After almost 10 years of introducing the first camera module, Raspberry Pi finally launched Camera Module 3. Camera Module 3, a class apart in its segment, has bigger pixels, higher resolution, and multiple field-of-view options than its predecessors.

Before we dig deeper into Camera Module 3, let’s talk about its predecessor once. 

What did it have?

• The original Camera Module which was released in May 2013, was Raspberry Pi's first official single-board computer (SBC) accessory
• It was capable of generating 640-by-480-pixel, 720p, and 1,080p video
• It was soon followed by a NoIR infrared-sensitive form 
• 3  years later, the UK-based tech firm, revealed the Camera Module 2 which was an 8MP shooter and integrated with a Sony IMX219 sensor
• In the year 2020, Raspberry Pi released the 12.3MP High Quality Camera which supported C- and CS-mount lenses

Now, let’s talk about the new Camera Module 3

• It is available in four variants and opens in a new window too
• The tech promises higher resolution, bigger pixels, and more field-of-view options than its previous iterations 
• It also has an amazingly powered autofocus along with high dynamic range and compatibility with all Raspberry Pi computers (other than the Raspberry Pi 400 and 2016 Zero)

Raspberry Icing on the Cake

• Camera Module 3 is integrated with Sony's back-illuminated IMX708 sensor for 12 megapixel-resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio
• It has a greater and more sensitive pixel design that supports HDR imaging as well
• It also moves away from Raspberry Pi's previous fixed-focus optics that allows the lens to shift backward and forward
• It is also relative to the sensor till a certain area 
• By default, the middle section is optimally focused; even while recording a video

According to Upton, the cherry on top is its high dynamic range. Simultaneously, the imaging technique captures multiple frames of the same scene at the same time, but with different exposures. It then combines all of them to present one image with a certain balanced lighting.

More Updates 

The updates of Camera Module 3 include visible-light and infrared-sensitive options, with either a standard or wide field of view (FoV).

“And in place of the fixed-focus optics of its predecessors, Camera Module 3 provides powered autofocus—which many of you have requested, allowing you to take crisp images of objects from around 5cm out to infinity." Upton said.

What’s more?

• The standard FoV Camera Module 3 variants are on sale now from approved resellers for $25 
• The wide-angle options are priced at $35
• Raspberry Pi also launched a version of the High Quality Camera with a native M12 mount which is available for $50

Raspberry Pi Trading CEO Eben Upton said,  "But time, and CMOS image sensor technology, marches on.”

Do you think Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 will break all records?