It looks like we’ve spurred some discussion on the fact that Windows Mobile 6.5 may not support HD decoding of video files natively on handsets, a story that we picked up from MobileTechWorld. The truth of the matter is, yesterday–and today–on many device’s WVGA screens, there’s no need to go beyond the video decoding capabilities that we have today. But then without optimists and dreamers, we wouldn’t have had flying cars to look forward too and we’d probably be stuck in the QVGA era of yesteryear. Also, if there’s–by Apple’s word–”an app for that” there should also be hardware to accommodate such apps. And in the hardware application, more powerful camera sensors, specifically one made by OmniVision, may soon require HD decoding for viewing/previewing of video files natively on the device.

OmniVision has created a powerful camera OV14825 sensor for camera phones–and many smartphones, including Windows Mobile, have cameras–to allow users to take 14.6-megapixel still images and record videos at a blazing 60 frames per seconds (fps) in 1080p resolution. That’s all great and dandy, but if reports from MobileTechWorld hold true that Windows Mobile can’t decode videos at 720p and higher for viewing on a device, you wouldn’t be able to preview what you’ve recorded on your Windows phone.

To further the argument, with higher-resolution cameras and the emergence of pico projector technology–and in particular integrated solutions like the LG eXpo–multimedia consumers would benefit in being able to quickly play content quickly onto a larger screen, whether it be through a projector or through an HDMI port. While we can remain stagnant and be content with what we have today to catch up with the disruptive technologies later, the better option would be to innovate. As a veteran of the mobile space, Microsoft has the resources and the intellectual capital to further the platform, providing leadership and making Windows Mobile an enviable platform; we hope the company will use those resources well.

So do we need HD video decoding on a device? Probably not, but the Zune HD highlights there may be a market for HD video decoding. Having one file that you can decode and play in lower-resolution for the mobile screen and play at native HD resolution when connected to a TV-out port that supports HD would be beneficial. Could there be a need for HD video decoding in the future? Probably so. Camera sensors can capture fine details and HD video recording may be the next wave for 2010 onward. OS makers who are forward-thinking enough will be able to capture mass market acceptance when disruptive technologies hit.

The technology behind OmniVision’s OV14825 camera sensor should enter mass production in the second quarter of this year. Whether or not the OV14825 will find its way into your next smartphone purchase is another story.

(via: Gizmodo)