Welcome and great post vcselrevolution. Although I don't understand much of the tech, the conclusion is a graber... from Mr. Grabherr:
"VCSELs have evolved from an anomaly of semiconductor device to a commonly accepted laser source. VCSEL technology is stepping out of its niche and is becoming a mature semiconductor industry with the potential of billion pcs sold per year into various markets. The requirements are changing from predominantly performance driven towards improved productivity."