Samsung Electronics has unveiled a strategic shift in its microdisplay endeavors, delineating distinct roles for its subsidiaries. Samsung’s decision to bifurcate Micro OLED and Micro LED responsibilities among its subsidiaries signifies a concerted effort to streamline operations, accelerate development, and position itself as a critical player in the rapidly evolving microdisplay landscape.
In an official announcement, the company revealed that Samsung Display will spearhead all Micro OLED display projects, emphasizing its commitment to advancing this technology. Simultaneously, Samsung Semiconductor, specifically the Compound Semiconductor Solutions team, will assume responsibility for the development of Micro LED microdisplays.
Micro OLED Takes Center Stage for Samsung Display
Samsung Display is more committed to this cutting-edge technology after revealing in 2022 that it is pursuing Micro OLED panels. The company’s goal is to bring Micro OLED to market quickly. It plans to begin initial production in the upcoming year and achieve full-scale mass production by 2026. This calculated action is in line with Samsung’s vision that Micro OLED will be the best option for the upcoming generation of VR head-mounted displays, which includes rival models such as Apple’s Vision Pro.
Last year, Samsung Display purchased American Micro OLED developer eMagin to strengthen its position in the market. Through the use of eMagin’s cutting-edge technology, this acquisition strengthens Samsung’s capacity to accelerate development. The application of eMagin’s experience is planned for goods such as Samsung’s exclusive head-mounted displays and the Apple Vision Pro.
Micro LED Development Shifts to Samsung Semiconductor
In contrast, Micro LED development is taken up by Samsung Semiconductor, which is home to the Compound Semiconductor Solutions team. Micro LEDs are thought to be more suitable for demanding augmented reality applications, even though they offer superior brightness and efficiency. Even though Micro LED is still in its early phases of development, Samsung believes it will play a significant role in determining the direction of augmented reality in the future.
Samsung Display’s first venture into Micro LED technology, which was announced in September with the release of a 0.25-inch FHD Micro LED microdisplay, is expected to transfer to Samsung Semiconductor. With this strategic realignment, Samsung is demonstrating its dedication to maximizing its resources for the effective advancement and application of Micro OLED and Micro LED technologies.
