In order to continue bringing the best and most vivid display to its users, Samsung has been expanding its 8K ecosystem, widening the scope of high-definition content experiences. With technology optimized to offer the brightest and sharpest 8K definition, users can enjoy a wide range of content including movies, NFT artworks and more. To learn more about Samsung’s 8K ecosystem, check out the card news below.

Samsung Electronics has been shaping the history of television through the development of its technological innovations, from FHD and 4K through to 8K, thanks to its strategic vision and an endless passion to bring new technologies to the market.

In order to learn more about the achievements made so far in the field of TV technological innovation, as well as the future of display technologies in the age of UHD screens, Samsung Newsroom sat down with TV experts to discuss these topics further.

(From left) Sangmin Lee, Head of the Picture Quality Solution Lab, Hyunchul Song from the Product Development Group and Youngseok Han from H/W Platform Lab of Samsung’s Visual Display Business

Pioneering the Future of TV Through Endless Innovation

These days, picture quality has become one of the most crucial factors consumers consider when choosing a TV. In 1977, Samsung succeeded in the development and mass production of a colour TV, the Colour Economy TV, for the first time in Korea, ushering in the era of colour television for the country. Samsung earned the title of the first colour TV manufacturer in Korea thanks to its steadfast dedication to innovation. Moreover, the company was never complacent about the colossal success of its black and white TV model, the Econo TV, which took the lion’s share within the monthly TV market at the time.

Samsung’s first LED TV, launched in 2009, wowed the world as a breakthrough in TV technology.

Next to be developed was the LCD TV, and, in 2009, Samsung unveiled its breakthrough model — the Samsung LED TV. The LED TV was the culmination of all the innovative technologies available at the time, allowing for superb picture quality brought about by light-emitting diodes. All components of Samsung’s LED TV were designed anew, and the number of patents acquired for this model exceeded 3,000.

Samsung’s QLED TV made its global debut at CES in 2017.

In 2017, Samsung then went on to introduce the world’s first QLED TV based on cadmium-free quantum dot technology at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The company’s innovative TV was at the center of attention that year, boasting superb picture quality and 100% colour volume[1].

A year later, the company brought to the market a QLED 8K model that incorporated 8K resolution into Samsung’s proprietary quantum dot technology. It featured Direct Full Array and a backlight technology able to precisely control the lighting balance across every part of the picture on-screen. In addition, the QLED TV also included 8K AI Upscaling[2], an upscaling technology designed to intelligently upgrade lower-quality videos into vivid 8K resolution, for the first time in the industry. Samsung’s innovative QLED 8K technologies are what launched the era of 8K.

“In 2020, Samsung unveiled the world’s first bezel-less TV that completely removed the bezels from around the display,“ said Hyunchul Song from the Product Development Group. “A year later, we further solidified our position as an industry leader by introducing our Neo QLED technology based on Quantum Mini LED displays. From FHD through to 8K, we have undertaken ceaseless efforts to develop innovative products that offer differentiated experiences based on consumer needs.”

Striving for Superb Picture Quality Through In-Depth Research Into Human Behavior

Samsung continues to strive to offer the best possible viewer experiences by delivering amazing picture quality. However, what does “good picture quality” mean to someone who works on its development?

“Picture quality is considered good when it delivers a sense of reality to the viewer that feels as if you are witnessing the images on-screen first-hand,” explained Youngseok Han, a developer from the H/W Lab. “To ensure good picture quality, display performance indicators such as high resolution, high luminance and excellent colour expression are essential. What also matters is how well-balanced the other cutting-edge technologies of the display are, including the chip design, the picture quality algorithms and the sound.”

Han went on to provide further insight into the importance of balance to the corresponding picture quality. “The factors that impact picture quality the most are how well you organize the various relevant technologies. These include those designed to reduce distortion and any image transmission noise, those that reproduce colours precisely and richly and create sharp contrast for more vivid, clear images and those motion technologies that ensure the movement of objects on-screen appears smooth and fluid.”

It would be impossible to develop good picture quality with just one singular technology, no matter how great that technology is. This is why Samsung is committed to developing innovative technologies through all kinds of different approaches without resting on their laurels as a leader in the industry. Recently introduced on the 2023 Neo QLED TV, Real Depth Enhancer is one of the new features that has been developed to further improve picture quality.

When human eyes are focused on an object, attention is directed onto the object by optimizing sharpness, clarity and texture, all while also maintaining the background scene. Samsung’s Real Depth Enhancer technology was developed based on an understanding of this human behavior, and harnesses AI to automatically separate an object from its background to create a greater sense of depth and make the images truly pop.

Furthermore, Neo Quantum Matrix Pro technology improves the playback of fine details through precise control of the quantum mini LEDs across a total of 16,384 levels[3]. This meticulous adjustment further adds dimension and a sense of reality to the images on-screen.

“Our Real Depth Enhancer technology is the result of an optimization of all the relevant technologies in a way that takes human psychology into account, instead of focusing only on improving resolution,” noted Han.

From 8K Games to Artworks on Samsung TVs in the Age of 8K Technology

These days, users are being bombarded by new content. Tens of thousands of new pieces of media and content are being published every day across all manner of platforms — but does the same apply to content being made in 8K?

“Following the recent growth of 8K devices including smartphones, anyone is able to create 8K content and view it in ultra-high resolution,” said Sangmin Lee, Head of the Picture Quality Solution Lab. “High-performance graphics cards also now make it possible for users to play 8K games, meaning that we are already living in the age of 8K UHD.”

Song further detailed the growth of 8K content in today’s viewing market. “There is a growing amount of 8K content available on social media channels, and artists are creating digital artworks in 8K,” he explained. “We added in ‘YouTube Videos in 8K’ feature to the 2023 Neo QLED TV to allow users to peruse the 8K content available on YouTube and explore digital artworks, such as an image in NFT[4] form, at a single glance.”

Samsung is also taking the lead in expanding the 8K content ecosystem by being at the helm of the 8K Association, a global non-profit organization established in 2019 with the aim of establishing 8K standards and expanding 8K content. As of February 2023, the association has 33 members, including Samsung, TV panel producers, SoC chip makers and leading content creators. Last year, Samsung released a teaser for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power series in 8K developed in collaboration with Amazon Prime Video, another member of the 8K Association.

Developing Optimal Picture Quality That Takes Viewing Experiences to the Next Level

In order to learn more about the next steps for industry leader Samsung when it comes to picture quality in the age of 8K technology, Samsung Newsroom asked the three TV professionals what their goals are.

“As a developer, I feel the most accomplished when I hear the feedback that viewers think the images on-screen seem real to them,” said Han. “My goal is to further improve our algorithms by optimizing a range of components in order to deliver picture quality that is ‘more real than real’ to viewers.”

For Song, creating technologies that bring real value to users is of the utmost importance. “While the development department works to create the best picture quality through technological innovation, I am more involved in optimizing products to bring high-quality experiences to as many viewers as possible,” said Song. “I will continue to deliberate on what other kinds of user value we can bring to our viewers.”

Finally, from Lee’s perspective, the goal is and always has been to provide users with experiences that go beyond simply watching content. “The most important value that a display can provide is to present images that seem more real than reality itself,” explained Lee. “Through the best picture quality algorithms and leading sound performance, the optimal picture quality that is delivered then allows users to enjoy their favorite content without having to worry about adjusting the settings. Our ultimate goal is to offer superb picture quality that enables users to thoroughly enjoy their viewing experiences that go beyond simply watching content.”

Stay tuned in the Samsung Newsroom for the second and final part of this series, highlighting the role of the 8K TV and the innovative technologies Samsung has been developing to provide the best possible viewing experiences to its users.

[1] 100% colour volume according to DCI-P3 Colour Space tested by Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE Germany).

[2] 8K AI Upscaling enhances content to near-8K picture quality. Based on laboratory testing. Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. 8K AI Upscaling may not apply to PC connection, and certain conditions of Game Mode.

[3] The number of levels in quantum mini LEDs has been corrected from 13,684 to 16,384 levels as of April 3, 2023

[4] SAVAGE is a high quality NFT marketplace featuring 4K/8K video and photography. With over 50 titles at launch in March 2023, SAVAGE will expand throughout the year with more than 250 new pieces from top creators and brands.

Samsung Electronics recently announced the global availability of its all-new Smart Monitor, an innovative, do-it-all screen that brings together a suite of features for work, learning and entertainment, all in a single display.

Designed to meet the new needs of today’s consumers, who are now working, learning and consuming entertainment at home, Samsung Smart Monitor incorporates powerful mobile and PC connectivity, remote home office and learning features as well as Smart Hub, a comprehensive entertainment hub that is similar to Samsung’s built-in Smart TV platform.

“The new Smart Monitor showcases Samsung’s continued commitment to industry-leading innovation in technology that understands and supports the lifestyles of our customers,” said Pat Bugos, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Home Entertainment, Samsung Electronics Canada. “Our new Smart Monitor has been designed to meet the demand for technology that serves the new normal for many Canadians as entertainment, work and education increasingly take place at-home. The Smart Monitor offers a one-screen solution to customers, bringing their display and entertainment needs together into one hub.”

The new Samsung Smart Monitor provides numerous connectivity options for both PCs and smartphones. Users can connect their personal mobile devices with just a simple tap using Tap View[1], App Casting or Apple AirPlay 2. For a complete desktop experience using a mobile device, users can also connect to the monitor with Samsung DeX.

For home office and learning, the display operates Microsoft Office 365 applications[2] without a PC connection thanks to embedded Wi-Fi, allowing users to view, edit and save documents in the cloud directly from the monitor. Remote Access also allows users wirelessly and remotely access files from a PC or view content from a laptop, whether it is situated in the house or at the office. The USB Type-C port[3] allows for data, display and power — up to 65W — with just a single connection, keeping the area around the monitor clean and beautiful. Multiple USB ports and Bluetooth 4.2 allow for additional connection versatility while the display has a built-in two channel speaker.

When work is done, the display also operates as a complete entertainment hub with the ability to stream content with Samsung’s Smart Hub. The monitor’s app store allows users to stream their favourite content[4] even without a connection to a PC or mobile device. Content can easily be accessed with the supplied remote control which includes streaming service hot keys. The display can also be controlled by voice thanks to Bixby integration.

The Smart Monitor also features technology designed to make viewing more comfortable. Adaptive Picture optimizes picture quality for any viewing environment by automatically adjusting brightness and colour temperature in response to room conditions. This ensures the most comfortable viewing experience in any environment, reducing eye strain even after extended use. The monitor also features a special eye-saver mode to reduce blue light.

The monitor is available in two models at launch. The M7 supports Ultra-High Definition (UHD) resolution in 32-inch while the M5 supports Full HD (FHD) resolution in 32-inch and 27-inch options.

The Samsung Smart Monitor will be available in late November in Canada. For more information, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ca/monitors/.

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[1] Tap view is compatible with Galaxy devices running Android 8.1 or higher, and version 5.1 in the SmartThings app.

[2] Subscription required.

[3] Available on Samsung M7 model

[4] Streaming service availability and the remote control’s technical specifications may vary by country. Subscription required.

[5] Streaming service availability may vary by country.

[6] Streaming service availability may vary by country.

New to the Samsung 2018 QLED TV lineup are several features that are designed to meet consumers’ needs for better picture quality, convenience, connection and sharing. These include Direct Full Array, new smart functionality featuring Bixby and the redesigned One Invisible Connection feature. Further differentiating the unique design of Samsung QLED TV’s, the new lineup also features Ambient Mode, an innovative design solution that allows the TV to blend into the home environment.

Additionally, Samsung is reinforcing its commitment to ultra-large screen televisions by introducing several models across its lineup in sizes that are 75-inches and above to meet today’s consumer demands.

“Our 2018 lineup of televisions deliver intuitive innovation with inspired design that allow Canadians to immerse themselves in the content they want to experience,” said Pat Bugos, VP Sales and Marketing, Consumer Electronics, Samsung Canada.

Highlights of the 2018 lineup include:

Direct Full Array

Specific to the Q9F and Q8F QLED TVs, these sets will feature Direct Full Array (DFA) contrast technology. An impressive framework of precisely controlled LEDs delivers pristine contrast across all images displayed onscreen.

Ambient Mode

To complement the seamless look of the new TV lineup, Ambient Mode has been introduced to offer added value even when consumers are not watching TV. With a multitude of information available on the screen, including traffic, weather and news, Ambient Mode extends the television’s use to that of an information hub within the home. Users can also take a picture of their wall decor using the SmartThings app and apply it to their QLED TV, which matches with the interior décor to produce an elegant, seemingly transparent screen – no longer a plain, black screen when they are not watching TV.

One Invisible Connection

With several features designed to make the daily lives of consumers easier, the 2018 Samsung QLED TV lineup delivers value beyond that which TVs were once capable of providing. With its new One Invisible Connection feature, there will now be only one singular cord between the TV, external devices and your power connection, transmitting both data and power with a seamless look. This marks the first singular cable in the TV industry that can transmit AV high capacity data at the speed of light while also transmitting power. The cable is designed using Teflon, which is resistant to high heat and known for its durability. It is also equipped with an insulation system that breaks the electrical current if the cable is cut off, ensuring consumer peace of mind.

Smart TV, Featuring Bixby

Along with new picture quality and design enhancements, the 2018 lineup of Samsung Smart TVs has become even smarter. Wi-Fi connection and app setup time during the initial setup of the television has been drastically reduced with Effortless Login, making for a seamless setup experience. To further ensure ease of use, 2018 QLED TVs will feature Bixby, a Samsung intelligence platform that first launched on its mobile devices. The TV will understand spoken natural language¹ and quickly search for content. Users will be able to sync their Galaxy smartphone to their TV for easier setup and access to functions including program guides, remote control and video sharing between screens.

Samsung 2018 TV Lineup Details

The 2018 Samsung TV lineup features more than 11 models across the QLED TV, Premium UHD, UHD and Ultra-Large Screen display range, available in a variety of sizes. Models in the 2018 lineup feature both flat and curved display options as follows:

• QLED TV: Models in the 2018 QLED TV lineup include – Q9F (65”, 75”, 88”), Q8F (55”, 65”, 75”, 82”), Q7C (55”, 65”), Q7F (55”, 65”, 75”) and Q6F (49”, 55”, 65”, 75”, 82”). The QLED TVs feature enhanced color and contrast, HDR10+ compatibility, Ambient Mode, Smart TV enhancements with Bixby Voice, One Remote Control and the One Invisible Connection. One Invisible Connection only can be used with Q7, and Q9 series

• Premium UHD: Models in the 2018 Premium UHD TV lineup include NU8500 and NU8000. The Premium UHD TVs include features such as dynamic crystal color, HDR10+ compatibility, clean cable solutions, and Smart TV enhancements with Bixby Voice and One Remote Control.

• UHD: Models in the 2018 UHD TV lineup include NU7100 (75/65/58/55/50/43/40″) and NU7300(65/55″). These UHD TVs include features such as 4K UHD and HDR picture capabilities, clean cable solutions, slim design and Smart TV capabilities.

• Ultra-Large Screen TVs: Models including the Q6FN, NU8000, Q7F and Q9F are included in the ultra-large screen TV lineup, offering screen sizes that are 75-inch or larger. These models reflect consumer demand for larger screen televisions for a more impactful, immersive home viewing experience.

Samsung’s 2018 lineup of televisions will be available in stores on April 20, 2018. For more information on Samsung’s TV lineup, please visit www.samsung.com.

1 Bixby recognizes select languages; others to be supported. Using Bixby Voice may be limited under certain situations. Bixby Voice is designed to recognize certain US English accents and dialects. Some Bixby features may not be available depending on country, region, or language.