Samsung Supplies Nanoprism Camera Tech to Rival Companies

In a move that might surprise some, Samsung has started supplying its high-performance nanoprism image sensors to rival companies. Samsung’s ISOCELL JNP 50MP sensor powers the selfie camera on Xiaomi’s Civi 5 Pro, a photography-focused smartphone. This sensor has the industry-first nanoprism structure within the micro-lens.

While Samsung and Xiaomi will continue to battle it out in smartphone sales, this partnership shows how collaboration in components can be mutually beneficial — and how Samsung is leveraging every opportunity to expand its tech empire beyond devices.

Samsung is now supplying its nanoprism image sensors to rivals

Samsung is a global leader in the image sensor industry. Its ISOCELL JNP sensor boasts a nanoprism structure that improves low-light photography by capturing more light per pixel. The company is supplying this advanced sensor for Xiaomi’s Civi 5 Pro. The 50MP sensor has a 0.64-micron pixel size and 1/2.8-inch optical format.

This marks the first time Samsung is supplying the ISOCELL JNP sensor to a competing smartphone brand, signaling a broader push by the Korean tech giant to expand its influence in the image sensor space — an area currently dominated by Sony. The new sensor can share light from different wavelengths between neighboring sensors to enhance image brightness and sharpness in low-light conditions.

Samsung must be hoping this deal with Xiaomi to boost its image sensor business. According to market research firm Omdia, Sony held a commanding 51.6% share of the global image sensor market in 2024. Samsung trailed in second place with just 15.4%, despite having made significant advancements in sensor technology in recent years.

The Korean firm reportedly began mass production of the ISOCELL JNP sensor in Q2 2025 and has since ramped up shipments to Xiaomi. Industry watchers believe this partnership could be just the beginning. Samsung is expected to court additional OEMs — including North American tech firms — as early as next year, further diversifying its client base and pushing for greater market share.