Sony announced the 1 mm × 1 mm IMX742 image sensor for disposable endoscopes. The new sensor, which joins Sony’s image and audio components, has a resolution of approximately 0.51 megapixels. The company states that it can transmit digital images over a five-meter cable. Sample product shipment is planned to begin in November 2026.
The sensor uses 720 × 720 effective pixels and outputs images at up to 60 frames per second. The horizontal and vertical dimensions of a single pixel are at the micrometer level. The six-connection package is designed for small diameter camera tips. Sony is targeting devices that work in tight spaces, such as bronchoscopes and ureteroscopes.
In addition, control commands and video signals travel over the same cable. The company explains that it provides this with its own two-way communication technology. Thus, it aims to protect digital transmission while limiting the number of connections. The five-meter result is based on Sony’s evaluation environment using AWG44 cable.
The product’s goal is not to be a stand-alone imaging device. Sony offers the IMX742 as a component to be built into other devices. The announcement also clearly states that the product is not a medical device and has not received evaluation or approval for medical applications. Therefore, the sensor announcement should not be considered as the introduction of a ready-to-use, approved endoscope.
Sony puts image conversion circuitry inside the sensor
IMX742 digitizes the analog image signal inside the sensor. Sony says that in this way, it aims for lower noise and more visible images in dark areas compared to analog output. However, the announcement does not provide an independent hospital comparison or clinical success rate. The transmission distance and frame rate describe the technical capabilities of the imaging component.
Sony’s explanation of analog to digital conversion further explains why this process is important in image sensors. The fact that the analog signal travels over a long path leaves room for noise to interfere with the image during transmission. Using conversion circuits within the sensor can help speed up reading by shortening the analog portion of the signal. This general description is not meant to be a schematic describing the entire internal circuitry of the IMX742.
On the other hand, the digital connection of the sensor, which reaches five meters, aims to offer manufacturers different options in the placement of the camera tip and other electronics. How this will be implemented in a real endoscope will be determined by the companies developing the device. Sony has not yet announced the device price for the end user or the usage schedule in Türkiye. The date given for November includes sample shipment of the sensor.