New Technology Could Bring Realistic Holograms to Everyday Glasses

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking new device small enough to be integrated into regular glasses, which has the potential to revolutionize holographic displays by using hologram lenses to deliver the most realistic holograms to date.

Traditionally, spatial light modulators (SLMs) have been used to generate holograms by altering the shape of light waves passing through them at a designated distance, creating the 3D-like effect essential for holograms. However, the current reliance on liquid crystal/silicon (LCoS) display technology in SLMs has limited hologram technology to mostly flat screens and small viewing areas.

The innovation of hologram lenses in the new device eliminates the need for viewers to be positioned within a narrow viewing angle, as the light field is constantly in front of the viewer regardless of their perspective. This ensures that the light never disappears due to diffraction, providing a seamless and immersive holographic experience.

Moreover, the compact size of the device allows for the creation of sleek and lightweight glasses, bypassing the need for bulky VR headsets. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for the integration of holograms in applications such as VR and AR displays, making the technology more accessible and user-friendly. Imagine wearing a pair of Apple Vision Pro glasses that appear no different from regular eyeglasses.

This breakthrough in hologram technology signifies a significant step towards achieving lifelike holograms that were once thought to be beyond our technological capabilities. While commercial availability of hologram lenses may not be immediate, a recent study published in Nature Communications suggests that the technology could see exponential growth in the coming decade. As a result, the prospect of utilizing 6G technology to enable holographic communications may not be as distant a reality as previously imagined.