ST Semiconductor Launches Second Generation Multi Zone Direct ToF Sensor

     ST introduced a new generation of FlightSense Time of Flight (ToF) ranging sensor, which is suitable for smart phone camera management and AR and VR devices. By significantly improving the performance of many key components, the ranging performance of the new generation ToF module of STC is twice that of the previous generation, and the indoor full zone mode ranging is up to 4 meters. Under the same working conditions, the power consumption is reduced by half compared with the previous generation.

     Executive Vice President and Simulation, ST Semiconductor Eric Aussedat, general manager of the imaging sub business unit of the MEMS and sensors business unit, said: "ST's ToF technology has achieved great success in commercial use. At present, more than 200 smartphones and more than 100 computers, projectors and robots are using our products. Now, the VL53L8 FlightSense sensor has improved the ranging performance and energy efficiency to a new level. Our new generation of ranging sensors are rule changers. With innovative super surface lens technology and energy-saving architecture, the new sensors can reduce the battery load and expand the camera Auto focus range and enhanced scene awareness. "

     ST Semiconductor cooperates with Metalenz to develop and initiate optical hypersurface technology, which enables optical systems to collect more optical signals, provide multiple functions in a single layer, and provide new sensing forms in smartphones and other devices, all of which are integrated in a compact package.

     The VL53L8 is very suitable for managing the front and rear cameras of smartphones and tablets, as well as smart speakers, AR/VR/MR and other personal electronic product accessories. Front applications include object tracking and gesture recognition, while rear applications include laser autofocus, camera selection, touch focus, and flash dimming. Under low light conditions, VL53L8 will provide greater advantages for these functions. The sensor can also support indoor/outdoor detection and intelligent focusing and surrounding, as well as consumer level lidars that require depth maps.