US-based II-VI is expected to enter the supply chain for Apple's next-generation iPhones by fabricating VCSEL chips for time-of-flight (ToF) LiDAR scanners, according to industry sources.
ToF-based LiDAR scanners reportedly will be equipped in some of Apple's next-generation iPhones for instant immersive AR experiences, said the sources, adding that II-VI will be able to enter the supply chain for the next-generation iPhones by providing VCSEL chips. II-VI will use its own epi wafers to produce VCSEL chips for ToF LiDAR scanners that will be found in the 2021 series of iPhones, the sources continued.
Lumentum will still be the main VCSEL supplier for ToF LiDAR scanners used in Apple's iPhones next year, with IQE, Win Semiconductors and its other contract chipmakers to remain engaged in the supply chain for the next-generation iPhones, the sources indicated.
Among Apple's iPhone 12 models, only the Pro series possesses LiDAR scanners.
Article translated by Jessie Shen
