15 million euros to make cameras three times more sensitive

Imec has launched its new spin-off eyeo. Thanks to a unique technology that processes light more efficiently, eyeo is developing image sensors that are three times more sensitive than traditional models. This makes it possible to build more compact cameras without sacrificing image quality, which is crucial for applications in smartphones, AR/VR and medical imaging, among others. Eyeo raised 15 million euros in seed capital with support from imec.xpand, InvestNL, QBIC, the High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) and the Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM).

Image sensors are at the heart of just about every camera, from smartphones to industrial applications. Yet most cameras still work with colour filters that have remained unchanged for more than 50 years. Those filters block much of the light spectrum, to the detriment of image quality and light sensitivity. Until now, manufacturers compensated for this problem by making larger sensors, but this in turn leads to larger and heavier cameras, which is a challenge for thin smartphones and compact optical systems, for example.

Waveguide-based technology

Eyeo solves this problem with a new waveguide-based technology developed within imec. Instead of losing light through filters, this technology splits the light into its individual colours and sends it directly to the pixels. The result is three times better light sensitivity and double the resolution without the need to make the sensor bigger. This gives you sharper images in all lighting conditions, which could lead to a new generation of compact and energy-efficient cameras.

Semiconductors and photonics

Eyeo is building on the strong semiconductor and photonics ecosystem in Flanders and the Netherlands to develop this next generation of image sensors. To this end, the spin-off is working with both local and international players in the sector. Eyeo has its headquarters in Eindhoven and its R&D department in Leuven. With a start-up capital of 15 million euros, eyeo wants to further optimise its technology for scalable production and accelerate the development of prototypes. Within two years, the first prototypes are expected with customers.

Ultra-compact cameras

Jeroen Hoet, CEO of eyeo: "With this technology, we are redrawing the future of imaging. We not only address the limitations of traditional sensors, but also create totally new possibilities, from ultra-compact cameras for medical diagnostics to razor-sharp images from security cameras in the darkest conditions."

Opening photo: A new technique based on waveguides splits light into its individual colours and sends it directly to the pixels (render) image: Imec

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