MetaOptics is making smartphone lenses more sustainable

MetaOptics uses semiconductor fabrication techniques to make lenses lighter and more eco-friendly. / Photo credit: MetaOptics

Semiconductor optics startup MetaOptics is one of the winners of the inaugural Design AI and Tech Awards, which spotlights innovations by startups, enterprises, and corporations in Singapore.

MetaOptics Technologies is using AI and nanophotonics to overhaul traditional lens systems used in consumer electronics, augmented and virtual reality, and scientific imaging.

Its flagship innovation, the Advanced Color Metalens Imaging System, replaces multi-layer plastic lenses with a single-layer glass metalens.

Using semiconductor fabrication techniques, the system reduces the thickness and weight of camera modules while offering enhanced durability and color accuracy.

Innovative lenses

Based on feedback from the industry, MetaOptics identified problems with bulky optics as well as environmental concerns in compact devices.

The cameras in today’s smartphones and point-and-shoot devices typically rely on stacked layers of plastic or glass lenses to focus light.

To address these concerns, MetaOptics turned to metalenses, which are flat optical components that can perform the same function as typical lenses with just a single layer of nanostructures.

The company’s technology uses semiconductor fabrication techniques to etch millions of microscopic pillars – each about 1/800th the width of a human hair – onto glass wafers. A 1.5-millimeter lens can contain more than 6 million of these pillars, which are engineered to manipulate light and focus images.

The company worked with engineers, research scientists, designers, and software developers to create a single-layer glass lens that produces more vibrant images at a reasonable quality.

MetaOptics Technologies deputy CEO Aloysius Chua / Photo credit: Winston Chuang

Compared with conventional systems, MetaOptics’ lenses can reduce optical thickness, weight, and manufacturing costs. The elimination of plastic components also cuts down waste and contributes to a more sustainable manufacturing model.

To further enhance imaging, MetaOptics developed AI-based software that automatically fine-tunes contrast, sharpness, and noise.

Industry recognition and interest