Holoscopic 3D Imaging Systems: A Review of History, Recent Advances and Future Directions

As the demand for high-quality visual experiences continues to grow, advanced imaging technologies offering higher realism and immersion are being increasingly integrated into various fields. Among them, glasses-free 3D imaging has gained significant attention for enhancing user experience without the need for wearable equipment. Holoscopic 3D imaging systems, known for their capability to reconstruct true volumetric images and provide natural depth perception, have emerged as a promising direction within this domain. Originating from early 20th-century optical theory, holoscopic imaging has evolved in response to diversified application scenarios and rapid advancements in micro-optics and computational imaging. This paper presents a representative historical overview of the development of holoscopic 3D systems, their unique features compared to other glasses-free 3D technologies, and their expanding presence in these applications. By analyzing representative use cases across sectors such as healthcare, education, cultural heritage, and media entertainment, this review offers a broader and more detailed perspective on the deployment of holoscopic 3D systems. Furthermore, this paper discusses current technical challenges and outlines future research directions, with a particular focus on the transformative potential of holoscopic 3D in the creative and entertainment industries. This study aims to provide both theoretical grounding and practical insights to support the next generation of holoscopic 3D imaging technologies.