Lionix launches ‘AR headset on a chip’

Clunky augmented reality (AR) headsets may be a thing of the past thanks to Lionix International. The Enschede-based microsystems developer has announced a fully integrated RGB laser light engine for retinal projection augmented reality headsets. The module integrates the laser diodes, micro-optics and electrical interfaces on a millimeter-sized chip – small enough to fit on a regular pair of glasses.

AR technology is considered to have a lot of potential, but headset developers looking for the brightest light sources are currently limited to bulky separate laser diodes. This makes for inelegant headsets and hinders production in high volumes. Lionix says production of its laser diode chip can be easily scaled to big numbers.

“This is an amazing opportunity for a disruptive AR company to be the first to market with really slim and fashionable glasses and leading imaging quality. While we’re ready to hit production right now and scale to the desired volumes, we also specialize in co-developing our solutions to meet our customers’ needs. So we’re a best-of-both-worlds combination of high standardization with the option to further customize the development for lead customers,” says Douwe Geuzebroek, Lionix’ VP marketing and sales.