CML Leads Imaging Technology Revolution: SMA Products demonstrate multiple advantages over VCM, Setting New Benchmark for Smartphone Photography

[February 2026] CML, a global leader in Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) technology development, has demonstrated through multiple real-world tests that its SMA products comprehensively outperform traditional Voice Coil Motor (VCM) technology in smartphone imaging applications. Under complex scenarios involving strong vibrations and high-frequency jolts, smartphones equipped with CML SMA technology exhibit significantly superior Autofocus (AF) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)  performance compared to VCM, providing an optimal solution for smartphone and smart camera imaging systems.

SMA actuators offer strong advantages over traditional VCM designs, combining high inherent force and stiffness that provide exceptional robustness against external vibrations—avoiding the AF de‑focusing issues commonly seen in VCM systems under high‑frequency vibration. Their simple mechanical structure with low part count further streamlines integration, as components such as the IR bracket and VA electrical connections can be directly incorporated into the actuator design. In addition, SMA actuators generate no electromagnetic interference, giving handset manufacturers greater flexibility in system layout and making them particularly well‑suited for variable aperture, multi‑OIS, and folding‑phone applications.

CML Real-World Validation: From Technology Comparison to Performance Breakthrough

To validate SMA technology's actual performance advantages, CML conducted two sets of comparative tests to comprehensively demonstrate SMA technology's capabilities: first comparing the fundamental differences between SMA and VCM, then showcasing how SMA-based Hyper OIS pushes stabilization performance to new heights.

1.1 Technology Benchmark Comparison: SMA Comprehensively Leads VCM

Test One: Scooter Riding Scenario — High Thrust Ensures OIS Stability in Strong Vibration Environments

Four flagship phones (One adopting SMA technology, and three mainstream flagship models with VCM technology) were simultaneously mounted on a moving scooter handlebar for testing, with vibration range of 2-4G and peaks around 6G.

Test Two: Pushcart on Tarmac Road Scenario — AF Stable Focus Under High-Frequency Vibration

Two phones (One adopting SMA technology, and one mainstream high-end model with VCM technology) were mounted on a pushcart pushed across asphalt pavement, simulating high-frequency bumpy scenarios.

Test Summary

• High Thrust Advantage: In strong vibration scenarios, SMA leverages 10x the thrust density of VCM to effectively counteracting external impacts, ensuring proper AF and OIS operation
• Stable Grip Advantage: In high-frequency bumpy scenarios, SMA's strong holding force prevents mechanical loosening, ensuring AF system precision and reliability

1.2 Performance Breakthrough: SMA + Hyper OIS Defines New Stabilization Benchmark

Building on CML SMA technology's powerful hardware foundation, combined with further optimization of Hyper OIS algorithms, even more higher stabilization performance can be achieved. By comparing the same SMA phone's performance with Hyper OIS enabled/disabled, we can intuitively see the enhancement effect:

Scenario One: Night Scene Light Photography

Under low-light long-exposure conditions, with Hyper OIS enabled, image stability improves significantly with sharp light contours and complete shadow details, while standard OIS still shows slight shaking in extreme low-light conditions. 

Scenario Two: Running Motion Photography

In sustained irregular motion scenarios, with Hyper OIS enabled, even during fast running the image remains smooth and stable with clear subjects; while standard OIS can offset most shaking, slight fluctuations still occur at peak running rhythm moments.

Key Conclusions

• Overlaying Hyper OIS algorithms achieves a leap from "excellent" to "exceptional"
• SMA's strong grip + Hyper OIS intelligent compensation delivers professional-grade stable experiences in any scenario
• SMA’s silent actuation removes the noise issues seen in VCM during high‑frequency OIS, ensuring a smoother and quieter shooting experience.

Technology Iteration Trend Set: CML Leads SMA AF + OIS New Future

As smartphone imaging competition shifts from "pixel competition" to "experience upgrading," actuator technology innovation becomes a critical breakthrough. SMA technology gains favor from more device manufacturers thanks to core advantages in vibration resistance, free of electromagnetic interference, and miniaturization.

More notably, SMA technology has entered a new phase of deep "hardware + algorithm" integration. Enhanced stabilization algorithms represented by Hyper OIS, built on SMA's existing powerful hardware foundation, push imaging stability to new heights.

As a global leader in SMA technology, CML continues deep investment in technology R&D and has established strategic partnerships with multiple top global smartphone manufacturers. Looking ahead, CML will continue advancing iterative upgrades of innovative features like Hyper OIS, expanding SMA technology applications to provide superior imaging solutions for global customers and help end products achieve breakthrough improvements in imaging experiences.

About Cambridge Mechatronics Limited

Cambridge Mechatronics Limited (CML) is the world's leading developer of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuator technology. The company's innovative solutions enable high-performance applications requiring exceptional precision, force, and miniaturization. With over 800 patents and technology proven in nearly 100 million devices, CML partners with global leaders across smartphone, XR, automotive, medical, and industrial sectors.

Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, CML maintains operations worldwide to support its global customer base and supply chain partners.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Greta Xiong, Marketing Communications Manager at CML

Email: [email protected]