Today, Sony presented a CCD sensor featuring as 4 color filter, as well as a new processor supporting this new CCD. This new filter allows for colors closer to what is actually perceived by the human eye.

While existing color filters have included only three colors (RGB), Sony's new filter includes a fourth color, Emerald. As a result, images have become closer to our own perception of the colors, so it is able to produce much more natural colors for images. In particular, the contrast between indigo and red colors has increased.

RGB was created so for convenience, as most color televisions and displays use these three colors. However, in doing so, small discrepancies were created between the actual colors and the perceived colors.

Sony also presented a processor capable of utilizing this 4-color filter. The new processor generates an RGB image from this 4 color signal. Power consumption has also decreased, so that it is now 30% of what it used to be. This allows for faster picture taking and playback.

Sony plans on including this 4-color filter and processor on all of their upcoming cameras.

Sources:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2003/0716/sony.htm
http://www.sony.co.jp/SonyInfo/News/Press/200307/03-029/

Interpreter Notes:
They were not kidding about the colors looking more natural. Take a look at the sample images. The pictures from the new 4 color CCD are on the right side of each of the pictures. Looks like I have another reason to buy a Sony camera now.