Stmicroelectronics launches the world's first dToF sensor with integrated metalens

     Stmicroelectronics (ST) has launched a new generation of FlightSense time-of-flight (ToF) ranging sensors, a new product for smartphones and AR/VR/MR Devices, among others. By significantly improving the performance of a number of key components, the new dToF sensor doubles the range performance of the previous generation, with a range of up to 4 meters in indoor all-area mode, while reducing the power consumption by half under the same operating conditions.

     Eric Aussedat, executive vice president and general manager of the Imaging sub-group of STMicro's Analog, MEMS and Sensors business group, said: "The commercial use of ST's ToF technology has been a huge success, with over 200 smartphones and over 100 computers, projectors and robots using our products. Now, the VL53L8 FlightSense sensor takes ranging performance and energy efficiency to a new level. Our new generation of ranging sensors is a game changer. With innovative metasurface lens technology and energy efficient architecture, the new sensors reduce battery load, extend the camera's autofocus range, and enhance scene awareness.

     The optical Metalenz surface technology, developed and pioneered by stmicroelectronics in collaboration with Metalenz, allows optical systems to collect more optical signals, single layers to provide multiple functions, and new forms of sensing in smartphones and other devices, all integrated in a compact package.

     The VL53L8 is great for managing the front and rear cameras of smartphones and tablets, as well as smart speakers and personal electronics such as AR/VR/MR. Front-facing apps include object tracking and gesture recognition, while back-facing apps include laser autofocus, camera selection, touch focus and flash dimming. In low-light conditions, the VL53L8 will provide greater advantages for these functions. The dToF sensor can also support indoor/outdoor detection and intelligent focusing, as well as consumer lidar requiring depth maps.