3M scientists developed an ultra-compact, LED-illuminated projection engine designed for integration into virtually any personal electronic device. Roughly the size of a wireless earpiece and less than half an inch thick, the 3M mobile projection engine delivers brilliant VGA resolution images and is available today.

When deployed in a host platform, such as a mobile phone, 3M's technology can project a 40-inch or larger image with no-speckle and a high-fill factor that ensures superior image quality. Each engine uses an advanced liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) electronic imager in conjunction with proprietary 3M optics technology.

With the expansion of digital media now accessible by mobile devices, consumers need the convenience of larger displays. "3M mobile projection engines achieve the size, efficiency, image quality and affordability needed for consumer adoption of this promising new product category," said Mike Kelly, executive vice president, 3M Display and Graphics Business. "This development continues 3M's long history as a global leader in advanced projection display technology. What is really exciting is that this technology is available now."

3M is partnering with leading consumer electronics companies that plan to launch products in early 2008.