Mobile device companies use structured light (SL) high resolution 3D sensing technology to enhance security by unlocking the phone when the owner’s face is recognized. SL is also used to enhance the functionality of the selfie camera. SL systems project a pattern of infrared light onto the user’s face and measure distortion in the return signal to obtain a 3D map of the face and confirm the user’s identity. Unfortunately, the face identification system does not always recognize the user’s face, especially if the user is in sunlight or is further from the phone. Meta-optics will play a key role in making face identification more robust.

SL projectors use light from VCSEL arrays to create a complex pattern of dots on its target. Typically, these dot patterns are projected by diffractive optics, however, it may require several lenses in addition to the diffractive. Meta-optics, with as few as a single element, can project dot patterns with superior performance to a diffractive optic. The advantages include higher efficiency, wider field of view, more dots, and better contrast. Metalenz technical benefits result in a face identification that works better, particularly when the person is further away from the phone or in sunlight.