The Raspberry Pi Foundation has launched its Camera Module 3, a $25 add-on module for single board computers that includes fixed-focus optics and a powered autofocus.
There are four different variants of the module with both visible-light and infrared-sensitive options as well as standard or wide field of view (FOV) options.
The Raspberry Pi foundation partnered with Sony to include its back illuminated IMX708 sensor. This allows for higher resolution at 12 megapixels, a larger and more sensitive pixel design, and support for high dynamic range imaging.
The standard FOV variants provide 66°, which is a close to its 62° predecessor. Another variant includes the IMX708’s higher linear resolution that translates directly into higher angular resolution.
The Camera Module 3 is compatible with all Raspberry Pi single board computers with CSI connectors, except the Raspberry Pi 400 and the 2016 version of the Zero. The board dimensions and mounting-hole positions are identical to Camera Module 2.
The Camera Module 3 is supported by the libcamera software environment and by the libcamera-based Picamera2 beta under the Raspberry Pi OS Bullseye.
