Impact Story #13
Solar Cells in the Display
Today’s smartwatches can convert light into electricity. A technology developed at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin turns displays into an additional energy source.
Smartwatches are part of daily life for millions of people, but their battery life remains limited. Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) have developed a solution that integrates transparent thin-film solar cells directly into displays.
A particular challenge is ensuring that the solar cells remain translucent while keeping the display easy to read. At HZB, researchers developed suitable thin-film materials and structuring techniques that harness sunlight and ambient light without significantly impairing the screen’s appearance.
Together with industry partners, researchers further developed the technology into market-ready products. Garmin successfully integrated the solution into production models of sports and outdoor smartwatches. The solar cells provide additional energy and extend battery life, particularly during outdoor use. Although they do not replace the battery, they make a noticeable contribution to the power supply.
The impact is immediate: devices require less frequent charging, giving users greater independence. At the same time, the project demonstrates how materials research translates from the laboratory into industrial applications.
Transparent photovoltaics also open up a wide range of additional applications, from mobile devices to smart surfaces.
Image: Garmin
