Improving the efficiency and performance of Augmented Reality (AR) headsets is a key technical challenge for enhancing user experiences and catalyzing AR market growth. Current AR headsets are bulky and present a limited field of view (FOV), compromised image quality, and short battery life. In principle, high-refractive-index optical components could be integrated to create next-generation headsets with form factors that simultaneously deliver improved performance. Glass manufacturers have recently announced the availability of new, high-index substrates (n = 2.0+) to assist the technical development of these advanced devices. The materials required to manufacture high-index structures on these substrates, however, are not commercially available. Phosio Corporation has recently developed new solution-based, UV-curable inorganic coatings with customizable indexes (n = 1.6 – 2.35) and non-yellowing low absorbance across the visible spectrum. The formulations are compatible with incumbent imprinting tools, enabling waveguide fabrication on high-index glass. Consequently, Phosio’s technology provides a unique path to elevating FOV and image quality beyond current state-of-the-art AR headsets.
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