“V1 is a fully-customized integrated circuit chip dedicated for imaging and video applications with leading-edge visual quality, marking a key milestone as vivo’s inaugural breakthrough in independent R&D and chip design. In line with vivo’s imaging system design, the Imaging Chip V1 can better serve user needs by optimizing smartphone application scenarios such as viewfinder look and video recording,” said Hu Baishan, Executive Vice President & COO at vivo.
The Imaging Chip V1 has been under development for 24 months by over 300 R&D personnel and imaging lab experts at vivo. Moving forward, vivo’s approach towards spearheading innovative image processing (IP) technology at the chip level will mainly revolve around four strategic tracks: image system, operating system, industrial design and performance. In Hu’s view, vivo will only consider developing chips with partners when there is a lack of supplied capability on the market that are suitable for vivo’s product and technical needs, along with substantial demand for fully-customized chips to support these long-term strategic tracks. vivo will strategically focus its resources on simulating the known needs of consumers through IP Design and developing key innovative image processing algorithms, without undertaking chip manufacturing.
“Aside from enhancing the visual aesthetics and imaging effects of vivo products, the Imaging Chip V1 also aims to bring unparalleled experiences to users by channelling emotional resonance through visual expression. vivo is staunchly committed to long-term investment in the four strategic tracks to create industry-leading technology and innovation, which will undoubtedly satisfy even the most demanding high-end smartphone users,” he added.
As early as 2019, vivo began linking design-driven and user-oriented innovation with the evolving demands of users, culminating in the four long-term strategic tracks. Since then, vivo has been recruiting talents from all around the world to implement a vigorous development strategy.