AR

Augmented Reality (AR) refers to display systems that overlay digital content—such as navigation cues, notifications, 3D markers, and contextual data—directly onto the user’s real-world view. Unlike VR, AR is typically based on optical see-through viewing, which means the image must remain legible while competing with ambient light from the environment. As a result, AR displays prioritize high perceived brightness, strong contrast, and efficient optical output so UI elements stay clear in daylight, bright indoor spaces, and complex lighting conditions.

AR solutions are designed as part of a complete near-eye optical engine rather than a standalone screen. Common architectures combine a microdisplay (often Micro OLED, MicroLED, or LCoS) with an optical combiner such as waveguides, freeform prisms, or reflective combiners to project imagery into the user’s line of sight. Key performance factors include low latency for comfortable head-tracked interaction, stable color and luminance uniformity for natural overlays, and precise pixel alignment to avoid visual fatigue. Power efficiency and thermal control are also critical, since AR glasses and head-mounted devices must remain lightweight, wearable, and reliable over long sessions.