UK-based startup Singular Photonics launched Litavis on September 10, 2026, introducing a single-photon avalanche diode image sensor that unifies photon counting, timing, histogramming, and on-chip processing onto a single CMOS platform. The device is the first SPAD-based sensor capable of supporting simultaneous intensity, timing, and histogramming modes, according to company statements.
Architecture and Technical Specifications
Litavis is built on a software-configurable architecture designed to reduce the need for multiple dedicated sensors. Traditional image sensors primarily measure light intensity, whereas SPADs detect individual photons and record arrival times. This dual capability makes them suited for low-light conditions and temporal measurements.
The sensor delivers continuous 256 by 256-pixel photon-counting imaging under low-light conditions. Operating in parallel, a 64 by 64 macropixel grid generates time-stamped photon events at a lower rate, providing picosecond-resolution photon timing alongside full-resolution photon counting. According to technical details provided by Singular Photonics, the platform supports multi-event timing, in-pixel histogramming, time-correlated single-photon counting, high-dynamic-range photon counting with selectable resolution, and windowed or coincidence-based detection.
Processing photon events directly on the chip reduces the volume of raw data transferred to external electronics. Singular Photonics stated that this on-chip processing lowers latency and power consumption while simplifying the development of real-time imaging systems.
Commercial Applications and Industry Rollout
The sensor targets fields requiring both spatial and temporal data, including fluorescence lifetime imaging, time-resolved spectroscopy, machine vision, robotics, physical AI, depth sensing, quantum technologies, and industrial automation. The launch follows earlier commercial efforts by the University of Edinburgh spinout, which previously worked with metrology firm Renishaw to develop SPAD technology for time-resolved Raman spectroscopy using its 512-pixel Sirona sensors.
“Litavis combines the sensitivity advantages of SPAD technology with the adaptability and scalability increasingly required by modern multimodal imaging,” said Shahida Imani, CEO and co-founder of Singular Photonics, in an official announcement. Imani added that the device has already drawn significant pre-order volumes from global companies and research institutions.
The launch coincides with venture funding secured by the Edinburgh-based firm. Singular Photonics recently raised just over $2 million in venture capital to accelerate its sensor development pipeline.
Upcoming Industry Demonstrations
Singular Photonics will showcase Litavis at two major industry events. The sensor will debut at the SPIE Sensors + Imaging conference in Edinburgh, followed by an appearance at VISION, a machine vision trade show in Stuttgart, Germany, in early October.
Worth a look