Sharp has this week unveiled LCD and OLED display panels based on the new indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) technology. Using advanced IGZO oxide semiconductors allows Sharp to create LCDs with smaller thin-film transistors, together with increased pixel transparency. The technology can also be applied to OLED screens, which can be paper-thin.
Advantages of IGZO Technology
As well as providing lower energy consumption displays combined with proprietary UV2A*3 photo-alignment technology employed in Sharp’s AQUOS LCD TVs, IGZO technology creates displays with higher image qualities. The increased pixel transparency means that less backlighting is required, which not only reduces power consumption but also enhances the brightness and clarity of the display. This makes IGZO panels particularly suitable for mobile devices, where battery life is a critical factor.
Moreover, IGZO technology supports higher resolution displays, enabling the creation of screens with more pixels per inch (PPI). This results in sharper images and text, which is particularly beneficial for applications such as high-definition video playback, gaming, and professional graphic design.
Prototypes and Future Applications
The first prototypes of the new IGZO LCD displays are a 4.9-inch 720 x 1280 screen, and a 6.1-inch screen sporting a resolution of 2560 x 1600 have been unveiled by Sharp. These prototypes demonstrate the potential of IGZO technology to deliver high-resolution displays in compact form factors, making them ideal for smartphones and tablets.
Together with other creations for future use including the flexible 3.4-inch 540 x 960 screen pictured above, and OLED panels, one 13.5-inch 3840 x 2160 QFHD panel based on White OLEDs with RGB color filters. The flexible screens open up new possibilities for innovative device designs, such as foldable smartphones and rollable displays, which can be easily transported and stored.
In addition to consumer electronics, IGZO technology has potential applications in other fields. For example, its high resolution and low power consumption make it suitable for medical imaging devices, where clear and detailed images are crucial. Similarly, it can be used in industrial and automotive displays, where durability and performance are essential.
The development of IGZO technology represents a significant advancement in display technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional silicon-based displays. As Sharp continues to refine and expand its IGZO product lineup, we can expect to see even more impressive and versatile displays in the future.
Source: Engadget : Sharp : Associated Press
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