Will iPhones Eventually Use a Holographic Display?

Despite the prevalence of holographic displays in science fiction, most notably in the Minority Report series, the practical application of this technology in consumer devices is still decades away. Electronic holography requires vast amounts of data processing and transmission, and the current display technology is not yet suitable for a mass-market product.

While it’s possible that future technology might make holography a reality, it’s unlikely to be widespread. The fundamental issue lies in the nature of holographic displays. Real holograms are transparent, and a very high-power laser is necessary to achieve reasonable brightness, which would make the display extremely power-intensive and impractical for everyday use.

Current Technological Possibilities

Efforts to simulate holographic effects exist, and some promising developments are on the horizon. Projection systems are becoming increasingly small and efficient, and eye-tracking technology is improving. By beaming an image directly into each eye, it’s possible to create a 3D augmented reality experience akin to that seen in Minority Report. All that’s needed is a projection system, a variable focus lens (which already exists), and a galvanometer mirror (galvo).

However, it’s unlikely that Apple, known for its focus on innovation, will be at the forefront of this technology. The company has historically chosen to innovate in areas where it can provide a significant edge, such as with the introduction of touchscreens and OLED displays. Instead, it’s more plausible that smaller, niche tech companies or startups will pioneer holographic and AR technologies.

Real vs. Simulated Holographic Displays

Real holographic displays, which create an exact three-dimensional image that can be interacted with, have significant limitations. The issue lies primarily in visibility and battery efficiency. In a dimly lit room, a true hologram can be impressive, but when exposed to bright light, such as sunlight, the image would be almost impossible to see. This makes it impractical for any form of direct, bright-light use, such as daily smartphone usage.

Current simulated holographic displays, while not achieving the exact depth and visibility of a real hologram, can offer enhanced visual effects. These displays often use complex lighting techniques and projection technologies to create the illusion of a 3D image. While these displays can provide a visually appealing experience, the contrast and brightness limitations still make them less than ideal for widespread consumer use.

The Future of Display Technology

For true holographic displays to become practical, significant advancements in display efficacy are necessary. While it’s conceivable that such technology could eventually become available, it’s important to note that advancements in this area have often been preceded by major breakthroughs in battery technology and other ancillary technologies.

Despite the allure of holographic displays, it’s more likely that we will continue to see incremental improvements in augmented reality technologies. These advances might include more realistic and efficient AR markers, more powerful and less obtrusive headwear, and more sophisticated projection systems. These technologies can offer users a more immersive experience than a true holographic display, even if they don’t provide the full 3D transparency of a true hologram.