Apple reportedly is developing next-generation ultra-thin screens for AR devices with TSMC

Apple is working with TSMC to develop ultra-thin, low-power micro OLED screens for its next augmented reality devices, Nikkei Asia is reporting. The R&D project is in an experimental production stage, with a focus on monitors smaller than an inch in size and “several years” away from commercialization. Apple is also developing MicroLED monitors in the same lab as Apple in Taiwan.

According Nikkei, the micro OLED monitors in development can be so thin and compact because they are built directly on chip inserts, instead of glass like traditional OLED or LCD screens. Project news follows reports that Apple has VR and AR headsets in development. It could launch its first VR headset (codename N301) as early as next year, while a pair of lighter AR glasses (codename N421) could follow in 2023. The N301 reportedly features two 8K monitors and a fabric exterior to reduce its weight, while future headphones can eventually use this new panel technology to become thinner and lighter.

Image: The information

In addition to working on micro OLED, Nikkei reports that Apple is also working on MicroLED display technology at the same secret lab in Taiwan. These self-emitting panels, which use miniature LEDs to remove the need for a traditional backlight, can end up on devices like the Apple Watch, iPad and MacBooks. Samsung already sells a MicroLED TV called The Wall, although the technology is far from popular or affordable.

As a note: the micro OLED and MicroLED are different from the Mini-LED, which uses a series of LEDs as a backlight behind a more traditional LCD display. Mini-LED technology is now available on TVs from companies like TCL, and Apple is also reportedly working to bring it to devices like iPads and MacBooks in the not-too-distant future.

According Nikkei, Apple’s R&D efforts are an attempt to reduce its reliance on other companies, such as Samsung, to supply its monitors. The iPhone 12’s OLED screen is considered the second most expensive third-party component behind the Qualcomm 5G modem, for example. While Apple may end up using these technologies in its products, it could also just use its work to acquire technology patents, giving you more control over these next generation technologies, Nikkei grades.

Apple is not the only company working to develop these display technologies. Sony Semiconductor Solutions has developed micro OLED displays for AR and VR headsets, while a partnership with BOE, Yunnan North OLiGHTEK Opto-Electronic Technology and Kopin are also working together on the technology. Meanwhile, Samusung, BOE and San’an Optoelectronics are also working to market MicroLED monitors.