The key difference is that instead of focusing the light on a strip of photochemical film as in traditional cameras, digital cameras use an image sensor, called a charge coupled device (CCD), to capture the image.

FORBES: Technology briefing

These technologies are fundamental to the world's growing image sensor industry, with sales of over two billion units annually, and found in almost every consumer electronics device including smart phones, automobiles, tablets, televisions, gaming platforms, medical equipment and digital cameras.

ENGADGET: Aptina and Sony cross-license their camera patents, Nikon smiles