Demystifying the 3D depth camera of IphoneX

Apple's world-renowned conference took place at the Jobs Theater in the newly built Apple Park. On the 10th anniversary of the event, Apple unveiled its most powerful Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular and Apple TV 4K to date. The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus were also released as scheduled, but the real highlight was "One more thing"—the long-awaited iPhone X. Priced at $999, this special edition model offered incredible value for money. The iPhone X featured a powerful A11 64-bit 4-core processor, a stunning 5.8-inch Super Retina display with a resolution of 2436 x 1125, a rear vertical camera, wireless charging, improved battery life, and a sleek new design. But what truly set it apart was the inclusion of 3D structured light technology, enabling Face ID for facial recognition, unlocking, and even face payments. This breakthrough marked a major shift in mobile phone design and had a significant impact on the entire smart device industry.
3D depth camera supports Face ID for unlocking and payment

**Does the iPhone X use a 3D structured light depth camera?** From the presentation, it was clear that the front-facing camera on the iPhone X could capture depth information, which is different from standard 2D imaging. There are three main technologies for 3D imaging: structured light, TOF (Time of Flight), and stereo vision. Based on the details shared during the event, Apple used a structured light system. This method projects over 30,000 points of light onto the user’s face, which the camera then captures and processes using advanced algorithms. This confirmed that Apple opted for the structured light solution.

iPhone X front 3D structured light camera module
Projected light information, collected 3D data, and image recognition
Apple has always been known for its attention to detail and pursuit of excellence, making the choice of structured light a logical one. Compared to other 3D technologies, structured light offers better performance at a lower cost, making it ideal for consumer electronics.
Comparison of three 3D imaging technologies
**What can other manufacturers do if Apple blocks their access to this technology?** Apple has historically kept its technology closed, and since acquiring PrimeSense in 2013, it has dominated the structured light market. As a result, many domestic manufacturers have struggled to find alternatives. Some have faced challenges like poor mass production, low-quality images, and wasted R&D time. This delay can lead to missed opportunities in product development. **Who are the reliable 3D structured light depth camera manufacturers?** Obi Zhongguang is a leading company in this field. As a top performer in Shenzhen's Peacock Plan, it launched the Astra, Astra Pro, and Astra mini 3D depth cameras as early as 2015. It received strategic investment from MediaTek in 2016 and is now one of only four global companies capable of mass-producing consumer-grade 3D structured light sensors. Obi Zhongguang's products support multiple functions, including face recognition, gesture control, skeleton tracking, 3D mapping, and obstacle avoidance. They are widely used in smartphones, tablets, AR/VR, robotics, and smart home systems. **Which companies have used Obi Zhongguang’s 3D cameras?** Alipay uses Obi Zhongguang’s Astra series for face-to-face payments. HP’s Sprout2 all-in-one PC also uses the same technology. Additionally, the Qihan Sambo robot relies on Obi Zhongguang’s 3D cameras for its machine vision system. Over 1,500 companies worldwide use Obi Zhongguang’s 3D sensors for product development, including major TV manufacturers, mobile operators, Tmall Magic Box, financial institutions, and over 500 robotics companies. Top corporations like HP and Bosch have also partnered with them. Recently, Obi Zhongguang announced a new generation of structured light 3D sensor cameras. These are smaller, more powerful, and consume less energy, making them ideal for phones, tablets, and notebooks. This innovation is expected to significantly influence future mobile terminal designs.

Obi Zhongguang mobile phone 3D camera product Astra P

Astra series depth camera product map and detailed parameters
Obi Zhongguang has developed its own core 3D computing chip, deep learning algorithms, and SDKs. With over 300 patents filed globally, the company has a strong R&D team covering everything from chip design to application development. As a leader in AI vision combined with hardware and software, Obi Zhongguang has applied its 3D sensor technology in financial payments, smart TVs, robotics, and security. With ongoing advancements in 3D structured light sensing, the company continues to explore new applications such as mobile devices, retail, and 3D fitting.

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