Japan’s Kogakuin University, working with Fujitsu, has developed software that can scale smartphone video playback to UltraHD at 30fps, without consuming extra power. The new technology has been used in the ‘Xevic’ image processor of Fujitsu’s new Arrows NX F-02H phone.
Image credit: Nikkei. Fujitsu’s phones (upper) with the non-linear signal processing method-based super-resolution technology turned on (right) and off (left). Other companies’ phones are shown below for comparison. Video displayed using the super-resolution technology had the highest resolution with a significant difference.
The software uses a method known as ‘non-linear signal processing’. A non-linear function is applied to edges, which are detected by applying a high-pass filter to input images. The data is then compressed and added to the original images. Because the system does not require repeated calculations, it is suitable for real-time processing.
According to the university, it is possible to raise the frame rate of video playback to 60fps without significant extra power draw. The technology, which is currently only being applied in Japan due to IP issues, can also be used in medical equipment and monitoring cameras.
