Samsung’s research department SAIT published scientific papers on novel thin holographic displays in 2020. Now a leaker claims that Samsung wants to actively work towards market-ready products – and is also in contact with Apple to develop corresponding iPhones. However, it is a fairly distant future, as mass production will definitely not be advanced enough before 2030. The approach still sounds interesting and describes 3D representation without requiring 3D glasses or having to worry too much about the viewing angle. Depth effects on a flat display
The technology described is said to differ significantly from previous 3D displays. Instead of classic lenticular lenses, Samsung is said to be relying on eye tracking, diffractive light control and a nanostructured holographic layer with an AMOLED structure. The display would direct light specifically to the user’s eyes, creating depth effects without permanently reducing the normal 2D sharpness. The holographic layer should only be activated with appropriate content; according to rumors, normal 2D representation would be retained in full 4K resolution. In addition, the viewing angle can be significantly improved, which is crucial for the areas of application of smartphones.
Apple’s strategy around spatial computing
Such a display would be exciting because it could bring Apple’s spatial strategy with the Vision Pro and the “spatial photos” back to the iPhone – without requiring additional hardware such as a headset or other separate AR device. Apple’s future CEO John Ternus recently reiterated Apple’s belief that the merger between the real and digital worlds is an inevitable development. Spatial computing is currently in its infancy, primarily because it requires large devices like a Vision Pro. However, Apple has been filing patents on holographic representation for almost 20 years, which shows intensive research.
