Samsung working with Merck to develop OLEDoS for XR display panels

Samsung is working with German firm Merck to develop OLEDoS (OLED on Silicon) panels that can be used in XR (Mixed Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) headsets, according to a report from ETNews. Merck develops materials that are used in manufacturing LCD and OLED panels, and with the increased interest in OLEDoS screens, the company is expanding into this segment.

Samsung Display is working with German firm Merck to develop OLEDoS panels for XR headsets

Sony was the first firm to commercialize OLEDoS panels, which are used in Apple’s first mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro. It was announced a few months ago and is scheduled to be released in the first quarter of 2024. Samsung and other tech firms are also working on mixed-reality headsets, and the South Korean firm is expected to launch its headset in December 2024. While Samsung has already acquired eMagin, which makes Micro OLED panels, the company also seems to be working on OLEDoS panels.

Merck is working on light-emitting layer materials and thin film bags for OLEDoS panels. The light-emitting layer emits light, while thin film bags stop the air and moisture from entering. Merck is said to be supplying the light-emitting layer to Samsung Display and thin film bags to Samsung Semiconductor. Merck is making large-scale investments in South Korea to work closely with its customers. It announced an investment of $600 million in 2021 and is pursuing expansion of production of OLED panels and looking to acquire semiconductor material firms.

Damien Toulu, SVP of Merck’s Display Solution business, recently visited South Korea. In an interview with ET News, he said, “Merck is participating as a partner in the development of Samsung’s ‘Oledos.’ Merck’s display and semiconductor businesses are creating synergy.” He expects the micro display market to fully mature after at least five years.

Image Source: Sony