Sharp splits off its display technology unit, to focus on MicroLED displays

According to reports from Japan, Sharp plans to split-off its display unit, in order to better focus on MicroLED technology development. The spin-off will also enable the new company to more easily secure funds, according to the report.

The new unit will be called Sharp Display Technology, or SDTC, and will be based in Kameyama. SDTC will focus on microLED technologies as its next-generation display tech, but in the meantime the company will also take over Sharp's existing LCD factories (and OLED R&D lines). The company aims to use the Hakusan LCD factory (recently acquired from JDI) for microLED R&D - and eventual production site.

Earlier this year Japan's Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun reported that Sharp is developing MicroLED microdisplays, with an aim to mass produce such panels in 2023 or 2024 for AR and VR applications. Sharp apparently already developed two prototypes, including a 0.38" 1053 PPI color one and a 0.13" 3000 PPI blue display.

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Posted: Oct 03,2020 by Ron Mertens