Leica is getting rid of Sony sensors and in future plans to use the sensors made by the Chinese company Gpixel.
Wetzlar, Germany & Changchun, China, 20 April 2026 Today, Leica Camera AG and Gpixel, a leading global provider of advanced CMOS image sensors, announce a strategic partnership. Both partners agreed to combine their core competencies in the area of innovative imaging technologies to
co-develop a new high performance imaging sensor tailored for next-generation Leica cameras. This collaboration brings together Leica’s long-standing expertise in premium imaging and Gpixel’s cutting-edge sensor design capabilities to push the boundaries of what is technically possible in digital photography.
The partnership focuses on jointly engineering a bespoke image sensor optimized for Leica’s rigorous imaging standards, enabling unprecedented levels of image quality, dynamic range, color fidelity, and low-light performance across future Leica products.
Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and majority shareholder Leica Camera AG said: „I am really happy and proud that our long-term cooperation with Gpixel will result in a true Leica sensor, incorporating the best ingredients of engineering between Wetzlar, Antwerp and Changchun.”
“At Gpixel, we have always admired Leica’s uncompromising approach to craftsmanship and image performance,” said Xinyang Wang, CEO of Gpixel. “Collaborating with Leica gives us the opportunity to combine our sensor-engineering strengths with their legendary imaging heritage. This partnership allows us to co-create a new generation of sensors that will empower photographers with extraordinary image-making capabilities.”
The jointly developed sensor will be purpose-engineered to meet the highest performance requirements in color reproduction, noise optimization, dynamic range, and detail rendering. The collaboration also includes close cooperation in validation, image tuning, and production readiness.
