Canon announces the world's first 1 megapixel SPAD sensor (Again)

We have been following Canon's R&D in SPAD based sensors for the last 3 or so years. Canon has applied for multiple patents for SPAD sensors.

SPAD or Single Photon Avalanche Diode puts the photodiode into avalanche mode and then has the ability to count photons hitting the sensor.  There are problems with these sensors, as it's difficult when the sensor is oversaturated and photons arrive faster than the sensor can count, as well as other problems.  unlike a regular CMOS sensor, a SPAD sensor can be physically damaged if too many photons hit the sensor.

What is strange about this press release is that a year ago on June 24th, 2020, they announced the development of the sensor here.  But they call this press release the world's first 1MP SPAD sensor as well.

It's unknown what has changed between last year and this year to have this announcement, but it seems as if Canon is touting the increased pixel coverage to be 100% of the sensor, thus increasing the sensor's efficiency.  The speed of the sensor between the sensor now and the one back in June 24, 2020 is the same at 100 picoseconds.

You can see Canon's new press release here.

All in all, kind of a strange press release from Canon.