Overview

• The granted patent titled “Image Sensor With Stacked Pixels Having High Dynamic Range And Low Noise” outlines a two-layer design with a top sensor die for light capture and an underlying logic die for processing.
• Innovations include a Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor enabling three-level charge storage per pixel and on-chip per-pixel circuits that cancel thermal noise in real time.
• Apple projects the sensor could capture up to 20 stops of dynamic range, surpassing current smartphone limits of about 10–13 stops and rivaling professional cinema cameras like the ARRI ALEXA 35.
• The filing underscores Apple’s push to develop imaging silicon internally, potentially reducing its dependence on Sony-designed components.
• Experts caution that, as with many patents, detailed filings do not guarantee the technology will reach production or appear in future devices.