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Samsung's metalens breakthrough: slimmer modules without sacrificing image quality
Samsung, in collaboration with Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), has unveiled a new metalens approach that could make future smartphones and XR headsets noticeably slimmer. Published in Nature Communications, the research replaces conventional curved glass optics with engineered nanostructures smaller than a human hair to manipulate light. That shift promises thinner camera modules, improved durability, and simplified manufacturing.
How the technology works
The research team, led by Dr. Jeong-Geun Yun of Samsung Research and Professor Junsuk Rho at POSTECH, introduced a two-thirds wavelength phase-delay technique. By avoiding the requirement for tall, fragile nanostructures, the method reduces fabrication complexity and increases robustness. The prototype design cuts camera module thickness by roughly 20%, from about 2.0mm to 1.6mm, while retaining optical performance.
Product features and performance
Key features
- Metalens optics using nanoscale pillars and arrays
- Two-thirds wavelength phase-delay for compact, rugged designs
- Infrared (IR) implementation for XR eye cameras
- Improved modulation transfer function (MTF) — from 50% to 72%
- 120° field of view for reliable pupil tracking and iris recognition
Use cases: XR eye tracking and smartphone cameras
The team demonstrated the metalens on an infrared eye camera tailored to XR headsets, achieving accurate iris recognition and pupil tracking across a wide 120° field of view. Samsung has said it will adapt the metalens for visible-light camera systems, opening the door to slimmer rear camera modules on smartphones and reduced wobble when a device is placed on a flat surface.
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Advantages and comparisons
Compared with conventional glass lenses and tall metasurface structures, this metalens approach delivers multiple advantages: smaller camera bumps, better mechanical resilience, and potentially lower production costs. Bigger image sensors have improved low-light performance but increased camera protrusions — as seen on devices like the vivo X200 Ultra. Metalenses could help reconcile larger sensors with sleeker phone designs. Apple and other manufacturers are reportedly exploring related concepts, including under-display solutions and alternatives to Dynamic Island, so market competition is already heating up.
Market relevance and outlook
For OEMs and component suppliers, a manufacturable metalens that boosts MTF while reducing module thickness could shift design priorities toward cleaner, flatter smartphone backs and lighter XR headsets. The key will be translating infrared prototypes to high-performance visible-light cameras at scale. If Samsung and partners succeed, the next generation of smartphones and augmented reality devices may combine large sensors with near-flat bodies and improved optical stabilization.
Conclusion
This metalens research blends nanophotonics, practical engineering, and applied optics to tackle a visible pain point in modern device design: the camera bump. With improvements in sharpness, field of view, and durability, metalenses are a promising route to thinner, more refined consumer electronics without compromising imaging performance.
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