Gimbal in phone camera module – Image stability tech explained

Smartphone camera technology still has some scope for improvements when it comes to achieving DSLR camera-like photography. Lately, we saw the periscope architecture for phones which allows for flat-plane movement of the lens using an L-shaped tunnel design. This brings hyper-zoom levels to the smartphone cameras which have limitations in the zoom lens movement. Huawei brought this innovative camera technology to the P30 Pro last year and then other manufacturers like Samsung followed the footsteps with their flagship Galaxy S20 Ultra

Now, in 2020 yet another innovative smartphone camera technology embraces us in the form of Vivo X50 Pro. The smartphone overcomes the space and lens movement constrictions to bring physical gimbal stabilization which overshadows the current optical image stabilization (OIS) tech – promising super steady photo and video output – even during excessive phone movement. For example, while running, walking down the stairs or shooting a video exploring the rough terrain of the mountains.

Just like the periscope lens, the smartphone camera gimbal lens is a first for any mobile device. Vivo revealed this technology at the beginning of the year in the form of Apex 2020 concept phone. The Chinese company claims that the gimbal system has a 300 percent bump in performance over the current optical image stabilization.