MetaOptics to deploy Direct Laser Writer at University of Arizona for U.S. expansion

Source: PRNewswire Location: SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE, July 22, 2026 — MetaOptics Ltd (Catalist: 9MT) ("MetaOptics" or the "Company," and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") has announced an agreement to deploy its key metalens Direct Laser Writer ("DLW") system at the University of Arizona's Center of Semiconductor Manufacturing (the "University").

The agreement marks a critical step in advancing the Company's U.S. expansion strategy and its collaborative research with world-class semiconductor stakeholders in Arizona. Installation of the DLW is expected to commence in 2027.

Key Details of the Deployment

• System Capabilities: The DLW is designed for a 4-inch wafer, enabling quick prototyping and fabrication of metalens samples within weeks.
• Production Support: It supports small-volume production for pilot builds and customer demand evaluation, allowing partners to iterate faster and move from concept to product more efficiently.
• U.S. Demonstration Site: The deployment will allow prospective customers in the U.S. to physically witness the system in action for their metalens prototyping needs.
• Research Collaboration: The system will support collaborative research and evaluation by University researchers under the guidance of Dr. Krishna Muralidharan of the University of Arizona's Department of Materials Science and Engineering.

Strategic Importance

MetaOptics expects the deployment to:

• Generate user feedback and user demonstration opportunities
• Provide further technical validation of its metalens equipment and products
• Serve as a launchpad to scale commercial production and collaboration in the U.S. market

The DLW will anchor a "mini foundry" at the University for small-volume, quick turnaround prototyping. Beyond research, the installation serves a commercial purpose as a U.S. demonstration site where potential distributors, universities, and research institutions can physically witness the DLW in operation. It will also produce metalens samples for prospective customers' evaluation.

Alignment with U.S. Semiconductor Ecosystem

The deployment positions the Group to support emerging U.S. initiatives in silicon photonics, co-packaged optics, and integrated photonics, where its metalens technology is directly applicable. With Arizona's fast-growing semiconductor ecosystem—home to world-class manufacturers and suppliers—the Company aims to leverage its presence at the University and the wider ecosystem to deepen engagement with prospective industry partners and end customers.

Executive Commentary

MetaOptics Executive Chairman Thng Chong Kim commented:

"By placing our Direct Laser Writer within a world-class semiconductor research environment in Arizona, we will be able to strengthen technical validation and gather valuable user feedback. It also supports our ongoing engagements with potential industry partners and end-customers while showcasing our metalens manufacturing equipment to prospective distributors and institutions across the United States. We believe this deployment reinforces our broader U.S. expansion efforts and deepens our engagement in Arizona's world-class semiconductor ecosystem."

About MetaOptics Ltd

MetaOptics Ltd (Catalist: 9MT) is a semiconductor optics company pioneering glass-based metalens solutions enhanced by AI-driven image processing. Using advanced optical design and a scalable 12-inch DUV lithography process, it powers next-generation applications in CPO, mobile, AR VR, automotive, and other emerging markets.

For more information, visit: www.metaoptics.sg

Forward-Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements which can be identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "likely to," "potential," "continue" or other similar expressions. Any statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company's growth strategies, its future business development, results of operations and financial condition.