LG/Verizon Chocolate Camera Phone using OmniVision
LG Electronics selects OmniVision as CMOS supplier : OmniVision, a supplier of CMOS image sensors, announced a strategic relationship with LG Electronics to be the preferred supplier for its fast growing camera phone business. In order to support the number one CDMA phone supplier, OmniVision will expand its Korean operations by hiring additional staff and working with its module partners to ensure capacity for 2006. OmniVision expects to supply camera chips for over 50% of LG’s camera phone shipments this year. According to market research firm Strategy Analytics, LG Electronics leads the world in CDMA phone sales with a 21.2% worldwide market share and over 22 million CDMA handsets sold in the first 3 quarters of 2005.
LG Electronics Camera phones
In overall handset sales worldwide, LG ranks among the four largest handset makers, which include Nokia and Motorola, with a 7.4 percent market share. “LG Electronics sold over 15.5 million GSM and CDMA handsets worldwide in the third quarter alone,” said Mr. S. K. Kim, Vice President, Mobile Communication Company of LG Electronics Inc. “Camera phones will be an important growth driver in our handset business in 2006, with more than 70 percent of total handset shipments likely to include a camera. We are pleased to build on our strong existing relationship with OmniVision and to have their commitment to support our technical and logistical requirements. OmniVision support will allow LG Electronics to capitalize on the anticipated growth in camera phone demand.”
OmniVision’s CMOS image sensors
“We are delighted that our strategic partnership with LG continues to flourish,” said Jess Lee, Vice President of OmniVision’s Mainstream Products Business. “By constantly improving product performance, quality and customer care, OmniVision continues to differentiate itself by supporting customers, not only with CMOS image sensors, but with total camera solutions.”