The Nokia 1020 is known for its 41 megapixel camera. A team of researchers used this camera feature to make a low-cost molecular analyser and DNA sequencer.

A DNA sequencer is used to determine the order of G (guanine), C (cytosine), A (adenine), and T (thymine) in the DNA. The output will be given in form of a text string. Normally, the microscope used for a DNA sequencing device is worth thousands of dollars, but the improvised version made from the Nokia phone camera is worth $500.

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A group of scientists from three prestigious universities - University of California, Los Angeles, Stockholm University, and Uppsala University - used 3D technology to print a phone attachment that can turn the Nokia phone camera into a microscope thus making a portable DNA sequencer that can be used in developing nations and other remote locations.

Using the device, genetic mutations that cause disease can be analysed without the need of sending samples to laboratories. It can be used by simply placing a tissue sample on a small container. The phone's camera together with the optical attachment will capture multi-color fluorescence and bright-field images of the sample. An algorithm will then analyse the DNA sequence, finding mutations or any changes.

The device is so powerful that it is enough to detect cancer cells in small amounts, even finding mutations of normal cells in large groups. With this new kind of technology, testing will not be limited to major laboratories only. Molecular testing of this level can be maximized even in areas where hospital access is very limited.

Another good thing about the technology is that other modern camera phones can also be used for DNA sequencing. Though only the Nokia 1020 has a 41 megapixel capability, the device's attachment is designed to be used with other mobile phones with a similarly advanced capture settings.