LX AR CEO Zheng Yu: L1–L4 AR Framework and Array Waveguide for Consumer AR Glasses

LX AR CEO Zheng Yu: L1–L4 AR Framework and Array Waveguide for Consumer AR GlassesAgainst the accelerating commercialization of optical waveguide technology and augmented reality glasses (AR glasses), Zheng Yu, CEO of LX AR, proposed a forward-looking L1–L4 AR technology development framework. Built around three core dimensions — optical display capability, user experience, and scenario adaptability — this framework establishes a clearer industry roadmap for the evolution of near-eye display technologies.

Within this framework, array optical waveguide (waveguide display) is regarded as the most suitable core optical architecture for L2 and L3 consumer AR glasses. Compared with diffractive waveguides, reflective waveguides, and traditional birdbath optics, array optical waveguides offer a more favorable engineering balance in optical efficiency, high transmittance, exit pupil expansion (EPE) capability, and system-level integration, enabling a combination of ultra-thin form factor, high-definition display, and mass-production readiness.

At the L1 stage, AR devices mainly focus on basic information display, with relatively modest requirements for optical waveguide system performance. As the industry moves into the L2 stage, consumer AR glasses begin to prioritize all-day wearable comfort, which places higher demands on waveguide modules, optical engine design, and high-performance AR display. The L2-S30 array waveguide module launched by LX AR in September represents a mass-production-ready optical solution tailored for this stage.

At the L3 stage, AR glasses enter a higher performance threshold: 50°+ field of view (FOV) and 1080P+ resolution become baseline configurations, while support for digital twin, avatar, and spatial interaction capabilities becomes essential. From a technology-roadmap perspective, Zheng Yu believes that array optical waveguide is currently the closest optical architecture to the optimal solution for L3-level AR glasses. Its advantages in display uniformity, optical path stability, and system reliability provide a solid optical foundation for consumer AR display solutions.

Looking toward the L4 stage, AR is evolving from a “display device” into a spatial computing platform. Industry targets are shifting toward 70°+ ultra-wide FOV and 2K-level resolution, while placing stronger emphasis on privacy protection and multi-scenario adaptability. Through forward-looking in mass-production waveguide technology and AR optical module solutions, LX AR has built system-level technical reserves to support the evolution of next-generation mixed reality (MR) devices.