Why XR Devices Are Key to the 6G Era

The introduction of 4G was a decisive factor in the popularization of smartphones. 3G technically enabled ‘data communication’, but it was difficult for consumers to experience it. On the other hand, 4G brought about visible changes such as high-resolution video streaming, real-time games, and SNS activation, and the development of smartphone displays was at the center of this experience. As screens became larger, clearer, and faster, the advancement of network speeds became an everyday experience.

The communications industry is now preparing for the commercialization of 6G, targeting around 2030. 6G supports speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G (up to 1 Tbps), delay times of less than 1 ms, and broadband hyperconnectivity. However, this level of speed is difficult to experience simply by downloading content or watching videos. The only interface that allows you to ‘experience’ the speed and low-latency characteristics of 6G is XR (eXtended Reality), or extended reality devices.

XR includes AR, VR, and MR, and is considered a core service of 6G. However, XR devices that will implement this still face various technical challenges, such as high-resolution displays, weight reduction, heat control, and optical system configuration. In particular, the display is the center of the XR experience quality. Based on a single eye, a resolution of 2000×2000 or higher, a pixel density of 100PPD or higher, and high brightness of 5,000 to 10,000 nits or higher are required, which far exceeds the level of general smartphones.

Currently, major XR companies and display companies are moving as follows.

• Google is unveiling the Android XR platform through I/O in 2024 and is developing XR headsets and smart glasses. In particular, it is known that OLEDoS-based displays supplied by XREAL are used in smart glasses. Google’s XR strategy is focused on building a platform-hardware-content integration ecosystem targeting Apple Vision Pro.
• Apple has taken the lead in the premium XR market with Vision Pro using OLEDoS, and is maintaining the same direction in subsequent models.
• Samsung is developing ultra-high-resolution displays for XR centered on OLEDoS and LEDoS technologies, and they are scheduled to be installed in Samsung Electronics’ XR headsets and smart glasses.
• LG Display is accelerating its OLEDoS core technology based on its OLED technology competitiveness.
• BOE is mass-producing OLEDoS with support from the Chinese government, and is supplying it to local XR startups and global partners.
• JBD is applying ultra-high-brightness displays based on LEDoS to small AR devices, and is attracting attention for implementing brightness of over 100,000 nits.

In this way, displays for XR devices are divided into two axes: OLEDoS and LEDoS. OLEDoS has strengths in resolution and color expression, while LEDoS has strengths in brightness and lifespan, and they are selected according to the purpose of each device.

Ultimately, 6G means not only the evolution of network speeds, but also the redefinition of the human-machine interface. If displays were at the center when moving from 3G to 4G, then XR devices and display technology will take that place in 6G. In order for consumers to ‘feel’ 6G, technology must now be implemented through a new window called XR.

Changwook HAN, Executive Vice President/Analyst at UBI Research (cwhan@ubiresearch.com)

UBI Research’s Micro Display Report