STMicroelectronics, Metalenz Collaborate to Advance Metasurface Optics

Published Date : 7/11/2025 

A new license agreement between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz aims to accelerate the use of metasurface optics in biometrics, LIDAR, and smartphone camera assist technologies. The partnership targets high-volume applications across consumer, automotive, and industrial markets, leveraging advanced optical and semiconductor integration. 

The collaboration between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz marks a significant step in expanding the adoption of metasurface optics, a cutting-edge technology that promises to transform industries ranging from biometrics to robotics. This new license agreement allows STMicroelectronics to integrate Metalenz’s proprietary intellectual property (IP) into its 300mm semiconductor and optics manufacturing processes, opening doors for innovative applications. The partnership focuses on high-volume use cases, including gesture recognition, object detection, and robotics, which are becoming increasingly critical in both consumer and industrial sectors. n n nMetasurface optics, which use nanostructures to manipulate light with precision, are gaining traction as a game-changer for optical systems. The Yole Group forecasts that the metasurface optics market will reach $2 billion by 2029, underscoring the growing demand for compact, high-performance optical solutions. STMicroelectronics, a leader in semiconductor and imaging technologies, has already shipped over 140 million metasurface optics and FlightSense modules using Metalenz’s IP since 2022. This partnership is expected to further solidify its position as a key player in the field. n n nMetalenz’s PolarID face biometrics system, designed for smartphone integration, is a prime example of how metasurface optics can enhance security and user experience. The company has also explored medical diagnostic applications, leveraging polarization information to improve accuracy. STMicroelectronics’ CEO, Alexandre Balmefrezol, emphasized the company’s unique capability to combine optics and semiconductor technology, stating that this integration ensures high precision, cost-effectiveness, and scalability for mass-market applications. n n nThe collaboration also highlights the importance of 3D sensing in modern devices. STMicroelectronics’ FlightSense technology, used in Windows Hello for human presence detection, demonstrates the versatility of metasurface optics in everyday scenarios. Metalenz’s CEO, Rob Devlin, noted that the partnership positions both companies as dominant forces in the emerging metasurface market, with expanding use cases for 3D sensing in areas like robotics and automotive systems. n n nBeyond smartphones, the partnership aims to address challenges in automotive and industrial sectors. For instance, LIDAR systems, which rely on precise optical components, could benefit from metasurface optics to improve performance and reduce costs. Similarly, gesture recognition in smart home devices and object detection in autonomous vehicles may see significant advancements through this collaboration. The integration of Metalenz’s IP into STMicroelectronics’ manufacturing processes ensures that these innovations can be scaled efficiently to meet market demands. n n nAs the metasurface optics market continues to grow, the STMicroelectronics-Metalenz partnership is poised to drive adoption across multiple industries. By combining their expertise, the two companies are not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for future applications that could redefine how we interact with technology. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is metasurface optics, and why is it important?

A: Metasurface optics involves using nanostructures to control light with high precision, enabling compact and efficient optical systems. It’s crucial for applications like biometrics, LIDAR, and robotics, offering improved performance and cost savings.

Q: How does the STMicroelectronics-Metalenz partnership benefit the market?

A: The partnership accelerates the adoption of metasurface optics by combining STMicroelectronics’ semiconductor expertise with Metalenz’s IP. This integration allows for scalable, high-precision solutions across consumer, automotive, and industrial sectors.

Q: What are the key applications of this technology?

A: Key applications include biometric security, LIDAR for autonomous vehicles, gesture recognition, object detection, and smartphone camera assist features. These use cases are critical for both consumer and industrial markets.

Q: What does the Yole Group forecast say about metasurface optics?

A: The Yole Group predicts the metasurface optics market will reach $2 billion by 2029, highlighting its growing importance in industries seeking advanced optical solutions.

Q: How does FlightSense technology play a role in this collaboration?

A: FlightSense, developed by STMicroelectronics, is used in applications like human presence detection for Windows Hello. The partnership enhances its capabilities, enabling broader use in 3D sensing and other high-volume applications. 

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