LG could boost competition in the smartphone market with its 16-camera device and mobile photographers could experiment with the innovation
LG, reportedly, has received a patent describing a smartphone with 16 cameras from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The 16 lenses with varying focal lengths will supposedly be placed on the back of the smartphone.
16 cameras
According to LetsGoDigital, a technology magazine, the patent granted to LG describes the phone as one that carries a whole new feature flaunting 16 cameras placed in a grid of 4×4. As per the report, a user might be able to shoot 16 images at once with a single tap and all the images would have different angles.
This could, theoretically, allow the user to capture an image from slightly different perspectives and combine them to create a moving image. The patent has also mentioned a few software-based features that might allow one to stitch different parts of an image together. With 16 lenses, the depth of field can be expected to be better and additional features like focus adjustment post-shooting can also be introduced.
Mirror support
LG is likely to pack the smartphone with a mirror on its back so that a user can capture photos using the back camera. It could be equipped with a single sensor on the front that captures standard photos and videos. However, the magazine has noted that the patent does not necessarily mean it will be used in the products.
Smartphone brands are betting huge on the number of cameras stacked in their products. Users are also seen to be attracted to multi-camera phones. Recently, Xiaomi sold over 6 lakh units of its Redmi Note 6 Pro with 4 cameras within 3 hours of the first flash sale after launch.
Samsung also launched its Galaxy A9 smartphone that features a four-camera setup on the back. The report by LetsGoDigital magazine suggests that there is a possibility in innovating a device with 16 cameras. Smartphone makers are now starting to consider the mobile photographers and thereby pack their phones with the latest technology delivering sharp images.
