Apple's Next MR Device: Balancing Pixel Precision and Affordability

Apple is reportedly working on a new mainstream mixed reality (MR) device featuring a 1500 PPI pixel density, according to recent reports. This new device aims to be more cost-effective compared to the Vision Pro, Apple's first MR offering launched earlier this year, which boasted a pixel density of 3391 PPI. It's expected that Japanese firm JDI and Samsung Display will play crucial roles in the development of OLED screens for this device.

JDI has reportedly supplied Apple with OLED samples for MR devices that utilize a 1500 PPI glass substrate, incorporating technology from Sony. This approach differentiates from the earlier strategy of using silicon-based OLEDoS displays with a higher pixel density, such as those involved in previous applications with Samsung Display.

Current advancements have reached the limit of 1500 PPI pixel density on glass substrates. The Vision Pro, which Apple unveiled last June and released earlier this year, used OLEDoS displays with an impressive 3391 PPI. Despite its premium $3500 price tag, the device fell short of sales expectations due to limited application scenarios.

Apple’s recent requests for development material at the 1700 PPI level from other display companies further highlight its commitment to advancing MR technology. The move to involve JDI and the shift toward lower-cost production techniques suggest an attempt to broaden the device's appeal and accessibility, potentially redefining user interaction in the process.