News: LEDs
10 January 2025
Plessey and Meta develop brightest red micro-LED display for AR glasses
Plessey Semiconductors Ltd of Plymouth, UK — which develops embedded micro-LED technology for augmented-reality and mixed-reality (AR/MR) display applications — and Meta Platforms Inc have developed what is claimed to be the brightest red micro-LED display suitable for AR glasses. Offering up to 6,000,000nits at high resolution (<5μm) with ultra-low power consumption, it is reckoned to overcome critical technical challenges, helping to pave the way for the next computing platform.
The achievement follows Meta recently unveiling Orion, its true AR glasses prototype. This is said to combine the look and feel of a regular pair of glasses with the immersive capabilities of AR due to features such as its 70° field of view, silicon carbide high-performance waveguides, custom silicon, micro-LED projectors, and integrated input system.
As part of its long-term commercial agreement, Plessey is continuing to work with Meta by dedicating its manufacturing operations to support the development of prototypes and new technologies for potential use in the XR category.
“These types of breakthroughs are crucial to build AR glasses that help people stay more present and empowered in the world with a form factor people actually feel comfortable wearing,” says Jason Hartlove, VP of display & optics, Meta’s Reality Labs. “Our work with Plessey has pushed the boundaries of what’s previously been possible, and it’s only the beginning,” he adds.
“The collaboration between Meta and Plessey has delivered a major breakthrough in the development of AR technology,” reckons Plessey’s CEO Dr Keith Strickland. “With the world’s brightest red micro-LED display, we are one major step closer to making AR glasses a mainstream reality.”
