According to information transmitted by a Chinese source, the Huawei Nova 16 series could bring an unusual solution in the front camera segment, a 1:1 square sensor, with a strong focus on photography and extremely stable video recording. This approach allows users, even when holding the phone vertically, to get a frame that was previously only possible when the device was in a horizontal position.
Recent rumors indicate that OPPO is also considering the use of a 1:1 sensor for the front camera, suggesting that this concept could expand beyond a single manufacturer. However, the pioneer in the commercial application of this solution is allegedly Apple with the upcoming iPhone 17 series.
Square sensor as a practical, not a visual improvement
Although it is not a revolutionary change in image quality, the 1:1 square front sensor brings a very concrete and practical advantage in everyday use. The biggest novelty is the possibility of the so-called “vertical recording of a horizontal frame”, that is, recording a wide angle without the need to turn the phone to a horizontal position. This makes recording selfie videos with one hand much easier, as well as video calls and creating content for social networks.
With the help of an AI algorithm, the camera automatically expands the field of view and keeps the subjects in the center of the frame, thus improving the stability and composition of the image. This approach is especially useful for vloggers and users who often record video on the move, as it combines practicality and smart frame processing.
Although the square sensor requires a slightly larger physical space in the phone case, the gain in user experience is considered very significant. However, the current situation in the supply chain of such sensors is still not ideal. Manufacturing is likely to require special custom orders, which can increase costs and result in a higher price for the final device.
If this information turns out to be correct, the Huawei Nova 16 series could offer one of the most practical upgrades to the front camera in the mid-range segment, focusing on the real needs of users, not just numbers on paper.