Lei Zhao

Lei Zhao

Yongjiang Laboratory, Researcher

Lei Zhao is a distinguished young expert in near-eye optics and display optics. She earned her bachelor's degree from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Nanjing University and subsequently obtained her Ph.D. from the Liquid Crystal Institute at Kent State University. She then joined Apple Inc., where she served as a Senior Display Optical Engineer. Upon returning to China, she became a researcher at the Advanced Display and Perception Research Center of Yongjiang Laboratory.

Recent Trends in AR Waveguide Design and Fabrication

Abstract：

Optical waveguides have become a central technology in modern augmented reality displays, enabling lightweight and glasses-like form factors. Recent progress in waveguide design and fabrication reflects a broader shift toward improved visual quality, wider field of view, and scalable manufacturing. Researchers and industry are exploring new design approaches to enhance image uniformity, brightness, and color performance, while fabrication methods continue to evolve to support higher yield and lower cost. At the same time, practical considerations such as system integration, manufacturability, and user experience are playing an increasingly important role in waveguide development. This talk provides an overview of the latest trends in AR waveguide design and fabrication, highlights key challenges, and discusses future directions toward mass-market, high-performance AR displays.