It works by applying different voltages, independently, to different layers of organic films that are stacked on top of the sensor. From the sounds of it, though, this might not be a consumer-focused advance. The press release specifically calls out the sensor's potential use in machine vision and smart car systems.

If you hurry, Panasonic will be presenting its findings at the International Solid State Circuit Conference in San Francisco today. You know, in case you wanted more info on how it all works.