Valens, onsemi Plan Integrated 3MP Automotive Camera Sensor

Valens Semiconductor and onsemi will develop a 3-megapixel automotive image sensor with built-in MIPI A-PHY connectivity, targeting cameras used in high-volume vehicle models. The companies say the design is intended to simplify camera systems and reduce component count.

The companies announced the collaboration on September 22. Valens’ SEC filing says the firms signed a license agreement on September 14, allowing onsemi to make and sell a specified next-generation sensor using Valens’ technology.

The license is non-exclusive, and Valens is entitled to royalties on the product. The filing does not disclose royalty rates, expected sales, or when the sensor may reach the market, leaving the potential revenue impact unclear.

MIPI A-PHY is a standard for high-speed connections between automotive sensors and other vehicle systems. Integrating the connectivity technology into onsemi’s image sensor could give automakers and parts suppliers a way to use the standard without a separate connectivity chip.

The 3MP target is aimed at a broad segment: Valens said most automotive image sensors are in the 1-to-3-megapixel range. The companies are positioning the product for existing camera demand as automakers also move toward higher-resolution systems.

For Valens, the agreement extends its A-PHY business beyond standalone connectivity chipsets and adds a licensing route tied to onsemi product sales. For onsemi, it adds an integrated camera option intended to streamline system design.

Investors have no disclosed launch date or financial forecast to assess yet. Product development, customer adoption and eventual unit sales will determine whether the collaboration generates meaningful royalties for Valens or expands onsemi’s automotive sensor business.