This evolution was on full display in London this week, as Samsung celebrated the upcoming summer of sport and its #WatchItOnASamsung campaign with an exclusive event: In Conversation with Thierry Henry.

Football legend Thierry Henry joined journalist Ben Jacobs for an exclusive discussion exploring the beautiful game, looking beyond the pitch to see how fans truly experience it.

Seeing the Game Differently

The event gathered media, creators and industry voices across Europe, who then had the opportunity to try Samsung’s latest visual display innovations for themselves. Through live demonstrations designed to mirror real matchday conditions, Samsung showed how new technology is redefining how fans experience matchday, whether they are at home, with friends or at their local venue.

To open the event, Henry reflected on his love for football growing up, and how his experiences as a player, coach and analyst shaped his view of this new era of football. For elite players, football is defined by split-second decisions, movement and awareness – moments where everything can change in an instant. When the viewing experience falls short, those details can get lost. For fans, they are what creates tension, drama and connection in every match.

His perspective set the tone for what followed: a closer look at how technology is now able to capture those moments in the highest quality, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.

Where Every Detail Counts

Samsung’s latest display technologies are designed with this in mind. MicroRGB, shown during the event, takes a new approach by generating colour directly from microscopic red, green and blue LEDs rather than relying on traditional backlighting. The result is more precise contrast and colour, helping preserve detail even during rapid play.

At the event, large-screen displays and glare-free OLED technology recreated real matchday conditions to reflect how people actually watch games – often with ambient light, distractions and multiple viewers.

Attendees saw firsthand how Samsung’s display innovation translates into sharper ball tracking, clearer player movement and a more consistent experience across environments. Ultimately, it’s about preserving the integrity of the game, wherever and however it’s watched.

AI Subs In, Quietly

If picture quality is about preserving key moments, AI is what ensures they are experienced at their best. The next shift lies in how televisions respond in real time to what’s on screen.

Across demonstration zones, Samsung’s AI-powered features worked quietly in the background to show media and creators the real difference in AI-optimised viewing. Tools like AI Football Mode and AI Sound Controller Pro automatically adjusted picture and audio to enhance motion clarity, balancing sound and reducing distractions for a clearer, more engaging way to watch a match.[1]

Features like these, along with the introduction of Vision AI Companion[2], point to a broader evolution. Rather than individual features working alone, Vision AI Companion positions the television as an intelligent system that understands content, environment and user preferences all at once.

This reflects Samsung’s wider direction: moving beyond isolated intelligence into a more holistic approach to AI, where devices work together to anticipate needs and adapt accordingly. The result? A more personalised, intuitive experience where AI acts as your companion. And for the fans, it means a better way to watch high-intensity moments all summer.

From Stadium to Screen – What’s Next

Technology is expanding what’s possible when enjoying the biggest sporting moments. Advances in display technology, sound quality and the integration of AI mean the viewing experience is more tailored and enhanced than ever before.

While the way we watch football continues to evolve, some things remain unchanged, the atmosphere, the people you’re with, and the shared love of the game. That sense of connection was clear during the evening of the event, as guests came together to chat, reflect on the day’s conversations, over drinks and matchday-inspired menu, a reminder of football’s unique ability to bring people together.

Whether through clearer visuals or technology that adapts in real time, the goal is always to seamlessly capture the moments that matter, so the feeling of matchday stays with you long after the final whistle.

[1] Feature availability and performance may vary depending on the content viewed and the apps used.

[2]  Information based on current viewing is only available on Samsung TV Plus channels. Provides AI-created content, with accuracy not guaranteed. Voice commands recognise English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, and Korean, but not all accents, dialects, and s are recognized. This feature provides AI-created content, with accuracy not guaranteed—please check results. Requires certain Bluetooth remote (sold separately on some models). Inbox remote for some models does not support voice recognition. Requires either a Mobile Quick Remote or separately purchased Bluetooth remote. Feature accessible by the AI button, or by the Home button (long press) on the remote control without an AI button.

As a major summer of football approaches fans across the UK are gearing up to support their favourite teams. While many fans will be supporting outside of the stadium, new research from Samsung Electronics reveals that not all match day experiences are created equal.

The survey showed that with many fans watching in local venues, the top priority for match days is TV picture quality (83%), ranking higher than location convenience (80%), atmosphere (79%) and quality of food and drink (64%).

More than eight in ten (86%) of British football fans surveyed said watching a match together makes them feel part of a community. The community aspect is a key factor for sports fans, with almost half (43%) saying that who they watch a match with matters when watching a major tournament.

Quality time or viewing quality?

The desire for community remains strong. Most fans watch major tournaments together whether at home with family (54%), with friends (30%), or at a pub (41%).

Despite this clear desire to share the matchday watch, the quality of the viewing experience is holding many venues and homes back from being the go-to matchday set-up. In fact, more than eight in ten (82%) fans say picture and sound quality directly impacts how much they enjoy a major match.

Almost two-thirds (65%) of football fans have experienced some form of disruption while watching a major match at a venue, including:

• Blocked or restricted viewing angles: 29%
• Commentary volume unclear or inconsistent: 25%
• Glare or sunlight reflection affecting screen visibility: 23%
• Sound slightly out of sync with the action: 23%
• Screen not bright enough during daytime matches: 18%
• Difficulty tracking the ball clearly: 17%

Closing the gap in the match day experience

These issues are influencing where fans choose to watch the big game, prompting some to leave venues early, not return, or leave a venue to find a better TV viewing experience elsewhere.

Two thirds (66%) of football fans said they would visit their local community hub, pub or sports club more often if it improved its viewing experience. Almost three in five (59%) fans surveyed feel proud when their local venue is considered the ‘go-to place’ to watch live sport matches.

As fans look for experiences that combine both atmosphere and quality, it’s clear that most are looking for a match day experience that balances viewing quality with community spirit.

The research comes as Samsung marks 20 consecutive years of being the global No.1 TV brand[1], continuing to deliver immersive match day experiences whether in a local venue or at home.

To celebrate this milestone, Samsung has partnered with football legend, Thierry Henry to support its #WatchItOnASamsung campaign, focused on Samsung’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality matchday viewing experiences this sporting season – whether you are in your local venue or at home. In fact, more than half of fans surveyed (57%) said a Samsung would be their preferred TV to watch a football match on.

Henry will help the brand to showcase its latest TV innovations across its Micro RGB, OLED and Neo QLED range, from glare free technology to AI Football Mode & AI Sound Controller Pro – which allows users to adjust audio, such as muting background crowd noise – in a series of branded films and an exclusive event.

“Football is all about bringing people together whether you’re watching at the stadium, at home or at your local venue. But it’s also a game where split-second moments can change everything, so the quality of how you watch is just as important as the match itself,” Thierry Henry commented.

“Football, like all sports, brings people together to create shared moments and memories for fans across the world. However, as technology evolves, so do expectations and viewing habits. One thing remains true no matter how you watch live games, highlights, or key sporting moments, and that is that you always want the highest quality viewing experience,” shared Dan Harvie, VP of Home Entertainment and Appliances at Samsung UK.

“Our research also underlines the importance of community and how watching live sport together is as important as it ever was. Our latest ‘Raise The Bar’ campaign is all about supporting your local pubs and venues with the latest Samsung TVs and sound devices so the community can benefit from the best equipment possible and everyone can enjoy the exciting summer of sport together.”

Celebrating the role of shared matchday moments, fans can find out more about the ‘Raise The Bar’ campaign and vote to support their local venue at watchitonasamsung.com.

For more information on the latest range of Samsung TVs, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/tvs/all-tvs/

[1] Source: Omdia, February 2026. Global television market share by manufacturer, based on annual sales by volume and revenue. According to Omdia data, Samsung has been the world’s leading TV brand for 20 consecutive years. For general information only; not an endorsement, certification or recommendation by Omdia.

As the nation prepares for an exciting summer of sport, Samsung and ex-England football international Joe Cole are teaming up to offer UK pubs a tech upgrade. Through a national vote Samsung will be giving thousands of pounds worth of TV tech upgrades to pubs across the country so they can provide the ultimate viewing experience for their customers to enjoy.  

This is after 79% of UK pub landlords stated that a good TV is crucial to increasing their revenue during key sporting event such as those that are fast approaching this year. However, financial pressures and rising costs mean investment in high-quality viewing tech remains a challenge for them. Pub and bar closures have doubled during the past five years as operators battle increased running costs and taxes.^[1]

New research from Samsung confirms watching football at the pub remains a key part of British culture, with 4 in 10 (40%) Brits watching most major football tournaments at their local. A further 86% agreed that watching it together makes them feel part of a community.

This summer, UK pubs are therefore set to see a surge of football fans eager to watch the games, with 87% of landlords noting that major football tournaments are vital for increasing their revenue – reporting an average increase of £11,000 revenue per pub during these periods and an estimated additional £495m revenue across the UK pub industry as a whole.

For these football fans across the country a venue’s quality of tech is essential, as pub-goers increasingly prioritise those with premium TV screen to ensure that they don’t miss a moment – with 60% letting it dictate their choice of pub.

A third (33%) of landlords want to invest in a new TV and sound system but simply can’t afford it, with six years being the average time since landlords across the nation last upgraded their TV. This could cost pubs dearly, with 97% of Brits admitting they would leave a pub during a match if the TV was of poor quality.

In fact, the study also reveals that Brits consider the screen and audio set up the most important consideration when choosing a venue to watch sport (39%), food available (30%) and beers on tap (23%).

A huge 74% of Brits have stated their local or favourite pub needs a better TV in time for the summer of football. Samsung’s ‘Raise The Bar’ campaign offers a golden opportunity for venues to upgrade their tech in time for kick off, supporting venues in driving footfall and bringing communities together this summer. By providing brand new Samsung TVs fans it will ensure fans have the ultimate viewing experience so they don’t miss key moments and are able to watch everything perfectly whether its key tackles, VAR decisions or goals.

Backed by Joe Cole, the England legend is calling on the nation to rally behind their local pubs and nominate them to win the thousands of pounds worth of brand-new equipment. In addition to tech makeover, Samsung will support venues and pubs across the country with advertising support to drive footfall during a key period. Collectively, Samsung will be putting more than £50,000* towards local pubs and venues across the country, supporting communities across the nation.

Joe Cole said: “Local pubs are at the heart of our communities, especially when it comes to football. There’s nothing quite like watching a big game down the pub surrounded by mates and the atmosphere can make all the difference.

“Having a quality TV setup that you can trust is an important part of that experience as it keeps everyone in the moment. This initiative is about giving local pubs the tools they need to bring people together and create those unforgettable match day memories.”

Zeena Hill, Senior Marketing Director for Home Entertainment & Appliances at Samsung UK, said: “Local pubs and venues across the UK play a vital role in bringing communities together, especially during major sporting moments. At Samsung, we are focused on providing a high-quality viewing experience no matter where you are. We’re proud to be supporting communities across the UK and give them the opportunity to upgrade their technology to provide the best possible match day experience to their customers.

“Our aim is to help give this vital part of the hospitality sector a helping hand where it’s needed, all the while providing fans with a good reason to support their local to enjoy the exciting summer ahead, together.”

With a ‘squad’ of eleven being chosen from the customer voting process, 10 of those chosen will get their hands on a brand-new Samsung TV worth £3,000 alongside local marketing support from Samsung to help drive some football footfall and awareness. In the final stages of the campaign the squad of venues will be driving further voting to engage their local community. From this, one lucky venue will receive a transformative tech upgrade and pub makeover worth more than £10,000 including dedicated media support.

The initial vote opens at 8am today, Friday April 17, and will run until 5pm on Wednesday, May 20. To get behind pubs in need of support football fans should visit watchitonasamsung.com to nominate their local. A shortlist of eleven pubs and venues that have made it to the final stage will be unveiled on Thursday April 30, after which there will be the opportunity for fans to cast their vote for one final pub to benefit from a full tech makeover and support of a revamp. After the end of the voting period the winner and 10 runners up announced by Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Watching football together creates a sense of community and unforgettable shared memories, no matter the final score. There’s no better way to catch the game than on a Samsung TV, offering the most premium viewing experience for fans this summer.

[1] UHY, 23 March 2026

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announces a new partnership with football legend Thierry Henry as part of its pan-European campaign marking 20 years as the Global No.1 TV brand^[1]. Launching ahead of a major summer of sport, the campaign will celebrate how technology brings fans together to enjoy the game.

Rooted in the idea that football brings communities together, the campaign will introduce the brand platform, and showcase Thierry’s preferred way to watch sport, on a Samsung.

Whether watching at a local venue with friends or from the comfort of your home, the campaign will celebrate football as it’s meant to be experienced: together – elevated by premium TV experiences that transform matchday moments into lasting memories.

Ex-Arsenal and French national player, Thierry Henry, said: “For me, how you watch sport matters just as much as the sport itself. This campaign will show how technology can really elevate those moments, whether you’re watching football at a local venue or at home, it’s always better when you watch it on a Samsung.”

Zeena Hill, Senior Director of Marketing at Samsung UK and Ireland, said: “For 20 years Samsung has been at the heart of how people have experienced some of the most memorable sporting moments around the world. Football has a unique power to bring people together whether that’s watching your TV in a family living room or in a public space. This campaign with Thierry Henry celebrates these shared moments that we all love and enjoy. Because when it matters most, it’s not just what you watch but how you watch it.”

With excitement building ahead of a summer of international football, there has never been a better time to discover how Samsung TVs can elevate the viewing experience. For more information, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/tvs

[1]Source: Omdia, February 2026. Global television market share by manufacturer, based on annual sales by volume and revenue. According to Omdia data, Samsung has been the world’s leading TV brand for 20 consecutive years. For general information only; not an endorsement, certification or recommendation by Omdia.