Following the footsteps of Samsung, the LG Innotek has started the development of the Under Panel Camera (UPC). According to industry sources, LG is working at advanced stages to eliminate the issue of low light in under-display cameras. They have even applied for several patents to resolve the issues. LG seems to be preparing the UPC for Apple iPhones, which are slated to launch in 2026.

UPC refers to the Under display Camera, which is not visible to the users normally, allowing users to enjoy the full display view without any distraction. It elevates the immersive display experience, as the punch hole is only visible when using the front camera, otherwise, it remains invisible. However, there are certain disadvantages too, including less light reaching the camera lens which may deteriorate the overall captured image quality. The Under Display camera fails to impress advanced photography users who often tend to shoot high-resolution photos.

LG FreeForm Optic Lens to Compensate Light Loss in UPC

LG is working on these bottlenecks and is preparing a special lens called the “Freeform Optic” lens which will overcome the insufficient light limitation. The new module has multiple lenses including a “free curve” shape lens which brings in more light suitable for quality photography. LG Innotek applied for a similar patent in 2021 describing the Optical module and other aspects of the new Freeform lens technique. As per patent specifications, “As the front (full) display of smartphones is required, we are applying a UPC that hides the front camera under the display (omitted),” but also added, “If the camera is placed under the display, there is a loss of light due to the display panel. There are problems such as deterioration in camera module image quality, reduction in brightness, and occurrence of ghosts and flares. As the brightness drops to 20% of the existing level, a new structural optical system is required that compensates for the brightness or supports improved resolution and illuminance regardless of the camera position.”  (Translated)

The patent details a solution for the problem, and describes, “By applying a freeform lens, the thickness of the peripheral lens can be controlled, thereby reducing the aberration of the optical system and optical module (a phenomenon in which images are blurred due to the shape of the lens, etc.), and increasing the light ratio around the optical system and optical module. The image quality of the area can be improved.” (Translated)

LG Display started the UPC development and will further improve the light transmission through the lens by 20% by 2023 and by 40% in 2024. The company will use a transparent PI substrate instead of the normal PI substrate for UPC.

Such advancements are required as Apple plans to bring its Face ID to Under Panel Cameras by 2026. LG is diligently working to improve the UPC quality that will improve its competition with Samsung Display which already developed such modules. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 are using the Under Panel Cameras.

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