GENEVA, Switzerland, Sep 24, 2026 – STMicroelectronics’ new LSM6DSK320X and ISM6HGK256X motion sensors combine dual accelerometers, a gyroscope and machine learning. The six-axis inertial measurement units capture low-range motion and high-g events simultaneously to support event reconstruction.
Applications include fitness trackers, smart tags, industrial asset monitors, robots and drones used for photography and agricultural surveying. Event reconstruction helps applications distinguish incidents for accident alerts, tool-usage monitoring, robot teaching, sports-performance analysis and concussion detection. Other uses include drone-flight stabilization, structural-condition monitoring and game controllers.
“By maximizing the signal strength and resilience in an extremely compact form factor, the architecture of our latest 6-axis motion sensors will drive powerful new features in smart applications,” said Simone Ferri, executive vice president, MEMS sub-group, STMicroelectronics (ST). “Moreover, meeting today’s leading sustainable-materials codes such as BPA-free, Pb-free and others helps smart-tech innovators address environmental and regulatory expectations as these become progressively tougher, encompassing additional classes of materials.”
“ST’s new LSM6DSK320X sensor delivers unprecedented vibration immunity that we just had to integrate and take advantage of immediately in our ongoing reference platform development,” said Jay Blackman, leader, Betaflight.
“The LSM6DSK320X IMU is the new performance leader for smart and context-aware consumer technology, including UAVs,” said Dr. Zebo Zhou, chief technology officer, Tianhe (Chengdu). “Drone flight controllers place extremely demanding requirements on an IMU: the sensor must not saturate during aggressive maneuvers, must maintain low noise under severe vibrations, and must be compact and power efficient. Of all the available devices we have evaluated, ST’s LSM6DSK320X was the best match.”
Sensor Architecture
The gyroscope architecture uses two electromechanical structures operating in counter-phase to counter external vibration and shock. ST pairs these structures with a differential signal chain to improve signal strength.
The dual accelerometers measure low-range disturbances up to ±16 g, with high-g measurements reaching ±320 g across the new devices. Separate accelerometers avoid measurement interruptions associated with switching a single accelerometer between low-range and high-range modes.
Both sensors contain ST’s machine-learning core, which processes data within the sensor. This reduces application energy consumption and demand on system resources.
Development Tools and Availability
Developers can use basic libraries alongside ST’s Motion XLF, sensor-fusion and context-awareness software. Both IMUs have support within the ST MEMS Studio development environment.
The STEVAL-MKI257A adapter board supports the LSM6DSK320X, while the STEVAL-MKI258KA supports the ISM6HGK256X. Both boards are scheduled to become available through ST’s eStore and distributors by November 2026.
The consumer-focused LSM6DSK320X operates from −40°C to 85°C. The ISM6HGK256X operates from −40°C to 105°C and belongs to ST’s 10-year availability program.
Both devices measure 2.5 mm by 3 mm by 0.83 mm. Prices start at $4.60 for the LSM6DSK320X and $5.10 for the ISM6HGK256X in quantities of 1,000.
Source: STMicroelectronics
About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics (ST) is a semiconductor company founded in 1987. It designs and manufactures microcontrollers, sensors, power devices and other analog and mixed-signal components. The company operates as an integrated device manufacturer with in-house production that supports large-volume supply for global markets. Its customers include automotive, industrial, consumer electronics and communications equipment manufacturers. ST also works with technology partners to develop components used in mobility systems, energy and power management equipment and connected devices. The company reports ongoing efforts to reduce emissions across its operations and increase the share of renewable electricity in its manufacturing sites, with a goal to reach full renewable sourcing by 2027. ST is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It serves more than 200,000 customers worldwide and employs about 50,000 people. Its technologies support applications that require efficient power conversion, sensing, processing and connectivity. The company expands its portfolio to support automotive, industrial, consumer and connected system applications through integrated design and manufacturing.
