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4c. Optics and Photonics

Scope​

Europe has strong leadership in optics and photonics technologies, which are fundamental enablers for XR displays, sensing systems, and communication infrastructure supporting Virtual Worlds.

Key Research Areas​

Display Technologies​

  • Micro-LED and OLED displays
  • Holographic displays
  • Waveguide optics for AR
  • Foveated rendering optics
  • High-resolution, low-power displays

Optical Components​

  • Compact optical systems for XR
  • Diffractive and refractive optics
  • Adaptive optics for vision correction
  • Lightweight optical materials
  • Manufacturing scalability

Sensing and Imaging​

  • LiDAR and depth sensing
  • Eye tracking optical systems
  • Hand and gesture tracking optics
  • Spatial mapping sensors
  • Miniaturized imaging systems

Photonic Communications​

  • Optical interconnects for data centers
  • Free-space optical communications
  • Silicon photonics integration
  • High-bandwidth optical networks
  • Energy-efficient optical transmission

European Strengths​

Europe has world-leading capabilities in:

  • Precision optics manufacturing
  • Photonics research and innovation
  • Optical materials and coatings
  • Industrial photonics applications
  • Academic and industrial collaboration

Strategic Recommendations​

For Policymakers​

  1. Support European photonics industry and R&D
  2. Fund optics manufacturing infrastructure
  3. Promote European standards for optical components
  4. Facilitate academia-industry collaboration
  5. Protect intellectual property in photonics

For Industry​

  1. Invest in next-generation display technologies
  2. Develop compact, efficient optical systems
  3. Scale manufacturing of XR optical components
  4. Collaborate on European supply chains
  5. Pursue sustainable photonics solutions

For Research Institutions​

  1. Advance micro-display technologies
  2. Research novel optical architectures
  3. Develop energy-efficient photonic devices
  4. Prototype integrated optical systems
  5. Transfer technology to European industry

Cross-References​

  • 2a. Visualisation, Sensing, Devices: For display and sensor technologies
  • 3c. Economics: For European industrial competitiveness
  • 3d. Sustainability: For energy-efficient photonics
  • 4b. Infrastructure: For optical communications

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