Image compression method using saturated pixel, encoder, and electronic device

An encoder for processing image data generated by an image sensor, the encoder configured to:

• detect a saturated pixel among a plurality of pixels included in a pixel group, the saturated pixel having a pixel value exceeding a threshold value, and the plurality of pixels being adjacent to each other and having a same color as each other;
• generate a saturation flag indicating a position of the saturated pixel;
• and
• compress the image data by comparing a reference pixel with at least one non-saturated pixel among the plurality of pixels included in the pixel group.

An electronic device capturing an image, the electronic device comprising:

• an image sensor including a pixel array and configured to output image data;
• an image signal processor including an encoder, the encoder being configured to:
• detect a saturated pixel among a plurality of pixels included in a pixel group, the saturated pixel having a pixel value exceeding a threshold value, and the plurality of pixels being adjacent to each other and having a same color as each other;
• generate a saturation flag indicating a position of the saturated pixel;
• compress the image data by comparing a reference pixel with at least one non-saturated pixel among the plurality of pixels included in the pixel group;
• and
• output a bitstream including a compression result, the saturation flag, and a compression method;
• and
• an application processor including a decoder, the decoder being configured to reconstruct the image data by decoding the bitstream.