Singapore MetaOptics seeks to raise funds for the development of superlenses

MetaOptics, a 2021 startup based in Singapore with expertise in metalenses and related optical components, is aiming to raise net proceeds of S$4 million (approximately US$3.1 million) by listing on the local “Catalist” stock exchange.

Targeting emerging applications in smart phones, contactless 3D biometrics modules, tiny pocket projectors, lidar sensors, and augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) devices, the company says it will use the proceeds to expand its product range and fabrication capacities.

Single-layer glass metalens

That is set to include a new pulsed laser system to speed the production of customized molds, and to advance the development of novel tunable metalenses offering more extensive optical functionality.

“[MetaOptics] has set itself apart from its competitors, by utilising the semiconductor process and direct laser writing technologies, to pioneer glass-based color metalenses and support mass production possibilities,” announced the firm in a release detailing the planned listing.

Purchase orders
Company CEO Mark Thng commented: "Our upcoming listing on SGX marks a transformative milestone for MetaOptics, further solidifying our foundation to advance research and development, expand global footprint, and accelerate growth.

“Our breakthrough meta-optics solutions, including new forms such as [the] rectangular metalens and miniaturised color camera, are already reshaping how smart devices capture, sense, and interpret the world.

“With secured purchase orders and increasing design wins, we believe we are well-placed to capture the rapidly expanding market in smart devices, IoT, and next-generation optical systems.”

The Singapore firm, which is located at the city-state’s JTC Launchpad startup incubator, claims to be the first pure-play metalens company to seek a public listing.

It will face competition from the likes of Silicon Valley’s Imagia, and the Harvard University spin-out MetaLenz, which recently announced a new license agreement with the major chip maker STMicroelectronics.

MetaOptics believes that rapid growth in applications for the novel components deployed inside laptops, smartphones, AR/VR devices, and autonomous vehicles will create strong demand for its lightweight, compact, and high-performance optical technology.

The placement of shares is scheduled for September 9, and should see 30 million sold at S$0.20 each.

Source: optics.org