Television technology has come a long way, from color TV to high-definition TV, 3DTV, Ultra HD TV, and 4K TV. Now, tech giants LG and Samsung are showcasing a new frontier at CES 2024 – Transparent TV.
The concept of a transparent television might sound counterintuitive, but LG and Samsung have presented displays at the CES show in Las Vegas that suggest a future where TVs seamlessly blend into their surroundings.
LG and Samsung are taking distinct approaches to achieve transparency. LG utilizes OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology, resulting in razor-thin displays with vibrant colors and deep blacks. On the other hand, Samsung employs micro LEDs made from non-organic compounds, similar to OLED, eliminating the need for built-in backlighting and delivering a breathtaking picture.
While both display technologies have been around for years, they have now evolved to enable transparent displays, making them stand out at CES 2024. Shelly Palmer, an expert who provides executive tech briefings at CES, described transparent TV technology as a “must-see.”
LG’s offering, the Signature OLED T, is a 77-inch OLED display expected to hit the market in the second half of the year. This TV can switch between transparent and opaque modes. In transparent mode, it can display art, videos, and data while allowing users to see through it. When watching TV or a movie, a contrast screen deploys, focusing the viewer’s attention on the on-screen action.
Describing the TV as an “object of design,” Frank Lee, Home Entertainment Brand Communication for LG Electronics, noted its ability to blend into various locations and decors. The wireless TV can be placed on a stand, against a wall, or mounted on a wall. Video content is delivered wirelessly from LG’s Zero Connect Box, housing video and audio connections in another room.
Despite being a visually impressive and unique addition to the market, the transparent OLED TV is expected to come at a high cost, according to David Kender, editor-in-chief of Reviewed.com.
The inspiration for a transparent TV came from LG’s rollable screen, designed for high-end consumers with expansive windows who wanted to free up space by placing a TV in front of the windows without obstructing the view. The transparent TV can also be used to separate spaces in an open room or apartment.
Samsung, on the other hand, showcased its transparent Micro LED displays at CES, referring to them as “crystal-clear, glass-like.” While the company has not disclosed the timing or pricing for a market release, the modular nature of Micro LED technology allows for customizable displays of various sizes.
James Fishler, head of home entertainment at Samsung Electronics America, explained that the Micro LED technology comprises tiny LED chips that eliminate seams and light refraction, creating a screen that appears as a piece of transparent glass. The modular nature allows users to customize the size and shape of the display to fit unique spaces seamlessly.
Samsung introduced new 76-inch and 114-inch non-transparent Micro LED models at CES, emphasizing the versatility and exceptional picture quality of the technology. However, given the current high cost of Micro LED TVs, any transparent version is likely to be priced at a premium.
In summary, the emergence of transparent TV technology from LG and Samsung represents a significant step in television evolution, offering consumers new possibilities for blending technology into their living spaces.