The problem with lenses as they have existed for over a hundred years is that they are curved pieces of glass. This problem was less pronounced in the past, but as technology has advanced, so has miniaturization of components.
This has been difficult for the curved lenses used in camera systems, and so it's exciting to hear of the breakthrough in a full-spectrum metalens
Tech News World has a breakdown of the basic idea, and some comments from Federico Capasso, one of the authors of the paper:
"With a metalens, we can have the same foundry that makes the sensor chip make the metalenses for the camera module," Capasso said. "That's why so many companies are excited about this. There is a chance to disrupt the business model anywhere cameras are used."
So cheaper and smaller cameras? Sounds good. Also notes on how it will improve VR and AR systems.
However, this initial work is a proof of concept, and so it will take some time to scale up.
More description of the breakthrough in this video:
Like articles like this and what to see more? Through me a follow and a comment! Thanks!