- Models based on Xiaomi patents shed light on a new type of camera solution.
- The dual camera array could rotate around an axis and take more detailed wide-angle shots.
Xiaomi is working on a new type of movable camera system for future smartphones LetsGoDigital based on patents.
The solution documented in the patents concerns an array with two cameras. Both cameras are screwed onto a movable plate that can change the viewing angle of the cameras. In one use case, the cameras can rotate to expand their field of view. The two shots can then be stitched together to create a wide-angle image.
LetsGoDigital The renderings show the two cameras side by side, but Xiaomi could also use such a system with two cameras arranged vertically.
It is not clear what problem Xiaomi is trying to fix with these patents. While Xiaomi's smartphones would allow for more detailed and accurate wide-angle shots, it appears to be an overdevelopment.
The patented system does not seem to have the goal of reducing the number of sensors on a smartphone. Traditional smartphones can take ultra-wide-angle shots with one camera, while this system requires two identical cameras to record wide-angle scenes. Xiaomi would still have to install a special zoom and macro shooter on the device if they wanted to take these shots too.
Adding moving parts to a smartphone also increases the fragility of the device, as we saw with the previous generation of foldable phones. Dropping the device can also cause camera array alignment problems.
That said, take these renderings with a pinch of salt. Xiaomi usually patents several crazy concepts, including Bonkers' detachable display smartphone and a phone that also doubles as a mount for wireless earbuds. However, these designs rarely make it onto the big stage.
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