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Transforming Display Technology: The Smartkem and AUO Partnership

In a groundbreaking move, Smartkem, a pioneer in display technology, has teamed up with AUO, the leading display manufacturer from Taiwan, to develop an innovative generation of microLED displays. Announced on November 25, 2024, this partnership is set to pave the way for the world's first advanced rollable, transparent microLED display—an achievement anticipated to revolutionize the display market.

The Future of MicroLED Displays

Smartkem's organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) are positioned as disruptors in the display sector. These transistors enable higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and superior brightness when compared to traditional display technologies. The real innovation lies in the novel rollable feature of the upcoming microLED display, which is made possible by Smartkem's unique processing techniques that can operate at low temperatures. This allows the integration of transistors directly onto microLEDs without the cumbersome processes involved in other conventional manufacturing methods.

Ian Jenks, the Chairman and CEO of Smartkem, expressed confidence in this collaboration, stating, "By working with AUO, we are bringing our unique transistor technology to the forefront of the microLED display market—positioning us to make these high-end TVs widely affordable. Our goal is to reduce the current steep prices from $100,000 down to a true mass-market level."

A Game Changer in Production Techniques

One of the project's distinguishing features is Smartkem's ability to utilize low-cost, flexible plastic substrates instead of glass. This not only drives down manufacturing costs but also opens up new avenues for display design, making them thin, lightweight, and adaptable for various applications.

Dr. Wei-Lung Liau, Chief Technology Officer of AUO, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, "For years, AUO has invested in developing cutting-edge MicroLED technology, and this partnership is a crucial step in moving toward mass production. Together, we are leveraging proprietary materials from Smartkem to enhance transparency and flexibility in microLED displays."

Potential Market Impact and Future Directions

The implications of this partnership extend beyond just technical innovation. Leading industry analysts, such as Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), have noted that this project could stimulate substantial market interest if successful. The affordability and performance of microLED displays would appeal to a broader consumer base, thereby revolutionizing how we perceive and use display technology.

Scheduled to commence on January 1, 2025, this initiative has been awarded a grant under the 2024 Taiwan-UK Research Development Collaboration initiative. The project aims not only to advance the microLED display technology but also to strengthen the collaborative ties between Taiwan and the UK, fostering innovation through shared expertise.

About Smartkem and AUO

Smartkem is at the forefront of reshaping electronics with its patented TRUFLEX® liquid semiconductor polymers. The company's R&D facility located in Manchester, UK, focuses on developing materials that support low-temperature printing processes—making their technology compatible with existing manufacturing systems. They possess an impressive portfolio of intellectual property, including 125 granted patents, which illustrates their significant contributions and potential within the industry.

AUO, founded in 1996, is noted for pushing the boundaries of display-centric technologies across a range of applications, from smart mobility to industrial intelligence. With a global workforce of 38,000 and annual revenues reaching USD 8.07 billion, AUO remains a significant player within the international display market.

Both companies are now focused on propelling microLED technology into the mainstream, challenging existing display paradigms, and setting the stage for a new era of affordable, high-quality displays that redefine consumer electronics.