Since its formation in 1997, FotoNation has become a world leader in providing embedded imaging and communication services for various industries. The company’s core competencies lay in its ability to provide its clients with improved digital connectivity software. Specifically, FotoNation has developed advanced technology to: identify and correct red-eye phenomenon, track and recognize facial features, detect and remove dust, and correct motion blur. These innovations improve the efficiency and operability of the devices in which they are embedded. Moreover, this technology is backed by several US patents and is currently the basic industry standard. In fact, in 2005 FotoNation authored the PTP-IP Specification which is the international camera connectivity CIPA-005/2005 standard. In addition to manufacturing products for the digital camera industry, FotoNation is active in several other markets including: imaging chiplets, printers, internet service providers, cell phones, PDA’s, and computers. As a participant in the global commercial services industry, FotoNation has a vast market potential. According to Onesource, this industry was valued at $2.2 trillion in 2007 and is forecasted to be worth $2.6 trillion by 2012, a 3.9% growth rate. As such, FotoNation will continue to see increased opportunity for advancement. In fact, in 2006 the company was awarded the DIMA Innovative Product Award, as well as the European IST Award for their red-eye detection software. These awards demonstrate industry confidence in FotoNation’s potentially groundbreaking approach to embedded imaging.

In February, 2008 FotoNation was acquired by Tessera Technologies Inc. Tessera is a developer and licenser of miniaturization technologies for the micro-optics industry with a focus on chip packaging solutions. While FotoNation is now subsidiary of Tessera, the company will keep its brand name and control of its operations. Furthermore, FotoNation will benefit from Tessera’s extensive industry experience as well as its vast resources. In 2007 Tessera reported revenues of $195.7 million.

Labels: Advanced Computing