With LG, Sony and Panasonic all bidding to dominate the discussion surrounding OLEDs at CES 2017, differentiating offerings from the competition is the challenge. Yet that’s exactly what Sony has achieved with its latest innovation: making the panel the speaker too.
The first manufacturer to release an OLED television, Sony has revealed that its newly unveiled flagship OLED series uses screen vibrations invisible to the human eye screen to emit sound.
Taking advantage of the fact OLED panels don’t require backlighting, unlike LCDs, Sony claim its A1E Bravia OLED Series is the world’s first ‘acoustic surface sound system.’
With speakers unseen by the eye, the manufacturer states the TVs – available in 55-, 65- and 75-in models – provide automatic sound and image synchronisation for the homeowner, from any viewing position.
The TVs incorporate the manufacturer’s 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme to deliver 4K resolution and HDR compatibility, in addition to Sony’s Triluminos technology for providing colour accuracy.
Sound is delivered by two actuators mounted to the rear of the display, with inputs via a large rear-facing subwoofer that also acts as the TV stand.
The A1E Bravia OLED Series will be released later this year, with pricing yet to be announced by Sony.