AI and driver monitoring systems specialist Smart Eye has teamed up with Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation to integrate the Smart Eye interior sensing and biometric authentication software with Sony’s newly released IMX775 RGB-IR image sensor.
By bringing together Sony’s high-performance imaging technology with Smart Eye’s AI-driven interior sensing and iris authentication, the collaboration helps auto makers meet changing global safety standards while enabling secure access to personalized features, digital services and in-car payments.
Sony’s new IMX775 image sensor combines RGB and infrared imaging on a single chip, offering a 5MP resolution with 2.1 μm pixels. With strong sensitivity at 940nm near-infrared wavelengths and a wide 110dB dynamic range in RGB, the sensor delivers high-quality images in any lighting condition.
When paired with Smart Eye’s advanced algorithms, this enables critical driver monitoring features such as distraction and drowsiness detection, as well as occupant monitoring for posture, seatbelt use and body position – meeting growing regulatory demands including the EU’s General Safety Regulation and Euro NCAP’s 2026 protocols.
In addition, Sony’s sensor provides integrated cybersecurity functions that support authentication at the hardware level. Combined with Smart Eye’s iris- and face-based authentication software, this enables a secure chain of trust from the camera sensor through the infotainment system. OEMs can leverage these features not only for safety-critical use cases but also for personalizing comfort and infotainment functions in the cabin.
“High NIR sensitivity and RGB HDR imaging are critical for reliable driver monitoring and biometric authentication under real-world conditions in parallel to a good color image of the cabin for video applications,” commented Detlef Wilke, VP of innovation and strategic partnerships at Smart Eye. “Together with Sony, we’re making sure these capabilities can be applied directly in vehicles, giving OEMs a practical path to meet new safety requirements and add secure identity-based features without extra hardware. This collaboration has already resulted in a joint production win with a major OEM, combining Sony’s IMX775 with our software.”
Keita Suzuki, general manager of the automotive business division at Sony Semiconductor Solutions, added, “Vehicle cabins present extreme lighting conditions – from bright daylight to near-total darkness. With a 110dB dynamic range for RGB and high NIR sensitivity, the IMX775 ensures Smart Eye’s software can deliver reliable driver monitoring and authentication. Its hybrid exposure system also enables accurate capture of fast eye movements and blinks, which is essential for precise driver state analysis.”
For more on the latest regulatory demands, technologies and research in vehicle safety, see Crash Test Technology International, AIW‘s sister publication
In related news, Forvia and Smart Eye have partnered on in-car iris and facial biometric authentication technology
