We’ve reached a point with device displays where the retina is physically incapable of distinguishing between pixels, but display manufacturers keep pushing higher resolutions. “To what end?” we might ask. Well, I have a few thoughts.

True 3D Displays

I’m not talking about the stereo-image garbage that has been pushed at us for the last decide by movie theaters and display vendors. I’m thinking light-field emitter. Each “pixel” on the screen might be composed of 10, 20, 100 directional pixels, each producing a different color and intensity. You could see 3D without any glasses. The headache-inducing problems with stereo-screens might be eliminated. You could view a Lytro image in its raw form. User interfaces and content could be much more immersive.

Power Saving, Secure Displays

Building on the last thought, our displays currently feed us information by blasting light out in a hemisphere — we’ve gotta have those viewing angles. Well, coupled with a face-tracking feature, the ultra-high resolution display could emit light only in the direction of the user, saving power from the light that would have otherwise hit inanimate objects or prying eyes.

Simultaneous Multi-use Display

Never again suffer through watching a movie or show that you don’t like. Two people, watching from different vantage points, could watch two different things. In fact, you could display as many different 2D media as you have emitting angles. Watch two movies. Play two, four, or maybe eight-player console games where each player has their own view.

There are probably many more possibilities. The future looks awesome.