Webinar: Waveguide Technologies and Substrate Choices Shaping the Next Generation of AR and AI Smart Glasses
Presenter: Thomas Bithell, Technology Analyst, IDTechEx
Date: Thursday 26 February 2026
The optics used in augmented reality (AR) play a significant role in developing devices with acceptable weight, battery life and form factor. This webinar will discuss how technology and material decisions are shaping the outlook for the adoption of different waveguide architectures and substrates in AR devices.
Drawing on research from the new IDTechEx market report "Optics for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2026-2036: Technologies, Forecasts, Markets", this 30-minute webinar presented by Technology Analyst Thomas Bithell will discuss:
· An introduction to the AR smart glasses market and the optics technologies required.
· Insights into the advantages and disadvantages of reflective and diffractive waveguide technologies.
· Discussion of waveguide substrate choices, including glass, polymer and silicon carbide.
· Market outlook and insight into IDTechEx forecasts for the AR market and optics technology adoption.
Choose your preferred time zone - the webinar runs three times during the day.
Can't attend live? Register anyway to receive the on-demand recording and presentation slides, available for a limited time.