844 Avatar
146 months ago
NOTHING.. but the PR chaps will just put a new spin on it and the ifans will lap it up..

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It's not copying , its "done right!"...

LOL. So if someone copies Apple, it's a blatant ripoff. If Apple copies someone else, it's 'done right'. Good logic.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Four oF NINE Avatar
146 months ago
Sorry, but you can only get so good without a big lens.

That's why I'll keep my Nikon D3.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)