An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Benjamin Fan: A Pioneer in AR/VR Optics

Introduction

In the heart of Hong Kong's Science Park, amidst the bustling city's spring chill, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Benjamin Fan, a renowned figure in the global AR/VR industry. As a scientist, entrepreneur, and member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, Dr. Fan has left an indelible mark on the development of VR/AR optics. From Google Glass to the F-35/F-22 fighter jet helmets, and even Apple Vision Pro, his inventions like silicon microdisplays and Pancake optics have been instrumental in shaping these groundbreaking products.

A Journey of Academic Excellence and Cross-Cultural Influence

Dr. Fan's journey began in Shanghai, where he was born, and continued in Hong Kong, where he grew up. His early years were marked by challenges, including adapting to a new language and environment. Despite initial struggles, he excelled academically, eventually securing a place at the prestigious St. Paul's College. His pursuit of higher education led him to the University of California, Berkeley, and later to Harvard University, where he cultivated a multidisciplinary approach to learning. This cross-cultural and academic background has profoundly influenced his innovative thinking and success in the field of optics.

The MIT Lincoln Laboratory Experience: Where Dreams Meet Reality

After completing his doctorate, Dr. Fan joined the MIT Lincoln Laboratory, a hub of cutting-edge research. This period was the most productive of his scientific career, where he published numerous papers and patented groundbreaking technologies. One of his notable inventions during this time was a glass insulation technique using coatings, which MIT regarded as comparable to Edison's invention of the light bulb. This innovation not only showcased his technical prowess but also laid the foundation for future developments in solar energy and semiconductor materials.

The Birth of Kopin: Pioneering Silicon Microdisplays

In 1985, Dr. Fan founded Kopin, a company that would become a leader in silicon microdisplay technology. The establishment of Kopin was a natural progression from his research at MIT, where he had already begun exploring the commercial potential of his inventions. With support from investors like Venrock, Kopin quickly gained traction, securing contracts with major corporations such as Boeing and Qualcomm. Dr. Fan's leadership at Kopin for over three decades has driven significant advancements in microdisplay technology, making it a household name in the industry.

From Silicon Microdisplays to Pancake Optics: A Decade of Innovation

Dr. Fan's work on silicon microdisplays received substantial government funding and recognition, solidifying his position as a leading expert in the field. His team's development of Pancake optics in the early 2010s revolutionized VR headsets by reducing their size and weight while maintaining image quality. This innovation, inspired by the layered structure of pancakes, has been widely adopted in consumer VR devices, including those from Apple, Huawei, and Meta.

The Vision Behind Solos: Making AR/AI Glasses Accessible

Recognizing the need for comfortable, stylish, and affordable AR/AI glasses, Dr. Fan founded Solos in 2019. With a focus on consumer needs, Solos aims to integrate advanced technology into everyday eyewear. The company's emphasis on lightweight design, diverse form factors, voice interaction, and local AI processing reflects Dr. Fan's commitment to creating products that are both functional and user-friendly.

Market Competition and the Path to Affordability

The AR/AI glasses market is witnessing intense competition, with numerous players vying for dominance. Dr. Fan believes this competition is beneficial for driving innovation but cautions that sustainability and long-term vision are crucial. He emphasizes the importance of balancing technological advancement with cost control to make AR/AI glasses accessible to the masses, much like how smartphones evolved from luxury items to everyday essentials.

Design Philosophy: Prioritizing the User Experience

Dr. Fan staunchly advocates for a design philosophy centered on the user. He argues that AR/AI glasses must first and foremost be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, rather than merely showcasing technological prowess. His five design principles—human-centricity, prioritizing the physical world, maintaining situational awareness, prioritizing voice interaction, and balancing design with profitability—guide the development of Solos' products, ensuring they meet real-world user needs.

The Future of AR Glasses and Advice for the Next Generation

Looking ahead, Dr. Fan acknowledges the challenges in miniaturizing AR glasses to the size of contact lenses or integrating brain-computer interfaces. However, he remains optimistic about incremental advancements that will enhance the practicality and acceptance of AR technology. For aspiring professionals in the AR/VR/AI fields, he stresses the importance of a strong foundation in core disciplines, interdisciplinary collaboration, patience, and a sense of social responsibility.

Conclusion

Dr. Benjamin Fan's career is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and a user-centric approach. His contributions to AR/VR optics have not only transformed the industry but have also paved the way for future advancements. As the AR/AI glasses market continues to evolve, Dr. Fan's insights and principles will undoubtedly remain relevant, guiding the development of technologies that enhance human life in meaningful ways.