STMicroelectronics, Metalenz Team Up to Speed Metasurface Optics in Smartph

Published Date : 7/11/2025 

STMicroelectronics and Metalenz are expanding their collaboration to drive the adoption of metasurface optics, targeting high-volume applications in smartphones, automotive, and industrial sectors. The new license agreement aims to enhance biometric security, LIDAR, and gesture recognition technologies, with a projected $2 billion market by 2029. 

The partnership between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz has taken a significant leap forward, aiming to revolutionize the integration of metasurface optics across cutting-edge technologies. This collaboration is set to address the growing demand for advanced optical solutions in consumer, automotive, and industrial markets. By combining STMicroelectronics' semiconductor expertise with Metalenz's innovative metasurface technology, the two companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of next-generation optical applications. n nMetasurface optics, a cutting-edge field that manipulates light at the nanoscale, is gaining traction for its potential to replace traditional optical systems. This partnership is expected to streamline the adoption of such technology, particularly in areas like biometrics, LIDAR, and camera-assisted applications. The new license agreement allows STMicroelectronics to leverage Metalenz's intellectual property (IP) in its 300mm semiconductor and optics manufacturing, marking a strategic move to scale production efficiently. n nOne of the key applications of this technology is in biometric systems, where Metalenz's PolarID face biometrics solution is already making waves. This system offers enhanced security and accuracy for smartphone implementations, while also exploring potential medical diagnostic applications. The integration of such advanced biometric tools could redefine user authentication and data security in the tech industry. n nThe partnership's scope extends beyond smartphones. STMicroelectronics and Metalenz are targeting high-volume use cases in automotive and industrial sectors, including gesture recognition, object detection, and robotics. These applications are expected to benefit from the precision and scalability of metasurface optics, which can be manufactured at a lower cost compared to traditional methods. n nAccording to a market forecast by Yole Group, the metasurface optics market is projected to reach $2 billion by 2029. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for compact, high-performance optical components in various industries. The collaboration between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, leveraging their combined expertise to meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses. n nAlexandre Balmefrezol, EVP and GM of STMicroelectronics’s Imaging sub-group, emphasized the significance of the partnership. He stated that STMicroelectronics is the only supplier offering a unique combination of optics and semiconductor technology. The company has already shipped over 140 million metasurface optics and FlightSense modules using Metalenz IP since 2022. This new license agreement is expected to further solidify STMicroelectronics' technology leadership in consumer, industrial, and automotive segments. n nThe integration of Metalenz technology with STMicroelectronics' FlightSense was a milestone for the startup, marking its market debut. FlightSense is already being used in applications like Human Presence Detection for Windows Hello, showcasing the versatility of the technology. This collaboration not only enhances STMicroelectronics' product offerings but also opens up new opportunities for innovation in 3D sensing and optical technology. n nRob Devlin, CEO of Metalenz, highlighted the potential of the partnership. He noted that as use cases for 3D sensing expand, the collaboration between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz will solidify their position as dominant forces in the emerging metasurface market. This synergy is expected to drive the development of new applications, from advanced biometrics to robotics and beyond. n nThe background of both companies plays a crucial role in this partnership. STMicroelectronics, a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, has a long history of innovation in imaging and sensor technologies. Metalenz, a startup focused on metasurface optics, has quickly established itself as a pioneer in the field. Their combined strengths create a powerful foundation for advancing optical solutions in a rapidly evolving market. n nAs the demand for compact, high-performance optical components continues to grow, the STMicroelectronics and Metalenz partnership is poised to lead the charge. By addressing the challenges of scalability, cost, and precision, this collaboration is set to transform the landscape of optical technology. The potential applications are vast, ranging from smartphone biometrics to automotive safety systems and industrial automation. n nThe future of metasurface optics looks promising, with the partnership between STMicroelectronics and Metalenz driving innovation and adoption. As the market evolves, this collaboration is expected to unlock new possibilities, ensuring that both companies remain at the forefront of technological advancement. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main goal of the STMicroelectronics and Metalenz partnership?

A: The partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of metasurface optics in high-volume applications like biometrics, LIDAR, and gesture recognition, leveraging their combined expertise to meet market demands.

Q: How does metasurface optics differ from traditional optical systems?

A: Metasurface optics manipulate light at the nanoscale, offering compact, high-performance solutions that can replace traditional optical systems with improved precision and cost-effectiveness.

Q: What market growth is projected for metasurface optics?

A: The market for metasurface optics is expected to reach $2 billion by 2029, driven by demand in consumer, automotive, and industrial sectors.

Q: What are some key applications of the partnership's technology?

A: Key applications include biometric security, LIDAR, gesture recognition, object detection, and robotics, with potential expansions into medical diagnostics and industrial automation.

Q: How does STMicroelectronics' FlightSense technology contribute to the partnership?

A: FlightSense, integrated with Metalenz's IP, enables advanced 3D sensing and human presence detection, enhancing applications like smartphone biometrics and automotive safety systems. 

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