Orion Secures Over $2 Million in LED Lighting Retrofit Projects from Leading U.S. Automotive OEM

Orion Energy Systems announced it has been awarded projects totaling more than $2 million from a longstanding automotive OEM customer. These projects encompass the project management, installation, and commissioning of LED lighting systems across multiple manufacturing facilities in the United States.

Orion’s selection for this project highlights the company’s established reputation for excellence in LED lighting system project management. The upcoming LED upgrades are designed to enhance energy efficiency and support the customer’s sustainability and workplace safety objectives.

Orion expects to complete the projects before the close of its FY 2025 year ending March 31, 2025. Orion has already received purchase orders for the first project, and the second project is scheduled to begin in Orion’s fiscal Q3.

Xm-Plus’ LED Driver IC Empowers the Innovation of LED Display Industry

In 2024, LED display industry has showed positive signs with the first introduction of LED virtual production technology at Chinese Spring Festival Gala, the debut of the world's first acoustically transparent LED cinema screen, and the first entry of Olympic event broadcast in Chinese cinema. This, to some extent, reflects the thriving trend of LED display in emerging markets, despite the overall lackluster global economy. Truth be told, what is the actual market situation?

On the demand side, according to TrendForce, while domestic demand recovery has fallen short of expectations, overseas market demand still shows an upward trend, particularly in regions like Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where LED display industry is still in its early stage. Against this backdrop, the overall demand for LED display has been on the rise over the past two years.

On the application side, the potential of emerging applications such as LED virtual production, LED cinema screen, and LED All-in-One display is highly recognized. Although growth has slowed down in 2023, these markets are still greeted by high market enthusiasm, and have seen market size gradually expand.
TrendForce predicts that shipment of LED All-in-One display will exceed 6,000 units in 2024, compared to about 4,000 units in the past two years.

With respect to LED cinema, TrendForce estimates that the global installed base of LED cinema screen will reach 160 units this year. Given that the total market size of global high-end LED cinema screen is 30,000 units, while the current penetration rate is only about 0.5%, there is still significant room for the development of LED display technology in this market. Moreover, cinemas are becoming more proactive in adopting LED screens. In China, approximately 40 LED cinema halls were opened as of July 2024, among which 19 halls were newly added in 2024.

As to LED virtual production, the total number of LED virtual production studios in China has reached 41 to date, with 10 new studios added this year.

Currently, China has attached more importance to the development of both LED virtual production and LED cinema screen industries by launching related supporting policies, which further boosts the confidence of the industry chain and signals a promising market outlook.

On the supply side, LED display manufacturers continue to leverage innovative technologies to drive growth in emerging markets, deploying diversified packaging technologies for various application scenarios. Among them, COB (Chip on Board) display has enjoyed rapid growth and MiP (Mini/Micro LED in Package) LED display seen increasing demand in recent years, which enable LED display to open up more application markets.

Overall, TrendForce remains sanguine about the prospect for LED display industry. It estimates that the demands for LED display in both Chinese and international markets are projected to trend upward, fueled by fine pitch and Mini LED displays. According to TrendForce's 2024 Global LED Video Wall Market Analysis Report, the market size of LED video wall is expected to grow to USD 10.7 billion in 2027.

Govee Unveils Innovative Curtain Lights 2

Govee, an innovator in the smart lighting industry, is launching the second generation of Curtain Lights, in a special collaboration with DreamWorks Animation's thrilling new epic adventure, The Wild Robot, only in theaters beginning September 27, 2024.

The Wild Robot follows the journey of a robot—ROZZUM unit 7134 (Oscar winner Lupita Nyong'o), "Roz" for short — that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling named Brightbill. The film is a powerful story about the discovery of self, a thrilling examination of the bridge between technology and nature and a moving exploration of what it means to be alive and connected to all living things.

Just as Roz in The Wild Robot evolves from a marooned robot into a cherished member of her community, The Wild Robot-themed Govee Curtain Lights 2 transform spaces from mundane to magical. Govee has designed three exclusive themed lighting effects for the Curtain Lights 2, each corresponding to pivotal moments in The Wild Robot that highlight Roz's journey of growth and emotional development. These custom lighting effects, named "Beginning," "Baby Brightbill," and "Bonding," reflect the film's themes and embody the concept of "More than Programmed."

In addition to the film-specific effects, Govee has upgraded the fan-favorite Curtain Lights 2 to be better than ever before. With advanced pattern display technology and a new Bluetooth chip, these lights deliver smoother, brighter and more captivating visual effects. The versatile canvas display system empowers users to let their creativity run wild with up to ten customizable layers, allowing them to create personalized lighting designs inspired by the film or their imagination.

Neat RGB LED Light Uses MagSafe to Attach to Your iPhone

Moonside’s new MagLight is a versatile gadget that combines a bright LED light, a power bank, and a phone stand, making it perfect for mobile photographers and content creators on the go.

Many smartphone users add accessories like lights to their setups. With MagLight, mobile shooters now have a native option that attaches to any phone using magnets!

Moonside’s MagLight (not to be confused with the popular metal flashlight) is a compact RGB LED light that attaches to the back of an iPhone using MagSafe or to Android phones via a magnetic sticker. This credit card-sized light sits flush against the phone, providing a much-needed boost of light for photos. It features 67 individually-assignable LEDs, delivering a maximum output of 680 lumens.

OLED Market to Grow by USD 65.78 Billion from 2024-2028

The global organic light-emitting diode market size is estimated to grow by USD 65.78 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  18.52%  during the forecast period. Increasing number of patent-related activities by market vendors is driving market growth, with a trend towards increasing adoption of oled displays in automotive sector.

The automotive industry is experiencing a shift towards advanced visual technologies, with organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays gaining significant traction. OLED technology offers vibrant colors, high contrast ratios, and exceptional color reproduction, making it an ideal choice for various in-vehicle applications. The market for OLED displays in the automotive sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 14% between 2019 and 2023. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for reality-based technologies and autonomous vehicles.

OLED displays are revolutionizing in-vehicle infotainment systems, providing advanced features such as navigation, multimedia systems, driver assistance, connected vehicle functions, and improved communication between drivers and vehicles. Luxury car manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are incorporating OLED panels into their vehicles due to the technology's high design flexibility and energy efficiency. Renowned car companies such as Volkswagen, Jaguar Land Rover, Toyota, GM, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi are already using OLED displays in their vehicles. Automotive display manufacturers are actively exploring the potential applications of OLED displays in the automotive sector, with commercial availability of such displays expected to grow. OLED displays offer enhanced brightness, vibrant colors, and interactive functionalities, making them ideal for GPS navigation, driver assistance displays, entertainment systems, and digital dashboards. The increasing adoption of OLED displays in the automotive sector is driving a transformation in in-vehicle visual displays, offering new standards for automotive display technology. In-vehicle information systems are becoming more prevalent in automobiles, and the demand for OLED displays is expected to rise during the forecast period, supporting the growth of the global organic light-emitting diode market.

Seoul Semiconductor Wins 'No Wire' LED Patent Lawsuit Across Europe

Seoul Semiconductor Co. has won a patent litigation case against Everlight, a Taiwanese LED company ranked 6th globally.

In August 2024, the Boards of Appeal of the European Patent Office (EPO) dismissed Everlight’s patent invalidation action against Seoul’s WICOP patent - No Wire LED technology. This decision has once again confirmed the strength of the WICOP patent portfolios registered across 18 European countries.

Since the ruling of the UK Patents Court in 2018, Seoul has won all patent lawsuits against Everlight and its distributor. These victories have spanned across five countries over the past seven years. Seoul has won lawsuits related to WICOP technology applied in lighting, automotive, and display applications, as well as those involving fundamental LED patents, thereby gaining recognition for the strength of Seoul’s patented technology.

The No Wire LED technology is an essential technology used not only in display products such as Micro LEDs, but also in new technologies like ADB headlamps and STOP lamps that communicate with and help protect drivers and pedestrians in the automotive sector.

LEDs opened a new era for optical semiconductors with the development of blue and white LEDs by Dr. Shuji Nakamura, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, contributing to longer lifespans and energy savings across various applications. However, many companies have focused solely on price competitiveness and performance in LED development, ignoring some of the potential health impacts of certain lighting.

Seoul has invested nearly $100 million annually, which is 10% of its sales, in research and development (R&D) over the past 20 years to create new lighting. This investment has led to the successful development of technologies such as SunLike, which produces natural light that can alleviate the health effects of artificial indoor lighting, and No Wire Technology WICOP. With an overwhelming 18,000 patents in the LED industry, Seoul’s unique value in advanced technology has been recognized once again in this litigation.

Truvami Unveils Flexible Smart Label Powered by Ambient Light at The Things Conference in Amsterdam

truvami, a Swiss-based startup supported by Swisscom Broadcast AG, is set to showcase its Smart Label technology at The Things Conference in Amsterdam on September 25–26. This innovative solution leverages LoRaWAN and organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology to deliver precise indoor and outdoor localization, transforming the logistics and asset tracking landscape.

truvami’s Smart Label is designed to revolutionize the logistics and asset tracking industry by offering a flexible, easy-to-mount solution that seamlessly integrates with existing supply chains. Unlike traditional labels that require manual scanning, truvami’s Smart Label autonomously transmits location data and other vital information—such as temperature and shock/movement—to a cloud application via wireless communication. This touchless process significantly enhances efficiency across supply chains, internal logistics, manufacturing processes, and asset management within buildings.

The Smart Label leverages organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology, developed by the French deep-tech company Dracula Technologies, to reduce operational expenses associated with battery charging or replacement. OPV cells printed onto a thin film harvest ambient light from their immediate environment and transform it into energy, eliminating the need for batteries and ensuring a sustainable and highly reliable long-lasting power source.

truvami’s labels are crafted from flexible, thin-film materials that resemble traditional paper, barcode, or RFID labels, making them easy to adopt without altering existing workflows. Moreover, the reusable nature of the Smart Labels reduces waste, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable labels currently prevalent in the industry.

The LoRaWAN-based tracker provides accurate localization both indoors and outdoors. Co-developed with the Swiss technology center CSEM, the technology incorporates a particle based RSSI algorithm that achieves location accuracy within several meters using LoRaWAN® beaconing. CSEM, renowned for its expertise in AI-based, robust, secure, and ultra-low-power connected platforms and vision sensing systems, has been instrumental in enhancing the Smart Label’s capabilities.

The collaboration between CSEM, Dracula Technologies and truvami underscores a commitment to innovative, sustainable solutions in the tech industry. By combining expertise in energy harvesting, wireless communication, and advanced localization algorithms, the Smart Label represents a significant advancement in asset tracking technology.

Mr. Boh will illuminate Baltimore again

Two years after the neon lights went out on the Natty Boh sign, this iconic Baltimore landmark is set to shine again—this time with LEDs.

On September 25, the National Bohemian beer company will relight Mr. Boh using new light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The sign, which stands 27 feet tall and 30 feet wide, has been a fixture atop the former National Brewing Co. building in Brewers Hill for 20 years.

The transition from neon to LEDs was driven by several factors, according to Nitasha Chopra, brand manager for National Bohemian.

Neon lights, popular throughout much of the 20th century, evoke a sense of nostalgia. However, while they add charm to bars, they are not practical for larger installations like a rooftop sign. “Repairing a neon sign of that size is extremely costly, and it doesn’t make sense for long-term investment and durability,” Chopra explained.

Neon lights also consume more electricity compared to LEDs, making LEDs a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, while the neon lights on the Natty Boh sign could only glow red, the new LEDs offer a wider range of creative possibilities.

Illinois to ban fluorescent lighting in 2026

Starting soon, Illinois residents will no longer be able to purchase fluorescent lights due to the Clean Lighting Act. This legislation aims to reduce pollution caused by the improper disposal of fluorescent lights, which release mercury and other toxins into the air.

The act amends the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and will partially take effect in 2026, banning the production and sale of screw-based or bayonet-based compact fluorescent lamps. By 2027, the ban will extend to pin-base compact fluorescent lights and fluorescent tubes.

Exceptions to the ban include fluorescent lighting used for medical purposes, academic research, and vehicle headlights manufactured before 2020.

Proponents of the ban highlight that three out of four fluorescent bulbs are disposed of incorrectly, leading to broken glass and the release of toxins. However, opponents argue that the law will incur long-term costs for businesses.

Illinois will become the 10th state to implement such a ban.

Commercial Airport Lighting Market to Reach $1.3 Billion, Globally, by 2033

The global commercial airport lighting market was valued at $ 0.7 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach $1.30 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% from 2024 to 2033.

The global commercial airport lighting market has experienced growth due to expansion & modernization projects, increase in air traffic, and airline industry growth. However, high initial investment, maintenance challenges, and limited airport expansion opportunities hinder market growth. Moreover, upcoming airport expansion projects and retrofitting existing infrastructure are expected to offer many opportunities for the expansion of the global commercial airport lighting market.

By type, the runway lighting systems segment to hold the highest market share in 2023 due to several compelling factors. Firstly, the burgeoning global air traffic demands enhanced airport infrastructure, with runways being a focal point for safety and efficiency. As airports expand and modernize to accommodate growing passenger numbers, there is a corresponding need to upgrade and install robust lighting systems to ensure safe aircraft operations during all hours and weather conditions. Moreover, regulatory mandates for improved safety standards further propel the demand for advanced runway lighting solutions. This convergence of factors creates a compelling growth trajectory for the runway lighting systems segment, promising lucrative opportunities for industry stakeholders.

By technology, the LED segment dominated the market in 2023 due to their unparalleled energy efficiency that presents a compelling cost-saving solution for airports seeking to reduce operational expenses and environmental impact. In addition, LED technology offers superior durability and longevity compared to traditional lighting sources, minimizing maintenance costs and downtime. Furthermore, the global push towards sustainable practices amplifies the demand for eco-friendly lighting solutions, positioning LEDs as the preferred choice. With ongoing technological advancements enhancing performance and versatility, the LED segment emerges as a beacon of innovation, poised to illuminate the future of airport lighting with unparalleled brilliance and efficiency.

By position, the inset airfield lights segment held the highest market share in 2023, driven by several pivotal factors. These lights, seamlessly integrated into runways and taxiways, offer enhanced visibility and safety for aircraft operations, a paramount concern for airport authorities globally. Their discreet design minimizes obstruction and maximizes aerodrome space utilization, addressing infrastructure challenges faced by many airports. Moreover, the increasing focus on precision and efficiency in airfield operations elevates the demand for precise lighting solutions like inset lights, ensuring accurate guidance for pilots during critical phases of flight. As airports prioritize safety and operational excellence, the inset airfield lights segment emerges as a cornerstone of their strategic investments.

Current Lighting is moving to Mayfield Heights from Beachwood

The city of Mayfield Heights is welcoming a new business that has its roots in an historic Greater Cleveland company.

City Council approved legislation that will allow for a Job Retention and Creation Grant to help bring to Mayfield Heights Current Lighting.

Current Lighting will be making its move from Science Park Drive in Beachwood, where it did business for about two years. Its lease ended in August at the Beachwood location.

Easy to install, linkable 45-inch LED Shop Lighting delivers 5000 lumens for work area lighting

 

EarthTronics, dedicated to developing innovative energy-saving lighting products that provide a positive economic and environmental impact, introduces its new 45-inch linkable Shop Light that is designed to offer highly efficient and effective task lighting to provide sufficient illumination for optimum productivity. With its linkable function, up to four fixtures can be connected to fit a multitude of spaces.

Developed for use in garages, basements, workbenches, utility rooms and general work areas, the 50-watt, white LED Shop Light fixture delivers 5000 lumens of 4000K natural white light with a high 80+ CRI for excellent visual acuity. It offers simple, easy installation with included hook and hanging chain hardware and a 5’ 2” power cord.

EarthTronics LED Shop Light is ETL, RoHS and FCC approved. Its housing is made of impact-resistant UV-stabile plastic for long-term performance. It will operate in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 122°F with a rated performance life of 50,000 hours. Operates on 120 Volt AC power.

PPDS installs LED wall in Oracle Red Bull Racing’s UK headquarters

PPDS has set a new record by installing a 46.25m wide Philips dvLED wall at the newly revamped MK-7 headquarters of Oracle Red Bull Racing in Milton Keynes, near London, UK. This installation is the largest Philips dvLED wall to date and is believed to be the largest indoor wall in Europe1.

The wall serves as the centerpiece of the 1,004sqm immersive MK-7 venue, located within the Red Bull Racing Technology Campus. Since 2018, this venue has been attracting visitors from around the globe, showcasing Oracle Red Bull Racing memorabilia, artifacts, and championship-winning cars1.

Oracle Red Bull Racing sought a fresh and dynamic look for the MK-7 event space, as the previous audiovisual setup was considered outdated and too static, not reflecting the brand’s values and the fast-paced nature of F1 racing1.

Measuring an impressive 46.25m x 2.75m, the Philips Public dvLED wall was designed to be the main feature of the auditorium and a backdrop for the expanding collection of F1 cars on display. This collection includes cars from the team’s F1 debut in 2005 to those driven by reigning three-time World Drivers’ Champion, Max Verstappen1.

PPDS, an official Oracle Red Bull Racing team supplier since 2022 and exclusive digital display supplier since 2023, collaborated with Netherlands-based AV integration specialist Ruitech Solutions for this project.

Nestle Portugal modernises HQ with Alfalite LED display

Nestlé Portugal has enhanced its Lisbon headquarters by installing an Alfalite LED screen in a multipurpose room. The installation, carried out by GTC – Sistemas Digitais de Video, Alfalite’s partner in Portugal, involved 72 UHD FinePix AlfaCOB 1.8 panels, creating a 7.2m by 2m display.

This LED solution is tailored for mission-critical environments such as control rooms, but its high image quality also makes it perfect for presentations, broadcast environments, and virtual sets requiring fine-pitch or microLED technology.

Santiago Caro, Alfalite’s international development manager, remarked, “This installation not only highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation, but also demonstrates the trust that large corporations like Nestlé place in our technological solutions.”

The AlfaCOB technology provides the LED panels with enhanced durability, boasting a lifespan of over 100,000 hours. The screens offer a 175° horizontal and vertical viewing angle, along with superior contrast, colorimetry, and image uniformity.

Additionally, the AlfaCOB panels feature electrostatic discharge protection exceeding 10kV, improved thermal dissipation, and increased resistance to impacts, liquids, chemicals, and fire. They also have anti-glare properties and can be installed with less than 0.5mm gaps between modules.

Commercial Lighting Market Outlook & Forecasts 2024-2029: Emergence of IoT and Product Innovations to Aid Replacements, Rise in Commercial Construction and Projects

The global commercial lighting market is expected to reach a value of $14.18 billion by 2029 from $10.01 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.98%

The global commercial lighting market is highly competitive, with many public and private companies. These vendors typically compete on key parameters such as product design, quality, reliability, support services, and price. Rapid technological advancements adversely impact vendors in the commercial lighting market as consumers expect continuous innovations and product upgrades. The present scenario drives vendors to alter and refine their unique value proposition to achieve a strong market presence.

Some major vendors dominating the global commercial lighting market include Signify NV (Philips Lighting), Acuity Brands Lighting, ABB Ltd, Honeywell LED Lighting, and Wipro Lighting Limited. These brands have many product offerings and a widespread presence in the global market. The major vendors are adopting innovative technologies to retain their strong commercial lighting market position.

APAC accounted for the highest share of the commercial lighting market, valued at over USD 3 billion in 2023. The region poses a higher market share due to the presence of countries like China, Japan, South Korea, India, and other emerging countries that are the manufacturing hubs for electronics. The demand for commercial lighting in APAC is driven by stringent regulations for emission standards, better fuel economy, and concerns over sustainability. Also, swift urbanization and infrastructure development in APAC cities create new commercial buildings, shopping centers, hotels, hospitals, and transportation hubs. Consequently, opportunities for commercial lighting applications abound as urban populations seek efficient and sustainable lighting solutions to bolster safety, productivity, and comfort in commercial environments.

Europe was the second-largest revenue contributor to the global commercial lighting market in 2023. Major factors spiking commercial lighting sales in Europe are rising average construction spending, increasing retail building construction projects, rising government spending on sustainable building development, industrial developments, rapid urbanization, changing climatic conditions, and growth in disposable income across European countries. Government regulations regarding eco-friendly refrigerants and energy-efficiency smart commercial lighting are expected to increase the demand for commercial lighting maintenance & service, particularly in Germany, the U.K., France, and Italy, due to the construction of buildings.

Use of Selected Modules and Devices in HCL Reached $2.407 Billion in 2023

According to a new report, the worldwide consumption value of specified modules/devices in solid-state lighting (SSL), which includes LEDs currently and eventually OLEDs, for the initial and primary purpose in Human Centric Lighting (HCL), reached an estimated $2.407 billion in 2023. The use of these devices/modules is forecasted to increase to nearly $6.75 billion in 2028.

The study forecasts the value will increase rapidly at an average annual growth rate of just-over 23% during the 1st-half of the forecast timeframe (2023-2028) and an impressive but slower-pace of just-over 19.2% during the 2nd-half (2028-2033), and eventually reaching nearly $16.25 billion in 2033.

Market forecast data in this study report refers to consumption (use) for a particular calendar year; therefore, this data is not cumulative data. Also, all values and prices in this report are at factory as-shipped levels, and are in current dollars, which includes the effect of a forecasted 5 percent annual inflation rate over the forecast period.

According to the study, the automatic assembly and test manufacturing process for selected solid-state lighting (SSL) products allow for mass-production capability. In addition, over the next few years, the average selling prices of the applicable products used in the specified Human Centric Lighting applications (HCL) will be driven lower, largely due production efficiencies, yield improvements (aided by quality controls), competition (both market competition and technology competition), marketing/sales distribution improvements, and other factors.

Smartkem Announces Joint Development Agreement with Chip Foundation to Co-Develop a New Generation of MicroLED-Based Backlight Technology for Liquid Crystal Displays

Smartkem has entered into a joint development agreement with Shanghai Chip Foundation Semiconductor Technology Co., Ltd, a manufacturer of semiconductor and integrated circuit devices, to co-develop a new generation of microLED-based backlight technology for Liquid Crystal Displays.

The joint development agreement provides that Smartkem will supply its proprietary organic dielectric single layer material, or Redistribution Layer (RDL), to Chip Foundation to combine with its own microLED devices, for the joint development of microLED based device structures. As part of the co-development project, Smartkem will develop insulator materials that can be used by Chip Foundation to combine its own proprietary microLED devices into a high performance miniLED package containing four microLEDs wired in series.

The resulting manufactured chip is expected to have the properties of high brightness coupled with high current efficiency, reducing power losses in driving backlights and improving uniformity of illumination.

Radiance Lightworks Commemorates '25 Years of Lighting Design Excellence'

Radiance Lightworks, a trailblazer in themed entertainment and architectural lighting design, proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary. Founded in 1999 by visionary entrepreneur Clay Alexander, Radiance has evolved from a modest startup into a global leader, employing over 75 talented designers and technicians dedicated to serving top-tier clients around the world.

Radiance's journey began with a transformative project for Estée Lauder at Universal Studios Hollywood in 1999. The team's innovative approach turned wilted floral arrangements into stunning centerpieces through creative lighting, establishing a lasting partnership with the film studio's theme parks division and solidifying Radiance's reputation for imaginative excellence.

In November 2000, Radiance made history with its groundbreaking lighting design for Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Times Square. Tasked with illuminating both the building's exterior and visible interior, Radiance introduced New York City's first permanent aerial searchlights—7,000-watt Xenon Space Cannons mounted on outrigger arms. These lights scanned the night sky over Manhattan, captivating visitors with ever-changing colors and patterns. Additionally, over one hundred 1,000-watt digitally controlled strobes were embedded in the main sign, creating a whimsical twinkling sequence synchronized to an ambient soundtrack. This high-profile project set new standards for nighttime light displays in urban environments and marked the beginning of Radiance's enduring success in this specialized field.

Over the past 25 years, Radiance has expanded its global footprint with large-scale projects across China, Japan, Europe, and beyond. Today, the company stands as one of the world's leading lighting design agencies, boasting an impressive roster of clients, including Universal Studios, Mattel, Disney, 20th Century Fox, and others.

Since 2006, Radiance has served as the exclusive lighting design firm for Universal Studios Hollywood's renowned Halloween Horror Nights, an event attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Radiance collaborates closely with Universal's creative team year-round to bring this spectacular event to life, which includes eight themed maze attractions, live shows, and immersive ambiance lighting parkwide. Radiance is also the exclusive lighting design partner for Dreamscape Immersive, beginning with the original pop-up location at Century City Mall in 2018, which evolved into a multifaceted permanent attraction featuring several interactive experiences. Since then, Radiance has partnered with Dreamscape to launch new locations worldwide, including in Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

UV Lamp Market to Grow by USD 5.36 Billion (2024-2028) Driven by Affordable UV LEDs

The UV Light market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  25.71%  during the forecast period. Low cost of ownership of UV LEDs is driving market growth, with a trend towards shift from mercury-based UV lamps to UV LEDs.

The ban on mercury-based UV lamps due to environmental concerns has led to a shift in the UV lamp market towards UV LEDs. Unlike mercury-based UV lamps, UV LEDs are a non-hazardous source of UV radiation, free of ozone and mercury. They offer energy-saving features and sustainability benefits, making them a preferred choice for customers. Environmental regulations worldwide are driving the adoption of UV LEDs, which provide improved flux density and stability, leading to significant environmental benefits. Energy-efficiency programs, such as ENERGY STAR certification, DesignLights Consortium, and Lighting Design Lab certification, promote the use of LED technology, including UV LEDs, to save energy and reduce carbon footprint. This trend is expected to continue, fueling the growth of the UV LED market during the forecast period.

The UV Lamps Market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing trends in longevity, safety, and efficiency. UV technology is increasingly being used in residential settings for air and water treatment, particularly in addressing waterborne infections and improving air quality. Mercury lamps remain popular for their effectiveness in UV-C disinfection, but energy consumption is a concern. Remote monitoring and automation are key trends, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of UV systems. In water treatment facilities, UV technology is used to disinfect water and wastewater, reducing energy consumption and addressing water scarcity. In air treatment, UV lamps are used in business air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. In the printing industry, UV curing offers speed and efficiency, reducing drying time and increasing productivity. The market is driven by growing population and urbanization, with applications ranging from domestic water filters to industrial UV mercury lamps for surface disinfection.

Signify supports Milton Keynes’ sustainable city initiative with energy-efficient LED public lighting

Signify is supporting Milton Keynes City Council in its long-term vision to create a world-leading sustainable city. Signify was selected to upgrade 18,000 existing streetlights to LED - enabling the city to introduce innovation in terms of performance, quality of light, and connectivity to its lighting assets – and contribute to their climate action goals.
 
The phased programme will be completed in 2024 and is expected save the council over 5 million kWh in energy usage, and £2 million in energy costs per year, following completion (based on average and estimated prices 2021-2025), as LED lighting uses up to 70% less energy when compared to the existing HID lighting. The reduction in ongoing energy costs is expected to pay for the project in full within 8 years. The LED upgrade will also increase visibility for motorists and pedestrians, and improve the quality of security camera footage, helping to improve the feeling of safety and deter criminal activity.
 
In 2019, Milton Keynes City Council committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2030, and carbon negative by 2050 - steps of which are laid out in their Sustainability Strategy 2019-2050. They had already kicked off some climate action initiatives prior to this. In 2014, Milton Keynes City Council started delivery of the programme to modernise and upgrade its public lighting stock to low-energy LED; to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, extend the life of its assets, and reduce maintenance and associated costs. Then in 2022, due to the 88% increase in energy prices the council came under further revenue pressure for 2023/24, which led them to expand and accelerate the lighting upgrade programme to enable them to operate in the most cost-efficient manner.
 
Signify was selected as the lighting partner of choice based on several parameters. The technical specification of the proposed lighting solutions, the projected operational and energy cost savings, as well as carbon emission reductions. In addition, Signify’s sustainability credentials as a responsible supplier played a large part.
 
Throughout February and March this year, and forming the main part of the roll-out of the project, a combination of ~18,000 Philips LumiStreet Gen2 and LumiStreet ECO LED lanterns were installed along roads and footpaths across the city - replacing the old, energy inefficient HID lanterns. The Philips LumiStreet ECO was designed to specifically meet the needs of the UK market, and this project sees the first large roll-out across a city. In addition, in December 2023, 1,800 Philips TownTune urban decorative LED luminaires were installed, to improve the lighting across car parks, pedestrian walkways, and cycle paths.

Photo Diamond Geezer (cc)
 

Mojo Vision and CY Vision will create Micro-LED heads-up displays for cars

Mojo Vision, known for its tiny micro-LED screens, has teamed up with CY Vision to develop cutting-edge heads-up displays (HUDs) for cars. These new HUDs will use micro-LED technology and augmented reality (AR) to enhance the driving experience.

By integrating AI and 3D imaging, the displays will offer drivers an immersive and personalized experience, providing essential information directly in their line of sight to improve safety.

Both automakers and consumers stand to gain from these AR HUDs. For consumers, the advanced driving experience could be a significant factor in their car-buying decisions. By displaying information directly in the driver’s field of view, these HUDs aim to reduce distractions, addressing a major cause of automotive accidents, which account for an estimated 25% of such incidents.

30th Anniversary of the High Brightness Blue LED

On November 30, 1993, Nikkei Business Daily headlined the front page of its popular newspaper in Japan – "Blue LED, 100 times brighter." The company that launched such a surprising product is "Nichia Chemical Industries Ltd." (Currently, Nichia Corporation), located in Tokushima, Japan.

At the time, Nichia was positioned as Japan's largest manufacturer of phosphors, primarily used in fluorescent lamps and CRT televisions. Although Nichia was well-known in the industry, the general public was not familiar with the company. In the world of LEDs at the time, where red, orange, yellowish green, and invisible infrared light were the most available colors, Nichia was only known as a company who manufactures and sells some of the materials. Therefore, Nichia's announcement of the high brightness blue LED was a great surprise. A company not deeply involved with LEDs was the one to succeed in developing the world's first high brightness blue LED, once believed to be impossible to achieve within the 20th century and also has started the volume production / sales.

Fast forward to 2023, Nichia marks its 30th anniversary since the launch of the high brightness blue LED. High brightness blue LEDs are still used today in a wide variety of applications. In fact, this technology continues to contribute to Nichia's development of derivative technologies. Pure Green LEDs were developed with this blue LED technology and White LEDs were realized in combination with phosphors which Nichia continues to cultivate, develop and advance in a manner no other company can imitate.

In addition, Nichia's innovation has expanded applications from light sources for large video displays, traffic signals, and color scanners to light sources for automobile interiors and exteriors, backlight light sources for color LCDs, and light sources for general lighting.

Examples of the blue LED technology advancement include mini LEDs for LCD backlights, which provide high-contrast images that cannot be achieved with ordinary white LEDs, or matrix-type high and low-beam headlights, which provide a safer driving environment without causing discomfort to oncoming traffic or pedestrians.

As Nichia celebrates the 30th anniversary of the launch of high brightness blue LED, Nichia would like to reminisce and share the history with stories from that time. Nichia will post monthly articles through November, the month the first newspaper announcements were made in 1993.

New LED lighting system delivered by Cecilia Patron in the South of Merida

The Municipal President of Mérida, Cecilia Patrón Laviada, inaugurated the new lighting system along Xmatkuil Road and 50th Avenue leading to the Periférico, featuring over 200 LED lamps.

Simultaneously, 1,114 sodium vapor lights are being replaced in the Emiliano Zapata Sur and San Antonio Xluch neighborhoods, making them the first areas to have fully LED lighting.

In Xmatkuil, Cecilia Patrón activated the switch that illuminated 50th Street South from Xmatkuil to the Periférico with LED lamps.

“These lights not only provide a brighter and more effective illumination compared to the previous yellow lights, but they also offer significant energy savings and are environmentally friendly,” the mayor stated.

Joined by community members, she demonstrated the new system, which provides better lighting, energy efficiency, and environmental benefits, and will be extended to the entire city in the coming months.

JBD Showcases Groundbreaking Hummingbird Series Projector

At CIOE 2024 in Shenzhen, JBD captured attention with its latest innovations, including the high-brightness Hummingbird I optical module and the ultra-compact Hummingbird Mini II monochrome projector. These products, along with advanced AR smart glasses, highlight JBD's leadership in MicroLED technology and its applications in AR.

The Hummingbird I optical module is a transformative innovation in the AR industry, offering unprecedented in-eye brightness of over 6000 nits—far exceeding the typical range of 1000-2000 nits seen in waveguide AR glasses. This significant increase in brightness ensures clear and vivid visuals, even in challenging lighting conditions.  In addition to higher brightness, the module benefits from JBD's proprietary ARTCs solution, which optimizes image quality by effectively eliminating graininess and color distortion.  The result is a sharper, more immersive AR experience that provides consistent performance in both indoor and outdoor environments.

This leap in performance is backed by JBD's advancements in MicroLED technology, doubling the efficiency of the Hummingbird I color engine to deliver up to 6 lumens of luminous flux with a typical power consumption of just 150mW. This balance of high performance and low power consumption not only enhances the AR experience but also extends battery life, making the technology more practical for all-day use.

The Hummingbird Mini II monochrome projector sets a new standard for lightweight AR design. Introduced earlier this year and now in mass production, the Mini II is about the size of a red bean and weighs only 0.3 grams, making it an ideal solution for slim, unobtrusive smart glasses. Despite its small size, it delivers 8 lumens of luminous flux, achieving over 8000 nits of brightness when paired with a waveguide. Its low power consumption of just 60mW ensures long battery life, making it perfect for all-day use.

As an upgrade from the original Hummingbird Mini, the Mini II is 50% smaller and lighter, with an 80% increase in brightness and a 25% reduction in power consumption. Its enhanced 8-bit color depth provides a smoother, more detailed display, making it a versatile tool for the next generation of AR devices.

Sony Electronics Introduces Two New 4K HDR Laser BRAVIA Projectors with XR Processor

 

Sony Electronics announced two new native 4K laser home cinema projectors, the BRAVIA Projector 8 and BRAVIA Projector 9. Both are the first projectors to include the XR Processing technology, Sony's cutting-edge BRAVIA TV video processing, enabling powerful picture features made for the movie buffs, sports fans, and avid gamers.

The new projectors are the first to join Sony's comprehensive BRAVIA home cinema line-up, made available alongside the BRAVIA TVs and BRAVIA Theatre home audio products. BRAVIA is designed to enhance the authenticity of cinematic content, delivering impressive picture and sound at home as the filmmakers intended. These new projectors offer exceptional image clarity, color, and contrast as well as professional-grade visual experiences inside the home.

The BRAVIA Projector 8 and BRAVIA Projector 9 4K HDR laser projectors are the first to utilize the XR Processor for Projector in Sony's home cinema projector line-up which includes XR Dynamic Tone Mapping, XR Deep Black, XR TRILUMINOS PRO and XR Clear Image to deliver a professional-grade cinematic experience. XR Dynamic Tone Mapping analyzes peak brightness frame by frame, and delivers optimal tone mapping, showcasing images with rich gradation, high brightness, and authentic colors. In addition, XR Deep Black controls powerful laser dimming in dark scenes, bringing deeper blacks while maintaining tone and color expression. The XR TRILUMINOS PRO feature brings over a billion colors to life and is redefined by XR Clear Image technology, upscaling all imagery to 4K quality1 by using a vast database to recreate lost texture and detail, all while minimizing noise.

These projectors are equipped with Sony's unique Laser light source, offering enhanced brightness in Sony's award-winning compact lightweight designs. There are up to 3,400 lumens from the BRAVIA Projector 9 and up to 2,700 lumens from the BRAVIA Projector 82. For gamers, the 4K 120fps at a 12ms input lag plus Auto Low Latency Mode via 2x HDMI 2.1 compatible inputs provides the necessary smooth and clear movement for responsive and immersive gameplay. The BRAVIA Projector 9 is also equipped with Live Color Enhancer to provide more vivid and vibrant images even in brighter environments.

Fluence LED Fixtures Power Six Facilities, 120,000 Square Feet of Canopy for Holistic Industries

Fluence, a global provider of energy-efficient LED lighting solutions for commercial cannabis production, announced its multiyear collaboration with Holistic Industries, one of the largest private multistate cannabis operators, has surpassed 120,000 square feet of canopy under Fluence lights.

The companies’ long-term collaboration was born out of a successful LED trial in 2018 at Holistic’s Pennsylvania cultivation facility. When compared to Holistic’s legacy high-pressure sodium fixtures, Fluence’s VYPR top lights decreased overall energy consumption at the same light intensity, increased biomass and maximized the phenotypic expression of the cultivar’s genetics. Today, the company grows completely under Fluence’s VYPR lights.

In 2021, Holistic expanded operations into Michigan, now the No. 1 cannabis market in the U.S. Holistic’s data-driven approach to plant quality has cemented its position as one of the top flower producers in the state.

Acer Launches New Additions to Vero Line with Eco-friendly LED Projectors

Acer unveiled two new projectors in its eco-friendly Vero product line; the Acer Vero PD2528ic and the Acer Vero PD2328. Both projectors are designed to equip businesses and consumers with high-performance, energy-efficient technology, making these excellent choices for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint.

The latest Gen 4 LED light source enhances the brightness of the new Acer PD2 Series projectors by up to 18.5% compared to the previous generation[1], allowing for high-light output of up to 3,700 ANSI lumens[3] and making them great options for home cinema or meeting room setups. These deliver excellent color performance with support for 120% of the REC 709 color space and offer 1.5 times wider coverage compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. Plus, their 0.65-inch DMD chip power their high and dynamic contrast ratios of 50,000:1 for vibrant visuals and image quality, even when showing low-light frames.

The Acer Vero PD2328 is available with a WXGA (1280x800) resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 3,700 lumens of brightness, while the Acer Vero PD2528ic features an FHD (1920x1080) resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, and 3,200 ANSI lumens. Acer LumiSense technology helps bring content to life, even in dark settings. Color-boosting technologies such as Acer ColorPurity+, ColorBoostLED, and ColorSafe II deliver consistent, natural, and vivid colors for more expressive displays, plus LED Color Saturation and help reproduce true-to-life color balance. Acer's BluelightShield also mitigates the negative effects of potential blue light exposure and helps protect the eyes from damage or straining.

These projectors feature Acer EcoProjection technology, which ultimately helps save on power consumption and replacement costs. The devices automatically enter Eco mode and dim the light source to 60% power when no input signal is detected and perform a safety shutdown after a certain period of inactivity. These projectors are lamp and mercury-free, helping extend their lifespan to up to 30,000 hours and improve energy efficiency by up to 42% compared to lamp-based models. They also incorporate 50% PCR plastic on the chassis and 100% recyclable packaging.

The PD2 Series Vero projectors are lightweight and compact, reflecting their light impact on the environment. Weighing just 2.6 kg and 11.8 inches in width, these can easily fit into any space or be mounted on any docking station at home or at work.

The Vero PD258ic is shipped with wireless projection and screen mirroring[4,5] capabilities with an Acer wireless dongle built in. Users can enjoy quick and seamless screen mirroring from a smartphone or PC without the need to install additional apps.

Bulb Market to Reach $104.7 Billion, Globally, by 2034

According to a new report, the bulb market was valued at $63.1 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $104.7 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2034.

The shift toward LED technology has been a major driver, with LEDs offering superior energy efficiency, extended operational lifespan, and reduced heat emissions compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This transition is further accelerated by regulatory measures promoting energy-saving products, such as bans on inefficient incandescent bulbs and incentives for adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions. In addition, the rise in environmental awareness among consumers has increased demand for eco-friendly lighting options, strengthening the market for bulbs with lower carbon footprints. Moreover, urbanization and infrastructure development in the emerging nations have also played a significant role, as expanding residential and commercial construction projects require advanced lighting solutions driving the bulb market demand. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology into lighting systems, which allowed for greater control and automation, has further fueled market growth by appealing to tech-savvy consumers seeking convenience and enhanced functionality in their lighting choices.

Based on the product type, the compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) segment held the highest market share in 2023 owing to their balance of cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. CFLs offer significant energy savings compared to incandescent bulbs, using up to 75% less energy while providing a similar light output. They also have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements. In addition, CFLs are more affordable than LEDs, which has thus made them a convenient option for budget-conscious consumers. Although LEDs are growing in popularity, CFLs continue to be a practical choice for many households and businesses owing to their proven efficiency, lower upfront costs, and widespread availability.

Based on technology, the non-smart bulbs segment held the highest market share in 2023. The share of non-smart bulbs is higher in the global bulb market owing to their affordability and widespread familiarity. Non-smart bulbs, including traditional incandescent, halogen, and basic fluorescent lamps, typically have lower upfront costs compared to smart bulbs. Non-smart bulbs offer a simple, reliable lighting solution without the added complexity or expense of smart technology. Many consumers and businesses prioritize cost-effectiveness and ease of use, which in turn leads to sustained demand for these traditional bulbs. In addition, non-smart bulbs are widely available and compatible with existing fixtures, which has made them a convenient choice for many applications. Despite the growing interest in smart lighting, non-smart bulbs continue to dominate owing to their established market presence and lower price points.

Portable Projector Market worth $2.1 billion in 2029

The global portable projector market size is projected to reach USD 2.1 billion in 2029 from USD 1.7 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 4.4% according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™. Key factors propelling the market growth include the rapid technological advancements and increased demand in educational and business sectors. Moreover, the increase in demand in entertainment sector mainly due to the expansion of the gaming industry and consumer electronics are expected to create significant opportunities for the portable projector market.

DLP Technology is poised to experience the highest growth rate (CAGR) in portable projector market. DLP technology offers high contrast ratio, compact size and portability, superior color accuracy and durability compared with other technologies. DLP technology enables portable projectors to achieve high brightness. This makes DLP portable projectors suitable for a wide range of applications, from business presentations, home entertainment, healthcare and medical & education. The combination of these factors has helped to boost the popularity of DLP projectors in the portable projector market, allowing them to grow at a higher CAGR.

3D is expected to hold a significant growth rate during the forecast period. This growth is due to their ability to create immersive and engaging viewing experiences, advancements in 3D technology and increasing availability of 3D content. The increasing adoption of 3D projection in presentations, gaming and education further boosts the growth of the market. These factors combined are contributing to the rising popularity of 3D portable projectors, giving them greater market potential in the future.

In projected image size <50 inches is anticipated to hold a significant market share during the forecast period. These small projectors are ideal for personal use, including home entertainment, gaming and presentations. Its portability makes it easy for users to install it in various environments including small rooms, outdoor settings, and during travel. As consumers demand simpler and more convenient entertainment solutions, the demand for portable projectors with an image size under 50 inches will grow, further solidifying their position in the market.

Portable projectors with lumen range of 500-3000 lm are expected to hold a significant market share during the forecast period. This range provides a balance between brightness and portability, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications like home entertainment, business presentations, classrooms, gaming, small conference rooms and outdoor viewing.

Masco Corporation Enters Into a Definitive Agreement to Sell Kichler Lighting

Masco Corporation has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Kichler Lighting business to an affiliate of Kingswood Capital Management for a purchase price of approximately $125 million, subject to customary adjustments.

Headquartered in Solon, Ohio, Kichler Lighting is a provider of decorative residential and light commercial lighting products, ceiling fans and LED lighting systems across both consumer and professional distribution channels. Kingswood Capital Management, a private investment firm based in Los Angeles, California, is the owner of Progress Lighting, also a provider of residential and light commercial decorative lighting solutions.

The transaction is expected to be completed prior to the end of the year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Mouser Electronics' New Expansion Honored by IBCon as Most Intelligent DC-Powered Building and Largest Installation of PoE Lighting

Mouser Electronics announces that the new expansion to its Global Distribution Center in Mansfield, Texas, has received the IBCon 2024 Digie Award for the Most Intelligent DC-Powered Building. The new 416,000-square-foot, three-story building has been recognized as a pioneer in the field of Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, as not only the largest installation of this system but also the first to intermingle fixtures on the system for a large commercial scale.

As an ISO 14001:2015 certified company for its environmental management system, Mouser adheres to high environmental standards and sustainability efforts. Shopp said the company's dedication to environmental responsibility and adoption of innovative technologies played a role in the decision to incorporate PoE lighting, a technology for delivering DC power to devices over copper Ethernet cabling without the need for separate power supplies or outlets.

Mouser, which is celebrating 60 years, has recently expanded its Global Distribution Center to meet the needs of its flourishing business well into the next decade. The new addition boasts more than one thousand PoE lighting fixtures, including high-bay lighting throughout the main facility and a combination of recessed downlights and linear lighting. Occupancy sensors in each fixture optimize energy use, while data-driven centralized control and management allow for adjusting lights and tracking energy consumption. The reduced material, labor, and maintenance associated with PoE lighting further lowers Mouser's energy usage while cutting operational costs.

Infant Phototherapy Device Market size is expected to be about US$ 135.97 Million by 2032

Infant Phototherapy Device Market size is expected to be about US$ 135.97 Million by 2032 compared to US$ 96.44 Million in 2023. The publisher states that Infant Phototherapy Devices Industry to grow with a CAGR of 3.89% from 2024 to 2032.

A distinctive feature of the newborn stage is the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. The hospitalization of their infant or child, however, is one of the most painful events in a parent's life and can have a significant impact on their life. Hospitalization for phototherapy within the first few days of life might lead to issues such as nosocomial infections.

It is possible to recommend home phototherapy as a risk-free treatment option for patients with no side effects. As a result, it is boosting the global infant phototherapy device market. It is a more reasonable choice as well. The NIH stated that the average cost reductions per patient were €819 (95% confidence interval €613-1025) or 71% when comparing the cost per patient of home phototherapy to the hospital alternative, which was €1156.

The market for infant phototherapy is expanding as a result of novel ways to treat neonatal hyperbilirubinemia that have been made possible by technological advancements in phototherapy. A noteworthy research area is LED phototherapy, which has been the focus of studies assessing its effectiveness in treating unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. Home phototherapy (HPT) devices at a low cost have been created to increase accessibility, especially in developing nations. A couple of examples include the Brilliance jaundice treatment device and the Iranian HPT system, which are intended to provide affordable options for phototherapy in homes.

These devices are designed to overcome gaps in healthcare access, especially in areas where implementing standard hospital-based phototherapy may be difficult. Another interesting advancement is the use of LED panels into a phototherapy system. Wearable phototherapy has being investigated by researchers as a cutting-edge strategy for driving innovation. Neonatal care is undergoing revolutionary changes through the adoption of varied methodologies, with the goal of improving treatment accessibility, efficacy, and patient experience.

The United States might have a considerable share in the global infant phototherapy device market. This is due to the prevalence of neonatal jaundice. A JAMA Network report states that between 60% and 70% of the 4 million babies born in the United States each year have clinical jaundice. The consumer awareness initiatives further propel the worldwide infant phototherapy device industry. For example, in 2023, the International Society for Neonatal Screening (ISNS) and the Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) joined forces to showcase global advancements and possibilities in neonatal screening.

The high rate of diagnosis and treatment and technological advancements further drive the infant phototherapy device market. For example, the FDA-approved "SkyLife" device, which is now under examination, is a mattress that uses blue LEDs as its light source, just like the existing blue LED panel devices. Because it produces safer, non-ultraviolet light, this gadget is thought to prevent many of the ill effects associated with using fluorescent tube lights. It is also more efficient than using mattresses or blankets, which rely on fluorescent tubes or blue halogen bulbs for lighting. The light is emitted under the infant.

Researchers develop ultra-high efficiency perovskite LEDs by strengthening lattice

A research team has developed ultra-high efficiency perovskite nanocrystal light-emitting diodes (LEDs) by strengthening the perovskite lattice and suppressing the material's inherent low-frequency dynamics.

The research findings were published in the journal Nature Communications on July 24. The team was led by Professor Tae-Woo Lee from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Seoul National University, in collaboration with Professor Andrew M. Rappe of the University of Pennsylvania,

Perovskite is a semiconductor material composed of cube-shaped nanocrystals consisting of organic cations, metal cations, and halogen elements. Perovskite light emitters have garnered attention as promising next-generation emitters due to their excellent color purity, tunability, and cost-effectiveness.

However, prior to 2014, perovskites were primarily used in solar cells, as their luminescence was not bright enough to be visible at room temperature. Despite this limitation, Professor Lee recognized the potential of perovskite as a next-generation emitter early on and secured a portfolio of fundamental patents for perovskite light-emitting materials in 2014.

Additionally, in 2015, his team published the first research paper demonstrating the enhancement of the efficiency in perovskite LED from a mere 0.1% to 8.53%, comparable to the level of phosphorescent OLEDs. This achievement has inspired researchers worldwide to conduct intensive and in-depth research on improving the efficiency of perovskite emitters.

Professor Lee's team further advanced perovskite self-emissive devices in 2022, achieving an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 28.9% (nearly theoretically achievable maximum), peak brightness of 470,000 nits, and an operational lifetime of up to 30,000 hours. Moving towards commercialization, Professor Lee's startup company, SN Display Co. Ltd., showcased TV and tablet display prototypes at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in 2022 and 2023, making a great appeal to industry insiders.

However, the research team realized the need to address a key challenge: the reduction in luminescence efficiency due to the inherent ionic nature of the perovskite. Unlike traditional inorganic semiconductors, perovskite materials are composed of weak ionic bonds, and large-amplitude displacement of the atoms in their crystal lattices can cause dynamic disorder. This dynamic disorder interferes with the radiative recombination process in perovskite materials, leading to exciton dissociation and reduced luminescence efficiency.

Signify upgrades Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box with HDMI 2.1

Smart home leader Signify has unveiled the new Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K, along with the Ensis pendant light and several software updates. This long-awaited upgrade to the Hue sync box now supports HDMI 2.1, enabling resolutions up to 8K and frame rates up to 120Hz.

This enhancement ensures full compatibility with the PS5 and Xbox One, offering an improved gaming experience.

The new HDMI sync box retains its previous design but now supports HDMI 2.1, 8K, and 120Hz. It accepts inputs from devices like Apple TV and gaming consoles, then connects to your TV, allowing your selected lights to mirror the on-screen content.

Signify offers various lights compatible with the sync box, including a light strip for the back of the TV, Play bars around it, and stand lights for the room’s corners.

Yaber Launches New K3 Series Premier Home Theatre Projector at IFA Berlin 2024

Yaber announces the launch of the K3 series, including the K3 and K3 Pro (with subwoofer) models. This flagship projector series, an upgrade to the critically acclaimed projector K2s, features two new proprietary technologies: Yaber's CoolSwiftTM cooling technology for stable, extended use and NovaGlow optical technology for enhanced brightness and image quality.

The all-in-one K3 series boasts Yaber's brightest displays yet, with dual 15W JBL stereo speakers and Dolby Audio for exceptional sound. Building on the success of the K2s, Yaber has refined its technology to elevate home entertainment. "The K3 series reflects our dedication towards refining audiovisual technology and capabilities," said Marshall Mao, General Manager of Yaber. "We've enhanced our flagship lineup to push the boundaries of what's possible for in-home entertainment experiences."    

The K3 series offers a cinematic experience and sets a new standard for home entertainment with 1080p FHD resolution and 1,600 ANSI lumens brightness, projecting from 40 to 200 inches even in bright rooms. Yaber's exclusive NovaGlowTM optical technology ensures sharp, vivid true-to-life clear images. The built-in audio system with dual 15W JBL speakers and Dolby Audio creates an immersive theatre-like soundscape, with the K3 Pro featuring a subwoofer for richer bass.

Designed for ease of use, the K3 series includes a built-in TV dongle with access to over 7,000 apps including Netflix, Disney+ and YouTube. The K3 can also be controlled from a distance via voice commands, and NFC Tap allows easy content transfer from Apple and Android phones. The blue light-filtering coating reduces eye strain, and the all-glass lens minimizes focus drift, preventing projection deterioration.

The K3 model is priced at $499 in the USA and €599 in Europe. The K3 Pro (with subwoofer) is priced at $599 in the USA and €649 in Europe, and can be purchased on Yaber's official website.