According to a report on the ETN News website, Samsung and LG may be showcasing their new 55-inch OLED screens at CES in January 2012. The companies are then hoping to start shipping the new OLED screens in the second quarter of 2012, aiming to capitalize on the month before the arrival of the Olympic games later in 2012.
But don’t get too excited just yet, as in an interview, LG Display’s CEO Kwon Young-soo explained that the first production runs of the more profitable and larger OLED screens will only be in the tens of thousands. So you can still expect a hefty price tag to be attached to them.
What Makes OLED Technology Special?
OLED, or Organic Light Emitting Diode, technology is considered a significant advancement over traditional LCD and LED screens. Unlike LCDs, which require a backlight, OLED screens generate their own light. This allows for deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and a thinner display. The self-lighting pixels can turn off completely to produce true black, enhancing the contrast ratio and overall picture quality. This makes OLED screens particularly appealing for high-definition content and gaming.
Market Implications and Consumer Expectations
The introduction of 55-inch OLED screens by Samsung and LG is expected to set a new standard in the television market. However, the limited initial production run means that these screens will likely be priced at a premium, making them accessible primarily to early adopters and high-end consumers. As production scales up and technology becomes more widespread, prices are expected to decrease, making OLED technology more accessible to the average consumer.
The timing of the release is strategic, as the companies aim to capture the market interest leading up to the 2012 Olympic Games. High-profile events like the Olympics often drive demand for new television technology, as consumers look to upgrade their viewing experience.
Have a look at our article which explains the difference between LCD and LED TV’s, plus our handy OLED TV Explained guide for more information on the latest HDTV’s.
The Future of OLED Technology
As OLED technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more impressive advancements. Future OLED screens may offer higher resolutions, such as 8K, and improved energy efficiency. Additionally, flexible and transparent OLED displays are already in development, which could revolutionize not just televisions, but also smartphones, tablets, and even wearable technology.
The upcoming release of 55-inch OLED screens by Samsung and LG marks an exciting development in the world of television technology. While the initial high cost may be a barrier for some, the superior picture quality and innovative features of OLED screens are likely to make them a sought-after item for tech enthusiasts and high-end consumers. As production increases and prices eventually come down, OLED technology has the potential to become the new standard in home entertainment.
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