Miniaturization of image sensors: The role of innovations in complementary technologies in overcoming technological trade-offs associated with product innovation

Miniaturization has been the main driver of product innovation in image sensors and other semiconductor devices for several decades. Strategy and technology researchers, however, have somewhat overlooked the enablers of miniaturization. Using charge-coupled device image sensors as the context, we find that innovations in complementary technologies played a vital role in mitigating the technological trade-offs associated with such product innovations. In the process, we contribute to our understanding of technological evolution by relating the enabling role of complementary technologies to product innovation.