Samsung has announced a new lens technology developed in collaboration with Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH). This technology, called “Metalens,” directly addresses the long-standing problem of protrusion in smartphone cameras. According to company data, the new system can reduce the thickness of camera modules by 20%.
Samsung to Launch Metalens Technology
The technology, detailed in a study published in the journal Nature Communications, is designed to replace traditional curved glass lenses. Metalens uses nanostructures thinner than a human hair to direct light.
This simplifies the manufacturing process and significantly reduces physical thickness. A typical camera module, currently 2 millimeters thick, can be reduced to 1.6 millimeters with this system.
Samsung’s new approach has the potential to pave the way for significant changes, particularly in mobile device designs. While large camera sensors today offer better low-light performance, their sheer size can cause protrusions in devices. By eliminating this physical limitation, Metalens could enable flatter and more stylish designs.
The technology has already begun testing in some applications. The company is first testing Metalens on the infrared eye cameras in wide-angle XR headsets. Tests indicate that accurate iris recognition and pupil tracking are achieved across a 120-degree viewing angle.
A significant increase in image clarity has also been observed, with the MTF value increasing from 50% to 72%. Following these tests, Samsung plans to adapt the technology to visible-light cameras. This will allow Metalens to find a place not only in AR/VR devices but also directly in smartphones.
Integrating Metalens into smartphones aims to reduce camera protrusions. This development could pave the way for thinner, more compact, and more aesthetically pleasing designs, particularly in premium phones.
While Samsung’s exact plans for this technology have not yet been announced, some leaks have claimed that the Galaxy S25 series will feature a new design that minimizes camera protrusions.
{{user}} {{datetime}}
{{text}}