- Huawei demonstrated the technology at the recent Beijing Auto Show
- The XPixel platform is said to be the first automotive headlight system that projects in full color
- Outdoor cinema and mobile gaming could soon be a reality
Huawei is about to launch the world’s first automotive headlight system capable of full-color projection.
Although the Chinese technology company has been marketing its high-resolution, pixel-controlled XPixel monochrome LED headlight platform for many years, it has now developed the technology to add a full RGB output that is capable of projecting a 100-inch image onto any nearby wall or surface.
During demonstrations at the recent Beijing Auto Show, New Atlas reports that Huawei showed off the ability to stream “outdoor” movies on a wall, interactive game graphics on the ground, and even turn-by-turn navigation signs thrown onto the road surface.
While it may seem like a gimmick, Huawei is keen to point out that the headlights can also change color temperature in rain or fog to improve light penetration and visibility, as well as intelligently adapt to both the curvature of the road and avoid blinding oncoming drivers.
Nothing has been said about pricing, but Huawei says a production version of the XPixel lighting system will debut in an updated version of the Aito M9 SUV, which has been co-developed with the technology company and is predominantly sold through Huawei’s HIMA (Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance) across China.
Analysis: Lighting the way to legal issues
Huawei’s XPixel demonstration is deeply impressive, but it’s also likely to present a difficult case for local legislation.
Smart laser headlights and matrix LEDs have faced tough restrictions in the US, while regulators in Europe and the UK are currently examining advanced headlight technology, assessing whether it could cause distractions and “blinding” LED reflections.
China tends to have a much more fluid approach to legislating these sorts of things, and as a result will likely be the first to see lighthouses that can also function as a mobile movie theater.
But there are also big questions about the price and how much it would cost to repair a headlight unit if it is damaged or replace it if it were attacked and stolen by thieves, an issue that has been causing distress to luxury vehicle owners in London and other major cities.
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