Chinese firms are entering the XR display market, challenging South Korean display leaders as Meta partners with JBD for LEDoS displays in its AR project Orion. This significant collaboration is poised to alter market dynamics as the AR industry grows, with South Korea urged to innovate to retain its position in the face of increasing competition.
Recent developments indicate that Chinese firms are rapidly expanding their footprint in the extended reality (XR) display market, posing a competitive threat to South Korean leaders such as Samsung Display and LG Display. Notably, Meta has begun cooperation with Chinese display company JBD to supply LEDoS displays for its AR glasses prototype named “Orion,” marking a significant shift in the display technology landscape.
Since launching the Orion project last September, Meta has produced around 1,000 prototypes, with an intent to initiate mass production by 2027. JBD is currently the sole manufacturer of LEDoS displays, which utilize micro-display technology to project information directly before the user’s eyes. This exclusive partnership underscores important dynamics in the AR lens ecosystem and hints at potential market disruptions.
An industry expert remarked, “While there is a high possibility that Meta will adopt its self-developed LEDoS for AR glasses in the future, the fact that a Chinese company is the only one currently entering the AR lens ecosystem is significant.” This highlights the rising challenge that established companies face from their Chinese counterparts.
Meta has a history of AR market engagement, having sold 1.5 million units of smart glasses in conjunction with Ray-Ban last year and targeting sales of 5 million units this year. Although these glasses do not yet include direct information-providing lenses, their market acceptance reflects the growing consumer interest in augmented reality products.
The burgeoning AR sector, spurred on by Meta and others, raises concerns regarding South Korea’s position in future technological advancements. While Samsung Display and LG Display are working on XR-related lenses, primarily in OLED on Silicon (OLEDoS) technology, their scalability may be hindered, with Sony holding a commanding position in this space.
A second expert noted, “The global IT industry is focusing on the growth of the AR market and micro lenses,” urging that, “Korean companies also need to accelerate the creation of related ecosystems.” This call to action emphasizes the necessity for innovation and adaptability among South Korean firms in the face of rapid technological evolution.
In conclusion, the emergence of Chinese companies into the XR display market signifies a pivotal transition, particularly with Meta’s partnership with JBD for AR glasses. As competition intensifies, South Korean giants must innovate and develop their ecosystems to maintain relevance in this evolving landscape. The implications of these dynamics may profoundly affect the future of the global display industry.
Original Source: www.businesskorea.co.kr
Leave a Reply