As the global semiconductor industry eyes the rise of 12-inch silicon carbide (SiC) wafers as potential game-changers in advanced packaging, a surprising development is reshaping the conversation. A Chinese startup has reportedly discovered a high-value application for large-diameter SiC substrates—one that directly aligns with the supply chain of tech giant Meta's AI-powered smart glasses.

If China is the primary battleground for smart glasses, the China International Optoelectronic Exposition (CIOE) is the front line. Leading manufacturers such as GoerTek, Sunny Optical, and Luxshare Precision were joined by a growing number of mid- and low-tier competitors, signaling a rapidly intensifying race in both hardware and optics, especially in the critical field of optical waveguide technology.