[MWC Shanghai 2018] Samsung Electronics’ mobile technology innovations at a glance

The 27th marked the beginning of the “MWC (Mobile World Congress) Shanghai 2018” event in China. “MWC Shanghai 2018” was hosted by the Shanghai New International Expo Center from the 27th to the 29th, with the themes of mobile, the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, automotive, and AI. Upwards of 550 firms from more than 100 countries participated in this year’s event. Samsung Electronics was there too, showcasing various innovative mobile experiences made possible by the “Exynos” mobile AP and “ISOCELL” image sensors, alongside a range of component solutions to customers in China and around the world. Let’s dive right in.

ISOCELL: All things image sensor Samsung Electronics image sensor brand “ISOCELL” is the first thing that catches your eye as you walk into the hall. ISOCELL is also the name of Samsung Electronics’ image sensor technology that creates high-quality images by minimizing cross-pixel interference. Since unveiling the ISOCELL brand at the MWC Shanghai event last year, Samsung has been busily reinforcing its image sensor business.

The image sensor is used in cameras for various IT devices including smartphones, and is a critical component that influences not only manufacturers but also consumer product choices. At this year’s event, Samsung Electronics showcased a diversified lineup of image sensor solutions for use in various consumer environments.

The “ISOCELL Slim 3P9” comes with the “ISOCELL Plug&Play” solution, which promises revolutionary time savings in smartphone development. Many Chinese smartphone makers expressed interest in the product. The ISOCELL Plug&Play solution is a turnkey model with pre-tuned software and hardware such as the image sensor, lens, and actuator. A manufacturer incorporating the “ISOCELL Slim 3P9” into its smartphone design can expect to shorten development by as much as 4 months. Also at MWC Shanghai 2018, Samsung Electronics unveiled the new “ISOCELL Plus” image sensor technology. Structural design and material improvements allow ISOCELL Plus to prevent inter-pixel interference while also significantly reducing optical loss. Using the technology, high color gamut can be achieved even with smaller pixels. Camera sensitivity is also enhanced by up to 15%.

Other Samsung Electronics offerings included the “ISOCELL Fast 2L8”, which employs dual pixel technology for fast and accurate auto focus, and “ISOCELL Bright”, which is based on Tetrapixel technology. Tetrapixel is a technology that adjusts pixel count depending on the environment, allowing for bright and crisp images to be taken in low light settings. The Exynos series: An entirely new mobile experience Samsung Electronics displayed a diversified lineup of mobile APs ranging from the premium AP “Exynos 9 (9810)” to the high-range “Exynos 7(9610)” and mid-range “Exynos 5”, providing a broader range of choice to global customers.

Visitors expressed particular interest in the “Exynos 7 (9610)”, with improved deep learning and image processing functions to keep with the ongoing smartphone trend toward better camera functionality and multimedia usage. The “Exynos 7 (9610)” comes with deep learning technology and optimized internal hardware. This allows for effective recognition of objects and human faces, as well as accurate depth perception for DSLR-like out-focusing effects. The “Exynos 7 (9610)” also supports Full HD slow motion video capture at 480 frames per second, providing users with an entirely new mobile experience. From NFC solutions for mobile payments to trendy smart speaker platforms! The Samsung Electronics booth also featured NFC solutions and IoT (Internet of Things) smart speakers.

NFC technology is a technology crucial for mobile payments. Samsung Electronics’ NFC solutions boast outstanding RF (Radio Frequency) performance while also satisfying the stringent performance requirements for mobile POS solutions. Also on display was “NFC Power Transfer” technology for contact-free supply of electrical power to LED covers and other mobile accessories, as well as the “AKI” children’s watch based on the “Exynos 7270” and NFC solutions.

The “Smart Speaker” is a virtual “secretary” that enables voice control of various devices and IT systems in the home. As the technology progresses and the market grows, the smart speaker is increasingly becoming a household item. Samsung’s MWC Shanghai 2018 exhibit also featured a reference platform for smart speaker development. That wraps up our coverage on-site at the MWC Shanghai 2018 event. Stay tuned for more news from Samsung Semiconductor at the forefront of mobile technology innovation! _{* Technological term of 'Tetrapixel' was updated in July 2022}