Organic Light-Emitting Diode on Silicon (OLEDoS): A Complete Guide
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) was initially invented in 1987 by scientists Ching Tang and Steven Van Slyke of Eastman Kodak. It took a long time to be mass-produced but once it caught on, it was tough to ignore. For instance, Sony released its first OLED TV in 2004 and today, OLED technology is most commonly used worldwide.
What came next was OLEDoS (Organic Light-Emitting Diode on Silicon), a cutting-edge display innovation, capable of replacing multiple LCD displays in a few industries, including small displays for flexible applications, TVs, and micro displays.
So, what are the factors contributing to the growth of OLEDoS devices and how different are they as compared to other display technologies? Let’s dive into the world of organic light-emitting diodes on silicon and explore the elements in “high definition”.
What are OLEDoS & How are They Different from Other Displays?
OLEDoS (OLED on Silicon) is a display technology that satisfies the 3000 ppi–4000 ppi resolution requirements for AR/VR device displays and usually has a diagonal length of less than 1 inch. Low-Temperature-Poly-Silicon (LTPS) or Oxide TFT built on glass substrates are used in existing OLED displays.
However, CMOS substrates for OLEDoS are built on silicon wafers. It is possible to replicate the ultra-fine circuit structures usually used in semiconductor processes on silicon substrates, and when organic material is deposited on them, this results in the development of ultra-high-resolution OLEDs.
OLEDoS displays vary significantly from conventional AMOLED devices, which use low-temperature polysilicon thin-film transistors, microcrystalline silicon, or amorphous silicon as the backplane. It is an active organic light-emitting diode with a backplane made of monocrystalline silicon. Its pixels are 1/10 the size of those on typical displays.
As per the second-generation AR/VR product line of Apple (which is anticipated to hit the market around 2025) Apple is also expected to use OLEDoS for its future product range. Additionally, given that Meta is likely to include OLEDoS in its Meta Quest 3 device, which is anticipated to go on sale in 2023, it is anticipated that augmented reality that satisfies the aforementioned technical requirements will be applied. With big names entering the OLEDoS landscape, the demand for such devices is projected to grow immensely in the near future.
Why are OLEDoS Gaining Traction in 2023?
OLED microdisplays have gained traction in recent times due to their low power requirements, quick response times, high contrast ratios, and self-luminescence. High brightness and vivid colors are necessary to increase the use of OLED microdisplays. The Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry is currently conducting studies on three-wavelength white organic light-emitting diodes for high luminance and color gamut microdisplays.
The physical characteristics exhibited by OLEDoS driving demand for these devices owing to their robust and durable nature. Furthermore, the introduction and integration of technological advancements in artificial reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is also expected to contribute towards the growth of OLEDoS in the market.
Future OLED technology will be able to adhere to the necessary performance and price requirements. Growing digitization, larger investments, greater consumer spending, and changes in lifestyle benefit the organic light emitting diode (OLED) industry as well.
Furthermore, micro OLED (also known as OLED on Silicon), is projected to emerge as a cutting-edge technology in the coming years owing to their tiny organic light emitting diodes on a silicon wafer. In 2023, OLEDoS is predicted to be released as micro OLED by Samsung Display which is currently one of the largest electronics manufacturers worldwide.
Which are the World’s Most Notable OLEDoS Display Projects?
OLEDoS is regarded as the underdog in terms of upcoming display technology. OLEDoS screens are distinct from traditional AMOLED devices that use a backplane made of low-temperature polysilicon thin-film transistors, microcrystalline silicon, or amorphous silicon.
It is an active organic light-emitting diode with a backplane made of monocrystalline silicon. It has pixels that are 1/10 the size of conventional display devices, much finer pixels than conventional devices, high integration, low power usage, small size, light weight, and many other benefits.
China has emerged as the world’s largest producer of OLEDs which is projected to boost demand for OLEDoS in the coming years. For instance, SeeYA Technology offers integrated OLEDoS solutions for various applications in the gaming industry (especially with the boost of AR and VR in the gaming industry), watching movies at high-definition screens, drone cameras and several others.
As per predictions of the AR and VR displays, it is expected that two OLEDoS displays will be installed in Apple’s first headset, with Sony being the supplier. Furthermore, the OLEDs used in the exterior indicators will be provided by LG Display. But in the long term, LG Display is predicted to be Apple's preferred OLEDoS vendor over Sony. Sony has its own gaming console, making it a possible rival to Apple in the XR market even though its technology is currently somewhat advanced.
OLEDoS: Analyzing the Future for Microdisplays in “High-Definition”
The OLEDoS technology has gained traction in recent times owing to increased power efficiency, lightness, thinness, brightness, and greater contrast. By offering broader viewing angles, quicker reaction times, higher contrast ratios, and more vivid colors, OLEDs enhance the viewing experience for users.
The OLEDoS technology is projected to increase lucrative opportunities owing to the transforming shift for adopting smart lighting systems. The affordable and energy-efficient OLED lighting is attributed to the growth of OLEDoS devices in both developed and developing countries around the world.
With the ability to meet crucial performance and cost requirements, the shift to efficient lighting systems is projected to drive the demand for OLEDoS devices. While OLEDoS technology isn’t required for higher pixel density displays on televisions, they are still considered to have a more safe glare on devices we sit closer to such as phones and tablets.