【Case Study】| Camera Tuning x CIeNET

Studies show that smartphone consumers want their cameras to have better image quality in low-light situations. Among phone features, higher quality photos and videos were found to be even more important than being equipped with 5G. For the camera’s features, better low-light image quality was the top preference – scoring higher in importance than having 5x optical zoom, front and rear-facing cameras, 8K video, and a triple-rear camera.

When comparing daytime and nighttime photos or videos, people are largely satisfied with their daytime photos but about one-fourth of users are unsatisfied with their photos taken during the night.

CIeNET engineers have extensive capabilities in camera tuning, specifically ISP (image signal processor) tuning, which includes data correction, noise reduction, color correction, 3A (auto-focus, auto-exposure, auto-white balance), and many other functions. Especially in low-light, noise reduction is a very important element for cameras. For example, it is necessary to raise objects in the foreground above the noise background and to make the flat region smoother.

3A algorithms are also particularly key elements. Auto-focus chooses which distance of the scene should be the focus. In a video, auto-focus decides how the algorithm should balance between stability and refocusing if the scene changes.

Auto-exposure adjusts the camera’s exposure to reach the brightness level that the human eye prefers. A poor auto-exposure algorithm may saturate under highlights or may clip dark areas, which results in losing parts of the image.
And finally, auto-white balance helps the camera obtain the correct colors in various lighting conditions. In low-light conditions, this can be particularly challenging, so the algorithm needs to be accurate.

CIeNET has provided on-site consultant services for camera development and tuning for leading mobile device companies. Contact business@cienet.com to find out more about how we can help you tune your smartphones’ cameras to give your customers what they want.