The ELEC claims that Apple has ordered a sample of the fine metal mask (FMM) for VR application from APS Holdings, a South Korean company. The tested display technology will deliver 3000 PPI (pixels per inch) density.
Apple is allegedly developing a virtual reality (VR) headset or a mixed augmented reality (AR) and VR headset like Facebook’s Oculus headset to deliver an enhanced gaming experience. Without mentioning any product, the company’s CEO Tim Cook has spoken candidly on the potential of AR technology and the company is working on Augmented Reality technology for iPhone, iPad as it is “a technology that can enhance lives.”
Apple to test new display tech to device a plan for VR devices production
As per the report, the Cupertino tech giant has asked for the FMM sample to test if it can deliver high resolution 3000 PPI (pixels per inch) density and the company will strategize the production plan for future VR devices based on the results.
Apple likely wanted a laser patterning FMM as laser drilling for the holes will make 3000ppi more achievable. APS Holdings has been developing laser patterning FMM for application in MicroOLED panels. MicroOLED panels uses a silicon substrate instead of glass like conventional OLED panels. This allows it to offer more precise and higher resolution.
MicroOLED also has microseconds response time and is a likely candidate to be used for VR and augmented reality (AR) applications.
The tech giant probably choose APS Holdings because it was selected by South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy to produce a MicroOLED display technology for “high luminance and high-resolution AR application. The national project’s aim is to develop an AR glass with 4000ppi resolution by 2024.”
Rumor has it that Mr. Cook will like to oversee the launch of another product category, presumably, AR glasses before retiring by 2028. At an interview he said:
“I’m a huge believer in augmented reality. It can enhance our conversations that we’re having, and enhance learning and really amplify the value of technology with people, without it enclosing or shutting off the real world.”
