We are used to experiencing constant updates and innovations in the field of mobile technology, but something that nobody expected was to have an X-ray camera in the mobile phone. Although It is not exactly an “X-ray” vision as we know them but infrared cameras, which allow us to capture images through certain materials. Well, today we are going to see What is this technology, what is its use and what mobile phones come with these X-ray cameras?The list is short, but it is interesting nonetheless. Let's get to it.
What is an X-ray camera on a mobile phone and how does it work?
To understand how these systems work on mobile devices, it is important to clarify that they are not really X-ray cameras like those found in medical equipment in hospitals, for example. In reality, These phones use a infrared sensor which allows you to see through thin materials such as certain plastics and fabrics.
This is due, neither more nor less, to the absence of infrared filter in these cameras, a component normally present to block this light and prevent interference in image quality. That is why, thanks to this technology, these smartphones can “see” through thin layers, capturing the internal structure of some objects such as remote controls or other electronic devices.
While it's an interesting visual effect, its usefulness is limited when it comes to capturing clear, detailed images on a day-to-day basis. So, What is an “X-ray” camera really used for?
What is the use of an “X-ray” camera on a mobile phone?
After testing this functionality with one of these phones for a few hours, the Xiaomi Mi 8, I discovered that Its uses are quite limited, although some are surprisingly useful as You can see the inside of some devices, like the remote control of the TV, without taking them apart. It basically looks like the devices with transparent cases, something like we see the Nothing Phone 2 or, if you are more experienced, the Gameboys with transparent cases.
Plus, you can take some pretty peculiar photos that will blow your friends away. But let's be honest, Don't expect to see through walls or thick clothing. This technology Only works with very fine and specific materials. So it really has very limited utility.
Models that have incorporated this technology
This technology is so unusual that Few phones have included it in their camera system. Currently, very few brands manufacture devices with this feature, and some have stopped manufacturing their models with infrared. Here are some of the mobile phones with X-ray cameras, or rather, infrared.
- CMF Phone 1 by Nothing: The CMF Phone 1 is one of the few recent models that still retains this feature. Its design and the possibility of accessing the infrared camera have generated interest, especially among users looking for unconventional functions. However, It works with a camera of only 2MP.
- OnePlus 8 Pro: This was one of the first devices to popularize the camera with Photochrom filter, allowing you to see through thin plastics and fabrics. Although OnePlus limited the camera functionality shortly after its launch due to privacy concerns, the model remains known for this curiosity.
- Xiaomi Mi 8 and Pocophone F1:Although Xiaomi and Pocophone launched their models with more basic infrared capabilities than the CMF Phone 1 or the OnePlus 8 Pro, technology enthusiasts They took advantage of this feature to experiment with this type of photography..
Is it worth looking for a mobile phone with an infrared camera?
If you're a tech geek like me, you'll probably love showing off this feature at family gatherings. But let's face it: It's more of a toy than a useful tool.Most people won't even know they have this feature on their phone, and those who do will use it a couple of times to impress their friends and then forget about it.
I honestly don't expect to see this technology in many phones anytime soon. Manufacturers are more interested in improving the quality of normal photos than in allowing us to see through plastics. Although who knows, maybe one day they will find a truly useful application for this technology and we will see it again on more devices.
For now, if you are lucky enough to have a mobile phone with this feature, Have fun exploring your house like an X-ray detective. And of course, respect other people's privacy, nobody wants to have their photo taken without permission, much less with A camera that sees behind the clothes.