Sony Sensors Still Reign in Smartphone Photography Race Despite 2024 Advances

IMX sensors continue to dominate the high-end smartphone imaging market, with top-tier models utilizing large-sensor designs to push the boundaries of mobile photography. According to the latest sensor rankings, the Sony LYT-900 and IMX989 remain at the forefront, both featuring 1-inch sensor sizes that offer superior low-light performance and dynamic range. These sensors are widely used in flagship devices such as the OPPO Find X7 Pro, vivo X100 Ultra, and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, all of which have demonstrated exceptional image quality in recent benchmark tests.

The performance of the IMX989, in particular, remains unmatched in its class. Used in models such as the vivo X90 Pro+ and Xiaomi 13 Ultra, this sensor continues to set the standard for high-end smartphone photography. Its combination of high resolution (50MP) and large sensor size has made it a preferred choice among manufacturers targeting premium users. The IMX989 also includes optical image stabilization (OIS), further enhancing its appeal for capturing sharp images in challenging conditions.

In parallel, the LYT-900 has emerged as a direct successor to the IMX989. Introduced in 2024, the LYT-900 is nearly identical in terms of performance but offers a more energy-efficient design. It is currently used in the Xiaomi 15 and several other flagship models, where it has received positive feedback for its ability to deliver high-quality images while maintaining lower power consumption. This makes it an attractive option for manufacturers looking to optimize both camera performance and battery life.

Beyond the top-tier sensors, the IMX766 and IMX890 remain popular choices in mid-range and performance-oriented models. The IMX766, for instance, is widely used in devices like the Redmi Note 12 Pro and the Huawei Mate 60 Pro+, where it delivers a balance of cost and image quality. The IMX890, an upgraded version of the IMX766, offers improved throughput and is found in models such as the Realme GT5 and iQOO Neo 9 series. These sensors are particularly valued for their ability to perform well in low-light environments without significantly increasing power draw.

The broader trend in the industry suggests that larger sensor sizes remain a key differentiator in smartphone photography. While software algorithms and computational photography play a growing role in image enhancement, the underlying hardware—particularly the sensor—still has a decisive impact on the final output. As manufacturers continue to refine their sensor technologies and integrate them with more advanced processors, the competition in the imaging segment is expected to intensify.

Currently, the market is also seeing increased adoption of multi-camera systems, where different sensors are used for specialized functions such as ultra-wide, telephoto, and low-light photography. This approach allows manufacturers to optimize performance across a wide range of shooting conditions. For instance, the combination of the Sony IMX920 with the Samsung S5KJN1 and OV64B has become a common configuration in several flagship models, offering users a versatile imaging experience.

As the demand for better mobile photography grows, analysts predict that the trend of sensor innovation will continue into the next year. While no new large-sensor models have yet surpassed the IMX989 and LYT-900 in terms of performance, the introduction of more advanced pixel binning techniques and improved noise reduction algorithms could help close the gap. In the short term, the market remains largely dominated by the top three sensor manufacturers—Sony, Samsung, and OmniVision—with each vying to capture a larger share of the premium smartphone market.