The 52MP Light L16 Compact Camera Offers a Glimpse of Next-Generation Photography

The 52MP Light L16 Compact Camera Offers a Glimpse of Next-Generation Photography

Last year, Apple purchased a small Israeli startup named LinX. The deal was kept fairly low-key, in part because the company being acquired was relatively unknown. The technology it had been working on, however, has the potential to revolutionize smartphone photography. Rather than using the traditional one-lens, one-sensor configuration, LinX had been using an array of cameras to build a bigger, better lit, less noisy photo. In the near future, an iPhone may benefit from this idea — but in the meantime, one of LinX’s former rivals has beaten Apple to the punch. The Light L16 is a pocket camera, with sixteen sensors, which outputs DSLR-quality, 52-megapixel images.

The back of the L16 is covered by an array of lenses, making it appear almost alien, with numerous digital eyes arranged in an apparently illogical layout. In fact, these sixteen camera units are very carefully placed. When you press the shutter button, ten of them simultaneously spring into action. Each camera unit produces a 13 megapixel image which is used in the construction of a much larger composite photo. Quite apart from the significantly higher resolution, this system allows the L16 to take in more light, and digitally reduce noise. It also means you can refocus images after you take them, just as with the Lytro.

Light3

Despite the relatively compact size of the L16, it is capable of producing photos that rival those from a flagship DSLR. There are three focal lengths to choose from — five of the camera units operate at 35mm, five at 70mm, and six at 150mm — thanks to “folded optics” lenses that use mirrors to fit telephoto reach into a small space. Apart from the shutter button, all the controls can be found on the five-inch touchscreen.

The 52MP Light L16 Compact Camera Offers a Glimpse of Next-Generation Photography

Light is currently offering the L16 for pre-order at $1299, which is $400 less than it will eventually retail for. With such a lofty price tag, it is just as well that Light is only making the L16 in limited quantities, although early adopters are likely to be tempted. More importantly, however, this multi-camera shows us what the future of pocketable photography might look like.

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

Keeping up with the latest developments in the cryptocurrency market is handy for investors looking to maximize their investments. Doing so enables you to make smart investment choices while maximizing profits. For that reason, we’re highlighting the top 4 cryptocurrency..
LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

I live near the sea and try to explore the depths whenever I can. Over the years, I’ve found that an underwater scooter is an excellent way to cover more mileage while I’m beneath the waves. So I was thrilled..
What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? OSS stands for Operational Support Systems. These software systems enable efficient and effective management of telecommunications services and network management. Telecommunications operators use such solutions. Today, many options make it easier to manage and connect..
HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

If I’m on the go all day, I hit up McDonald’s or Panera for lunch. Lately, however, I’ve been trying to cook more of my food at home. The trouble is, bringing casseroles and other cooked dishes with me has..
MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

As chief business development officer (CBDO) of Gadget Flow, I love witnessing new tech releases to the consumer market. At MWC 2024, I got the chance to experience firsthand some of the latest ideas and innovations that will impact our..
These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

Years ago, all it took to run a successful business was an innovative product that customers wanted. After that, everything else was secondary. You could succeed with relatively high prices. You could even get by with subpar customer service technologies...