Metasurface Structural Color: From Fundamentals to Applications in Next‐Generation Displays

ABSTRACT Metasurface structural color, which emerges from the interaction between sub‐wavelength meta‐atoms and incident light, presents inherent advantages in terms of resolution and environmental stability, thus positioning it as a crucial enabler for next‐generation displays. Despite remarkable progress achieved in performance metrics, modulation capabilities, and fabrication scalability, there is still a lack of review dedicated to the specific requirements and pixel‐level application prospects for displays. This review introduces a unified framework centered around the “meta‐pixel”, which is a functional unit integrating spectral control and dynamic tunability. We commence by examining the fundamental spectral regulation mechanisms, such as plasmonic resonances, Mie resonances, and mode hybridization. Subsequently, we emphasize the recent advancements in meta‐pixel performance in aspects of color quality, efficiency, angle‐robustness, and ultra‐high resolution, along with the progress in dynamic tuning and addressing technologies. Then, we explore the emerging display applications facilitated by these capabilities, like light field 3D, transparent, and multifunctional displays. Finally, we review the scalable fabrication techniques and discuss the critical challenges and future directions, including intelligent interaction and information fusion. By integrating mechanisms, materials, device engineering, and applications, this review offers a comprehensive foundation for the continuous development and industrialization of metasurface‐based display technologies.