This is the super dual pixel camera sensor inside your flashy new Galaxy S7

By Andy Boxall March 9, 2016

samsung dual pixel camera galaxy s7 sensor lens

Now the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge have been revealed to the world, Samsung has decided to show off the brand new camera sensor that resides in both phones, despite it already being in mass production, and about to be in the hands of eager new phone owners. The sensor is special because of its dual pixel technology, which Samsung says makes amazing, DSLR-quality low-light images possible using a smartphone.

Samsung certainly made a big deal out of the camera technology inside the Galaxy S7 during the Barcelona launch event, repeatedly comparing it to the iPhone 6S Plus, and showing side-by-side images where the new S7 easily bested the existing Apple phone. Subsequently, a demonstration at Samsung’s Mobile World Congress booth showed just how deeply impressive the new cameras are, by getting visitors to snap pictures in a very dark room. The results outclassed the S6 Edge, and the iPhone 6S Plus in an on-the-spot test, with the S7’s camera showing considerably more detail with less noise than the other phones.

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The dual pixel sensor uses larger pixels that the Galaxy S6’s camera, and has an f/1.7 aperture, making it on paper one of the best performing cameras available. The incredibly fast phase detection autofocus makes use of 100-percent of the pixels, which also helps in producing brilliant pictures, even in low light. Finally, the 12-megapixel camera sensor is smaller and sleeker than before, minimising the impact it has on the design of the device itself.

In our reviews of the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, we put Samsung’s claims to the test, and have noted the excellent job it does in low light, plus how favourably it compares to the iPhone 6S. If you haven’t already pre-ordered a Galaxy S7, there’s still a few days before the official release, which means you can grab a free Samsung Gear VR headset to go with your sparkly new phone.

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