Beyond Pixels: Transformative Journey of AWB
Automatic White Balance (AWB) technology, a seemingly subtle yet pivotal aspect of imaging devices, has undergone a century-long evolution. From its roots in Max Planck's quantum theory to recent innovations by companies like Spectricity, AWB has played a crucial role in shaping how we capture and perceive the world through cameras. Beyond its impact on photography, advanced AWB's advancements hold promise for a spectrum of applications, from enhancing medical diagnostics to contributing to the field of artificial intelligence.
Understanding AWB
At its core, AWB operates as the intelligent guide for color temperature adjustments in images, ensuring that whites remain truly white, regardless of ambient lighting conditions. Max Planck, a notable figure in quantum physics and a Nobel laureate in Physics in 1918, played a pivotal role in laying the theoretical groundwork for AWB. Commissioned by electricity providers in the late 1800s to enhance the brilliance of light bulbs with minimal energy consumption, Planck developed a model linking the color of light to the temperature of a theoretical black body. This model detailed the progression of emitted light, transitioning from warm hues around 1500° Kelvin to pristine white light at approximately 5000° Kelvin and culminating in cooler tones above 15000° Kelvin.
Planck's theoretical model found a digital translation with the establishment of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) in 1931. The CIE Color Space, a milestone in color science, comprehensively mapped all colors perceptible to the human eye. Within this expansive color space, the Planckian Locus emerged—a guiding trajectory based on temperature. This locus paved the way for the color temperature sliders ubiquitous in modern imaging software, allowing nuanced adjustments aligning with the temperature-based color transitions observed in Planck's original model.
The integration of Planck's theories into digital photography marked a transformative journey. From theoretical concepts rooted in quantum physics, AWB evolved into a fundamental tool in a photographer's kit. The transition from film to digital pixels prompted recalibration of AWB algorithms to meet the challenges and opportunities of the digital canvas. This historical odyssey—from Planck's theoretical groundwork to the present—signifies not just the evolution of a tool but also illustrates the symbiotic relationship between scientific ingenuity and technological progress. AWB has become a technological language, shaping the narrative of our visual experiences and standing as a testament to the persistent pursuit of accurate color representation in the ever-evolving realm of photography.
Challenges with Traditional AWB
AWB has undoubtedly been a revolutionary force in photography, ensuring that images present accurate color tones. However, the journey hasn't been without its hurdles. One of the primary challenges lies in the variability of lighting conditions encountered in real-world scenarios. Traditional AWB algorithms, while adept at adjusting color temperature, can falter when faced with complex lighting situations, leading to inaccuracies in color representation.
The subtleties of ambient light, whether it be the warm glow of indoor tungsten lights, the cool tones of overcast outdoor scenes, or the mixed lighting conditions often found in indoor environments, present a formidable challenge. AWB algorithms rely on predefined rules and assumptions, and their performance may decline when confronted with unconventional or dynamic lighting situations. This limitation is especially critical in professional settings where precise color accuracy is paramount.
Moreover, the reliance on RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color channels, a standard in many traditional AWB implementations, can sometimes fall short in capturing the full spectrum of colors present in a scene. This can result in slight but perceptible color inaccuracies, particularly in situations where the lighting contains unique hues or when photographing subjects with diverse skin tones. As industries increasingly demand high-quality imaging for applications beyond photography, such as medical diagnostics or industrial analysis, addressing these challenges becomes imperative.
The continuous evolution of AWB technology seeks to overcome these hurdles. Advanced sensors, multispectral imaging, and machine learning algorithms are at the forefront of innovations designed to enhance the adaptability and precision of AWB in diverse and challenging lighting environments. As we witness advancements pioneered by companies like Spectricity, it becomes evident that the challenges posed by traditional AWB are not insurmountable, but rather opportunities for growth and improvement in the field of accurate color representation.
Spectricity’s Paradigm Shift in AWB
Embarking on a paradigm shift in AWB, Spectricity emerges as a leader, redefining the boundaries of color accuracy in imaging. At the heart of this innovation is Spectricity's S1 spectral sensor, representing the culmination of years of research and development. Unlike traditional AWB sensors, the S1 introduces multispectral capabilities, allowing it to capture the full visible and near-infrared range with unparalleled fidelity.
The key breakthrough lies in the miniaturization of the multispectral camera, making it feasible for integration into smartphones and other consumer devices. Spectricity's S1, set to be the first "miniaturized" and "mass-manufacturable" mobile unit, addresses a longstanding challenge in the industry.
Jonathan Borremans, Chief Technology Officer at Spectricity, sheds light on the transformative nature of the S1. He explains that even high-end smartphone cameras are, in essence, "color blind," relying on algorithms to estimate lighting conditions for accurate color representation. The S1, equipped with advanced spectral technology, sidesteps the limitations of traditional RGB coding, enabling it to discern true white balance in every hue.
Real World Applications of Advanced AWB Technology
The integration of advanced AWB technology, such as innovations like the S1 sensor in smartphones, reveals transformative possibilities, reshaping our understanding of color representation. It defines an era where color accuracy becomes integral to our multifaceted visual experiences across a broad range of industries and applications.
Cosmetics Industry
Unlocking True Color Representation
In the cosmetics industry, the search for accurate color representation is paramount. Current AWB applications in cosmetics photography ensure that product images truly reflect their colors, assisting consumers in making informed choices online. However, with the integration of advanced AWB technology, such as Spectricity's S1 sensor, the possibilities are expanded. Cosmetic companies can now precisely measure skin tones, enabling accurate rendering of pictures that reflect skin tones authentically. This capability is a game-changer for matching skin tones with the right foundation, lipstick shade, hair dye, enabling virtual try-ons of makeup, and ultimately empowering consumers to make the right purchasing decisions.
Healthcare and Medical Imaging
Advancing Diagnostics with Spectral Insights
In healthcare, the demand for accurate color extends beyond aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in medical imaging. Traditional AWB has made significant contributions to fields like pathology, where accurate color depiction is vital for diagnostic accuracy. With the emergence of advanced AWB technologies like Spectricity's S1 sensor, the potential applications in healthcare become even more profound. The S1 sensor's multispectral capabilities has the potential to capture minute spectral information related to biological components. For instance, it could aid clinicians in detecting skin cancers, such as melanoma, by analyzing specific spectral signatures linked to the disease. The sensor's ability to measure factors like blood volume, oxygen levels, and moisture in the skin opens avenues for non-invasive diagnostics. This has implications not only for dermatology but also for broader medical imaging applications, bringing a new dimension to the intersection of technology and healthcare.
Authentication and Security
Safeguarding Against Counterfeits
The integration of advanced AWB technology introduces a groundbreaking layer of security and authenticity verification, particularly in areas prone to counterfeiting. While traditional AWB has been instrumental in ensuring accurate color reproduction for security features on banknotes or identification documents, Spectricity's S1 sensor, with its advanced AWB capabilities, elevates this process to new heights. The sensor's precise calibration of color temperatures enhances the accuracy of detecting specific spectral signatures crucial for authentication. In security documents like passports or identity cards, the S1 sensor becomes a sophisticated tool to identify the unique spectral signature associated with the document's authenticity, providing an unparalleled level of protection against counterfeit materials and unauthorized reproductions. This innovative application extends beyond document security to product authentication, making it a powerful tool in the battle against counterfeiting across various industries.
Product Development and E-commerce
Precision in Visual Merchandising
In the dynamic landscape of e-commerce, consumers often rely heavily on visual information when making purchasing decisions. Advanced AWB technology, exemplified by innovations like Spectricity's S1 sensor, is set to redefine the consumer experience. Current AWB applications contribute to maintaining color fidelity in product images, aiding consumers in accurate decision-making. However, with the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as the S1 sensor, the possibilities extend beyond mere color accuracy. Consumers can expect a more immersive and reliable representation of products online, where the S1 sensor's multispectral imaging capabilities capture subtle nuances that traditional cameras might overlook. This heightened accuracy in visual representation enhances the consumer's online shopping experience, allowing for more informed and satisfying purchasing decisions. Consistency in color representation becomes integral, fostering trust and confidence among consumers in the authenticity and quality of products showcased online.
Advanced VR and AR Realism
Immersive Photorealistic Experiences
Advanced AWB technology is reshaping the future of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) with an unprecedented level of color accuracy and lighting precision, empowering AR and VR developers with new tools to craft scenes with unparalleled realism. By precisely capturing colors and optimizing lighting conditions, AWB seamlessly integrates virtual objects into real-world surroundings, providing greater immersion and believability. This advancement enhances AR and vR interactions, allowing users to engage with virtual elements in a manner that feels natural and real. From architectural visualization to virtual product demonstrations, AWB opens new doors for creators, pushing the boundaries of possibilities within augmented environments.
Conclusion
As we trace the evolution of AWB, from Planck's pioneering theoretical work to its current technological advancements, a story emerges marked by ingenuity and an unwavering pursuit of visual precision and vitality. Overcoming challenges inherent in traditional AWB, recent advancements, such as Spectricity's S1 sensor, are reshaping industries. Beyond resolving existing hurdles, these innovations unlock transformative possibilities for the future. Standing at the crossroads of historical groundwork and cutting-edge technology, advanced AWB promises to usher in a new era, seamlessly integrating color accuracy as a fundamental and authentic aspect of our diverse visual storytelling.
Want to witness it yourself?
Live demonstrations of our technology and S1 camera will be featured at the Belgian Pavilion of MWC 2024 from 26 to 29 February (Hall 7, Stand 7G51). Please join us to experience this remarkable camera first-hand.
Don’t miss our exclusive workshop on 28 February, where experts, including Axel Clouet from Yole, Pierre-Yves Maitre from DXOMARK, Troels Marstrand from Revea, Jonathan Borremans from Spectricity and others will provide insights into the intricacies of multispectral imaging, its applications, and the future it holds for various industries. It is an opportunity to understand how the technology and our S1 can revolutionize your specific field. Seats are limited, so, register early to secure your attendance: register here. To schedule a meeting with us at MWC, please reach out to us at [email protected].
Stay connected!
For more information about Spectricity, explore our website and connect with us on LinkedIn (#Spectricity) for updates and insights.
See you in Barcelona!
Glenn Vandevoorde Appointed as CEO of Spectricity, Pioneering Multispectral Imaging Technology
Mechelen, Belgium, January 26, 2024 — Spectricity, an innovator in multispectral imaging technology, has appointed Glenn Vandevoorde as its new Chief Executive Officer. In this role, Glenn will spearhead the company's strategic vision, innovation, and global growth.
As a seasoned tech industry leader, Glenn brings with him a wealth of experience and a track record of transformative success. Glenn’s tenure of various CEO roles in start-ups marks his ability to drive technological advancements in the semiconductor industry. In joining Spectricity, Glenn embarks on a new chapter, poised to lead the company's charge in revolutionizing color imaging through its ground-breaking S1 multispectral camera.
“Leading this visionary team, our mission is to reshape the future of imaging technology. Spectricity is primed to redefine industry standards, and I am honored to guide us towards a future where each pixel narrates a richer and more compelling story.” - Glenn Vandevoorde, Chief Executive Officer, Spectricity
Glenn's appointment underscores a strategic move as Spectricity enters an exciting new phase of scaling innovation into the market across diverse industries and applications.
“As we enter a new phase of scaling innovation, Glenn’s leadership will play a pivotal role in unlocking the full potential of our multispectral imaging technology across diverse industries and applications. This marks an exciting chapter for Spectricity, and we are confident Glenn will lead us to unprecedented success.” - Pieter Vorenkamp, Chairman of the Board, Spectricity
Spectricity thanks outgoing CEO Vincent Mouret for his outstanding leadership, directing the company’s research and product development towards this pivotal point of scaling, and releasing its first product into the market.
About Spectricity
Spectricity, a Belgium-based fabless company founded in 2018, stands at the forefront of spectral sensing solutions crafted with advanced CMOS technologies. Fueled by venture capital and an exclusively-licensed patent portfolio from imec, a global leader in nano-electronics and digital technologies, Spectricity pioneers innovations designed for high-volume production and integration into consumer and mobile devices.
With a commitment to sensing beyond the visible, Spectricity's vision is to enhance life through unparalleled spectral information, anytime, anywhere. Its mission revolves around enabling the widespread adoption of spectral imaging by seamlessly integrating miniaturized sensing solutions. Spectricity's disruptive innovations, protected by a comprehensive collection of patents, strive for accessibility and affordability, opening doors to new possibilities in various consumer markets.
See the world in true colors: the first smartphone with multispectral imaging camera makes its global debut at CES
Las Vegas, January 8, 2024 — Spectricity, the multispectral imaging solution provider for high-volume and mobile devices, is showcasing its ground-breaking color-matching technology by integrating the first multispectral camera in a smartphone enabling ‘true colors’ on smartphone photos.
- Spectricity has integrated the first multispectral camera in a smartphone
Most of us have been disappointed for some time with our smartphone’s inability to replicate the colors we see, whether in a less-than-perfect picture of an amazing sunset, a poor skin tone, or a mismatched paint sample in the DIY store. This is because smartphones are, in essence, color-blind. They are unable to measure color accurately, due to faulty automatic white balancing that wrongly estimates the white point. These hopelessly random colors will be a thing of the past thanks to Spectricity's multispectral camera.
- True colors all the time, more accurate than the naked eye
Spectricity’s crucial breakthrough has been in its revolutionary “S1” multispectral camera which provides the information necessary for accurate color reproduction. It measures the spectrum of light at 16 wavelengths, in every pixel of the camera. This results in a better white point assessment, which in turn delivers true consistent colors. The camera can also assess colors more accurately than the naked eye giving a true color representation of everything from paint to skin tone. This spectral camera ends all guesswork: colors on smartphone photos will now be true to reality.
- Ready for global breakthrough: this camera can be in any smartphone within 2 years
The delivery of consistent color is an issue recognized and acknowledged in the industry. With photography and camera capability being major drivers for smartphone upgrades, Spectricity’s innovation, which could be in every smartphone within two years, has created a great deal of interest. Currently being tested by almost every major smartphone manufacturer, it is set to have a significant commercial impact on the consumer devices industry.
Its application extends beyond mere aesthetics and far into e-commerce, as the development will allow more accurate assessment of the color of online purchases as well as true skin tone and foundation matching, virtual make-up try-on, accurate lipstick, hair dye matching, and expert advice from your phone.
Furthermore, the application of Spectricity's camera offers far-reaching possibilities in the medical field: for example, online tracking of diseases and providing advice in the area of health and well-being can be improved with it.
Vincent Mouret, CEO of Spectricity, comments: “This camera brings unprecedented color accuracy from laboratory instruments to phones. In most cases, the detected color cannot be distinguished from the true color with the naked eye. Finally, your pictures can be color-consistent, and you can measure and save the true color of objects or skin with your phone. This opens the door to e-commerce for remote personalized cosmetic and retail use cases.”
Jonathan Borremans, CTO of Spectricity adds: “Every smartphone vendor confirms the problem and is struggling to solve the issue. Spectricity is in pole position to deliver the technology to solve the issue. By 2026 these spectral cameras are expected to become mainstream in every phone, as predicted by Yole Development."
Yole Development is a leading market research, technology, and strategy analysis company.
About Spectricity
Spectricity was incorporated in 2018 and is backed by international VCs to bring spectral imaging to mobile devices. With 35 employees, Spectricity has offices in Belgium, the USA, Taipei, Shanghai and Malaysia.
The S1 is currently under evaluation by major smartphone makers. EVKs are available for device manufacturers driving large volumes.
Spectricity introduces true colors with the S1-M camera module for mobile devices
Barcelona, ESP, February 27, 2023 – After introducing the S1, the first sensor to deliver true color through a smartphone camera, Spectricity is now launching a miniature camera module using this cutting-edge technology. This first miniature, mobile device-ready multispectral image sensor, was introduced as a groundbreaking new technology at CES last month. The technology is expected to be adopted in all smartphones coming years.
The new camera module, announced at MWC in Barcelona, integrates the S1 image sensor with an optimized custom miniature lens for spectral imaging in a compact module. The camera module is compatible with mobile devices and smartphone integration thanks to its truly miniature form factor.
Spectricity also announces a partnership with high-volume camera module manufacturer Namuga. Tae Youn Won, the CEO of Namuga says: “We are very excited to work with Spectricity to develop and manufacture the next-level camera module with the S1 sensor. One can’t imagine modern personal life today without sharing daily content. Now, this can be taken to a next level with Spectricity’s improvement in color fidelity combined with Namuga’s experience in manufacturing and module development.”
Spectricity is delighted to partner with Namuga says Vincent Mouret, CEO of Spectricity: “We are excited to work with Namuga’s experienced team for this high-volume product. A high-volume camera module is essential for mobile device integration. We expect the first smartphone models with the S1 to be released as soon as in 2024 and all smartphones to include our technology within the coming years.”
The smartphone camera will no longer be colorblind
The S1 spectral image sensor solves color fidelity issues of smartphone cameras and can measure true color through the spectral signature of an object.
The S1 was recognized as a technology breakthrough at the recent edition of CES: it’s the first truly miniaturized, mass-manufacturable mobile spectral image sensor. At the same time, it captures the full visible and near-infrared range at video rates, required for mobile applications. It’s suited as a companion sensor to the main cameras in a smartphone.
Jonathan Borremans, CTO: “The S1-M camera module marks another phenomenal advance over any multispectral camera on the market. No one to date has managed to fit these specs into a miniature module. The S1-M can be integrated into any mobile device.”
Spectral imaging will fix the poor camera color fidelity of smartphones and consumer devices. Despite all advances in image sensor and camera technology, smartphones still cannot capture true color as they are limited by 3 color channels: red, green, and blue.
Jonathan Borremans: “Essentially, even your high-end smartphone camera is color blind. The S1 uses richer spectral signature data, resulting in much higher color fidelity in your pictures. We’re confident that spectral imaging will become essential in all devices including a camera.”
As part of the smartphone camera of the future, the S1 spectral camera sensor will drive innovation in consumer devices in personalized cosmetics, health and wellness, e-commerce, smart gardening, and authentication.
About Spectricity
Spectricity was incorporated in 2018 and is backed by international VCs to bring spectral imaging to mobile devices. Spectricity has offices in Belgium, the USA, Taipei, and Malaysia.
The S1 is currently under evaluation by major smartphone makers. EVKs are available for device manufacturers driving large volumes.
World premiere at CES: Spectricity spectral camera brings true colors to smartphone photos
Las Vegas, January 5, 2023 — At CES 2023, Spectricity introduces the S1, the first miniature, mobile device-ready multispectral image sensor. The first smartphones using the sensor are expected by 2024. Within two years, this technology is expected to be in all smartphones.
The S1 spectral image sensor solves color fidelity issues of smartphone cameras, and can measure true color through the spectral signature of an object.
The S1 is a technology breakthrough: it’s the first truly miniaturized, mass-manufacturable mobile spectral image sensor. At the same time, it captures the full visible and near-infrared range at video rates, required for mobile applications. It’s well suited as a companion sensor to the main cameras in a smartphone.
Jonathan Borremans, CTO Spectricity: "The S1 marks a phenomenal advance over any multispectral imager on the market. No one to date has managed to fit these specs into a miniature chip. The S1 can be integrated into any mobile device."
Currently, Spectricity is sampling the S1 to several smartphone manufacturers to be included in upcoming models.
Vincent Mouret, CEO: "’We are excited to announce this breakthrough; the first ever affordable mobile spectral imager. The release is a key milestone for Spectricity in its ambition to serve smartphone markets, and to pursue our mission to enable mass adoption of spectral sensing in mobile devices. We expect the first smartphone models with the S1 to be released in 2024, and we expect all smartphones to include our technology within the coming years."
"RGB": how spectral imaging brings true colors to smartphones
Spectral imaging will fix poor camera color fidelity of smartphones and consumer devices, a root cause for inaccurate photo colors but also poorly rendered skin colors. This will make camera technology more reliable and more inclusive.
Despite all advances in image sensor and camera technology, smartphones still cannot capture true color. Limited by 3 color channels ("RGB" or red, green, blue), the automatic white balancing (AWB) algorithms often struggle to accurately resolve the white point of a scene correctly. Consequently, they can fail to get the colors right.
Jonathan Borremans, CTO: “Essentially, even your high-end smartphone camera is color blind. The S1 uses richer spectral signature data, resulting in much higher color fidelity in your pictures. We're confident that spectral imaging will become an essential component in all devices that include a camera."
The smartphone camera of the future: The S1 will drive innovation in consumer devices
The S1 will have a significant commercial impact in the consumer devices industry:
- Research shows that photography and camera capability are major drivers for smartphone upgrades
- Personalized cosmetics are already a 40 billion dollar market. Spectral imaging will drive a transition from retail to home, and expert advice from your mobile device, adoption and customer satisfaction in this category.
- Medical applications and use cases will be unlocked with spectral imaging
- E-commerce: better color rendering will support online commerce
- New applications and use cases become possible for authentication (face ID) and even smart gardening
About Spectricity
Spectricity was incorporated in 2018 and is backed by international VCs to bring spectral imaging to mobile devices. With 35 employees, Spectricity has offices in Belgium, the USA, Taipei and Malaysia.
The S1 is currently under evaluation by major smartphone makers. As of January 2023, EVKs are available for device manufacturers driving large volumes.
Spectricity receives €3 million grant from Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Agentschap Innoveren & Ondernemen - VLAIO)
We are pleased to announce that Spectricity has been awarded a €3 million grant by Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Agentschap Innoveren & Ondernemen - VLAIO) to help prepare Spectricity’s spectral sensor R&D for mobile devices. VLAIO stimulates innovation in Flanders and finances R&D driven by entrepreneurial Flemish companies.
Our CEO, Vincent Mouret, said:
“Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship has supported Spectricity since the beginning and has been instrumental in our research and development trajectory. With the new grant, VLAIO will help us accelerate our research on advanced consumer camera modules and AI to enable smartphone market areas. This takes us closer to achieving our objective of supporting mass adoption of spectral sensing in mobile devices.”
Spectricity Deploys Proprietary Technology at X-FAB to Bring Spectral Imaging to Mobile Devices
Tessenderlo and Mechelen, Belgium, June 28, 2022 — X-FAB Silicon Foundries SE, the leading analog/mixed-signal and specialty foundry, and Spectricity, a fabless semiconductor company specializing in the development of multispectral imaging technology have collaborated on a unique imaging solution. Proprietary spectral imaging technology from Spectricity has been installed at X-FAB’s high-volume manufacturing facilities. This will, for the first time, enable low-cost manufacturing of spectral image sensors for use in mobile devices.
Spectricity’s patented spectral sensor solution is based on the integration of small, pixelated spectral filters onto CMOS image sensors in the visible and NIR spectral range. Inclusion of 16 or more high-quality narrowband channels is possible. Through its deployment, X-FAB is the only foundry enabling volume CMOS production of such small spectral pixels, making it and Spectricity well positioned to meet the demands of the mobile handset OEMs. The compactness and high spectral density of the resulting solution provides both high spatial- and spectral resolution sensing – allowing opportunities in smartphone, IoT, healthcare and wearables to be addressed.
Incorporation of spectral camera modules into mobile devices is part of an ongoing trend to add advanced sensing functionality. Spectral imagers will be able to capture image data across many spectral channels, beyond the conventional red, green and blue color channels. This will allow measuring of objects’ spectral signatures. Among the applications that will benefit are image acquisition where more accurate auto white balancing is needed, personalized cosmetics and skincare, remote healthcare, and smart gardening/agriculture.
According to Vincent Mouret, CEO of Spectricity: “Successful installation of our technology, which was originally pioneered by imec, at X-FAB’s volume production facilities is a key milestone for Spectricity in our ambition to serve the global smartphone market. This takes us closer to achieving our objective of supporting mass adoption of spectral sensing in mobile devices.”
Jörg Doblaski, CTO of X-FAB, comments: “We have been really impressed with the engineering skills of the Spectricity team, and are excited about the successful cooperation with an innovative European company enabling spectral imager products. Transfer of their technology has been accomplished within a short timeframe, with initial lots already meeting the required specifications.”
Spectricity plans to start sampling its spectral imaging solution fabricated via X-FAB later in 2022.
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About X-FAB
X-FAB is the leading analog/mixed-signal and MEMS foundry group manufacturing silicon wafers for
automotive, industrial, consumer, medical and other applications. Its customers worldwide benefit from the
highest quality standards, manufacturing excellence and innovative solutions by using X-FAB’s modular
CMOS and SOI processes in geometries ranging from 1.0 µm to 130 nm, and its special silicon carbide and
MEMS long-lifetime processes. X-FAB’s analog-digital integrated circuits (mixed-signal ICs), sensors and
micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) are manufactured at six production facilities in Germany, France,
Malaysia and the U.S. X-FAB employs about 4,000 people worldwide. Learn more at xfab.com.
About Spectricity
Spectricity is a fabless company headquartered in Belgium developing and manufacturing spectral sensing
solutions using CMOS technologies. These solutions are designed for high-volume production, and targeted
at use in consumer and mobile devices. The company was incorporated in 2018, and is backed by venture
capital investment. Its technology builds on an exclusively-licensed patent portfolio from imec, a world-
leading R&D and innovation hub in nano-electronics and digital technologies. The technology and the
products powered by it are the fruit of more than 15 years of research and development. Learn more
at spectricity.com.
Spectricity Raises €14 Million Series B Funding as it Accelerates Plans to Deliver Industry Leading Hyperspectral Sensing to Mobile and Consumer Devices
Mechelen, Belgium, August 3, 2021 – Spectricity, a leading provider of hyperspectral sensing solutions for mobile and consumer devices, announced today a €14 million ($16M US) Series B funding round to further accelerate the development and mass production of hyperspectral sensors and imagers for high-volume, low-cost applications from wearables to smartphones and IoT devices.
Hyperspectral sensing allows devices to “see” beyond what the naked eye can see. The sensor can tell you your heartbeat, the amount of oxygen in your blood or the hydration of your skin, while hyperspectral imagers can be used to perfectly match your skintone to cosmetics or to determine whether your food is fresh. Spectricity’s patented, spectral sensing technology is the only one in the world that can make professional grade sensor and imager solutions small and low power enough to fit a smartphone or a wearable device. This unique technology will bring a wide array of health, cosmetic, food and augmented reality applications to the pockets and/or the wrists of the consumers.
Leading global investors including AtlanticBridge, Capricorn Fusion China Fund, and Shanghai Semiconductor Equipment and Material Fund (SSMEF) invested in this Series B round alongside Belgium Series A investors imec.xpand and XTRION. This round brings Spectricity to €20 million in total funding to date.
“This is a major milestone for Spectricity and the deployment of our chip size hyperspectral sensor and imager solutions for mass market mobile devices and applications,” said Vincent Mouret, CEO of Spectricity. “This new round of financing will enable us to significantly accelerate our high-volume manufacturing, hire key talent and continue to expand our partnerships.”
Peter Vanbekbergen, partner at imec.xpand said: “The formation of Spectricity is a prime example of remarkable semiconductor innovation born in Europe, based on unique technology developed at imec. The best companies start with a great technology base, with founders coming together to identify a big problem and line up an expert investment team to help them succeed. As part of that team, we’re focused on providing Spectricity with unique value and networking.”
According to a recent March 2021 paper on the compact spectrometer systems market, emerging chip-size spectrometers are going to fuel growth to more than 300 million chips per year in 2024. New type spectrometers will be as small as semiconductor chips. (1)
“I am pleased to see Spectricity growing and closing their second financing round, three
years after its creation as imec spin-off,” said Luc Van den hove, President and CEO of imec. “Spectricity’s products are based on unique imec technology, and we will continue to maintain a strong link between our R&D and Spectricity’s development to enable a lasting competitive edge for Spectricity’s products.”
Following more than 10 years of research at imec, a world-leading R&D and innovation hub in nano-electronics and digital technologies, Spectricity was founded in 2018 by a team including research engineers of imec. Semiconductor industry veterans, CEO Vincent Mouret who joined the company last April and Chairman of the Board, Pieter Vorenkamp, ex-Senior Vice President of Broadcom, helped to productize the technology and scale the company.
About Spectricity
Spectricity is a fabless semiconductor company creating spectral sensing solutions for high-volume mobile and consumer devices, using low-cost CMOS technologies. Spectricity’s patented, spectral sensing technology enhances existing camera sensors by fusing data with other image and 3D sensors in the devices to provide augmented real-time data, advanced user-environment interfacing, and big data analysis. Spectricity’s miniaturized sensors enable completely new unimaginable applications from skin health to skin cosmetics and agricultural, AR, food analysis and more. www.spectricity.com
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