Accelerated Development of Silicon Carbide in the AR Glasses Tech Industry

Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape

The tech industry is witnessing a significant shift towards the adoption of silicon carbide (SiC) in wearable technology, particularly in smart glasses. Major players like Meta, Apple, and Huawei are rumored to be developing SiC-based glasses, indicating a growing trend towards this advanced material.

Xiaomi's Entry and Challenges

Xiaomi is set to release its AI glasses in June this year. However, the initial release will not include waveguide displays, which may put Xiaomi at a disadvantage compared to domestic competitors like Rokid and XREAL. These companies have already launched glasses with waveguide displays, differentiating themselves in the market. XREAL, in particular, is expected to use SiC in its future products, further intensifying the competition.

Technological Advantages of Silicon Carbide

SiC offers several advantages that make it highly suitable for advanced electronics:

1. High Refractive Index and Low Density: SiC has a refractive index exceeding 2.4, making it ideal for optical applications. Despite its high refractive index, SiC maintains a relatively low density of approximately 3.2 g/cm³, which is beneficial for lightweight wearable devices.

2. High Hardness: The exceptional hardness of SiC makes it scratch-resistant and durable, essential for devices that are frequently handled.

3. Superior Thermal Stability: SiC can withstand high temperatures without significant degradation, making it suitable for use in devices that generate heat during operation.

Production and Cost Considerations

The global production capacity for semi-insulating SiC is currently limited to fewer than 100,000 wafers annually, while conductive SiC production exceeds 800,000 wafers per year. The cost of SiC wafers varies with size, with 6-inch wafers costing around 2,000 yuan, 8-inch wafers approximately 5,000 to 6,000 yuan, and 12-inch wafers estimated to cost around 10,000 yuan.

Future Outlook

The adoption of SiC in smart glasses and other wearable technology is expected to grow significantly. Companies like XREAL are already exploring the use of SiC for waveguide displays, which could offer superior optical performance and user experience. While Xiaomi faces challenges with its current release, it is expected to introduce waveguide displays in its future products, potentially using SiC to enhance performance.

Conclusion

The accelerated development of SiC in the tech industry signals a move towards more advanced and durable materials in wearable technology. As companies like Meta, Apple, Huawei, and XREAL continue to innovate, the market for SiC-based devices is poised for significant growth. Xiaomi's entry into this market, while initially lacking waveguide displays, is expected to evolve with the introduction of more advanced features in the coming year.