Samsung Electronics is unveiling its next-generation QLED 8K range at CES 2020 in Las Vegas this week, with all models meeting the requirements of the 8K Association’s (8KA) Certified Test Specifications as well as the CTA 8K Ultra HD Display Definition.
Bringing innovation to more immersive viewing experiences, the new QLED 8K TVs will have connected features to make consumer lifestyles more integrated in order to deliver the ultimate home entertainment experience.
Leveraging the power of enhanced AI technology to improve audio, video and smart capabilities, the 2020 QLED 8K lineup offers a range of smart features powered by Tizen, making it even easier for consumers to use voice commands and access new features.
The flagship model of the new line is the Q950TS QLED 8K TV, featuring surround sound audio, true-to-life 8K resolution and an ultra-thin form factor.
Joe Stinziano, head of consumer electronics business at Samsung Electronics America said: “8K resolution has the potential to transform our industry. Screens over 75-in are the fastest growing segment in the market, and that segment is where 8K resolution matters the most.
“Our 2020 8K lineup demonstrates the power of this potential. Its unprecedented immersive capabilities and unparalleled smart features empower consumers to pursue their passions more simply and more comprehensively than ever before.”
Leaked rumours
Last week, HiddenWires reported on
leaked photos of an apparent ‘frameless 8K display’ from the TV manufacturer.
It is now thought that the images were referring to this announcement of the Q950, as it practically eliminates the bezel around the display, creating a screen-to-body ratio of nearly 99 per cent, thought to be the largest in the market.
An Infinity Screen effect is experienced by consumers when watching from 10-15 feet away, where the bezels seem to disappear, resulting in an even more immersive viewing experience that eliminates boundaries between the TV and its surroundings.
The minimalistic design is just 15mm thin across the entire display combined with a completely flat black panel, ensuring that the Q950 can lay flush against the wall.
8K Association
Every model in the newly announced lineup will meet the requirements of the 8K Association’s Certified Test Specifications as well as the CTA 8K Ultra HD Display Definition.
The TV lineup is also among the first in the industry to support the playback of native 8K content, allowing consumers to stream AV1 codec videos filmed in 8K on the QLED 8K TVs. This capability will be built in to all Samsung TVs in the 2020 8K range.
Using Samsung’s semiconductor technology, the Q950’s Quantum Processor 8K features improved AI upscaling capabilities that uses machine learning to analyse and identify the characteristics of individual pixels, which then restores different elements of the image to create an 8K picture, regardless of content source.
Adaptive Picture technology is used in the display to ensure the TV can maintain a clear picture in bright rooms while still maintaining contrast, by taking into account the distribution of light within the particular scene.
Considering the speed of internet connections, AI ScaleNet ensures a smooth streaming connection by optimising the available network bandwidth. As it leaves the content provider, it compresses content and then restores it once it reaches the TV, effectively cutting the bandwidth needed in half.
Samsung Electronics is currently working with Amazon on this feature to bring 4K in Prime Video.
Immersive audio
An immersive experience doesn’t just include the viewing element, but the audio too. The Q950 features speakers on all sides of the TV, as well as subwoofers in the back.
The display uses Object Tracking Sound+ technology which uses AI-based software to match the movement of audio sound with the movement of objects on the screen. This allows the Q950 to deliver 5.1 channel surround sound.
Avoiding distraction from the content, Active Voice Amplifier technology adjusts the volume of dialogue and enhances voice clarity in response to background noise such as a hoover.
Enhanced smart home experience
Samsung’s AI assistant, Bixby, can be used to change the mood of a room. Consumers are able to ask Bixby to create a calm atmosphere for example and the TV will display a relaxing backdrop on the screen.
For further integration, Samsung will offer a choice of multiple voice assistants into the 2020 QLED 8K lineup.
A new and improved Universal Guide will also feature on the Q950, using an AI-based algorithm to analyse the type of content that consumers watch, as well as the services and TV channels that they tend to use, to offer recommendations that is unique to their taste.