A breakthrough in remote sensing technology is on its way. Sony Electronics Inc. has announced the upcoming AS-DT1 LiDAR Depth Sensor, designed to bring high-performance 3D measurement capabilities to compact, mobile, and embedded systems. Slated for commercial release in Spring 2026, this sensor is already attracting attention from engineers and integrators across industries such as robotics, UAV drones, logistics, and smart infrastructure.
The AS-DT1 is the world’s smallest and lightest LiDAR depth sensor in its class, measuring only 1.14 x 1.14 x 1.22 inches (29 x 29 x 31 mm) and weighing just 1.76 oz (50 g). This tiny package contains some of Sony’s most advanced optical and sensor technologies that deliver accurate and fast 3D distance measurement in real time.
Image: Coming in 2026, the all-new Sony AS-DT1 LiDAR Sensor
What is LiDAR?
LiDAR, short for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing method that uses pulsed laser light to measure distances between targets and surfaces. While radar, short for radio detection and ranging, uses radio waves to detect objects' distance, LiDAR's laser targeting generates precise, 3D information about an object's distance and shape characteristics.
Compact Design, Powerful Performance
Inside the AS-DT1 is Sony’s proprietary Direct Time of Flight (dToF) ranging module, a LiDAR sensor is combined with a Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) sensor. This combination enables the sensor to detect and measure distances in three dimensions (length, width, and depth) with high precision, even when dealing with complex surfaces such as low-reflectivity or low-contrast objects.
Where conventional LiDAR systems may struggle, the AS-DT1 is designed to excel, including in environments filled with complex objects like human figures, machinery, retail displays, and more.
The AS-DT1 offers a maximum measurement range of 40 meters indoors and 20 meters outdoors, even under bright sunlight (up to 100,000 lux), making it ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. From navigating warehouse robots to drone-based infrastructure inspection, like bridges and highways, this sensor provides reliable, high-resolution depth data in diverse environments.
Built to Integrate, Ready for the Field
To match its performance, the AS-DT1 is housed in a rugged yet lightweight aluminum alloy casing, striking the perfect balance between durability and mobility. Its compact size allows seamless integration into systems where space and weight are limited, such as autonomous mobile robots, agricultural drones, and restaurant service bots.
It also offers robust connectivity:
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2 USB-C ports
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External power connector
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UART interface
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Trigger connector
These features give developers flexibility when integrating the sensor into new or existing systems, making it ideal for OEMs and system engineers building next-gen smart devices.
Accuracy That Matters
Thanks to Sony’s dToF and SPAD technologies, the AS-DT1 can achieve ±5 cm (approximately ±2 inches) accuracy at a range of 10 meters. This level of resolution supports detailed object detection and safe autonomous navigation, even in cluttered or dynamic environments. The sensor’s ability to detect floating objects and objects with varying reflectivity levels adds value to fields like industrial automation, logistics, retail monitoring, and inspection.
First Look: XPONENTIAL 2025
Sony will debut a prototype of the AS-DT1 at XPONENTIAL 2025, held May 20–22 in Houston, Texas. This event will offer attendees an exclusive opportunity to experience the sensor’s capabilities before its commercial launch. For those developing next-generation sensing systems, this preview could be the first step toward a new level of performance.
Looking Ahead
As the release date approaches, more information about technical specs, integration options, and real-world application examples will be available. Stay connected with InterTest to explore how this cutting-edge LiDAR sensor could elevate your next design. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current system or break new ground in your application, the AS-DT1 is poised to deliver innovation in a compact form.