Yesterday Samsung South Africa unveiled its 2024 TV and sound device line-up at the local Unbox & Discover event which took place at Samsung Experience Store, Design Quarter, Johannesburg, showcasing the latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K, OLED TVs and sound devices. As the world’s leading TV manufacturer for 18 consecutive years^[1], Samsung’s offerings at this year’s event elevate the home entertainment experience with a range of powerful, AI-driven solutions.

“We are expanding the limits of home entertainment by incorporating AI to transcend traditional viewing experiences,” said Mike van Lier, Vice President of the Consumer Electronics at Samsung South Africa. “This year’s TV line-up showcases our dedication to innovation, delivering products that not only of premium viewing quality but also significantly enrich our consumers’ lifestyles,” said Mike.

Elevating Senses With Neo QLED 8K: Clarity, Sound and Smart Experiences

Neo QLED 8K stands as the flagship of Samsung’s latest TV line-up, equipped with the advanced NQ8 AI Gen3 processor and marking a significant leap in AI TV technology. This processor features a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), along with an eightfold increase in neural networks from 64 to 512 — ensuring an exceptional viewing experience with crisp details, regardless of the input source.

Every scene on the Neo QLED 8K is a feast for the eyes, thanks to its AI-driven picture technology. It brings out the finest details with outstanding clarity and naturalness, from facial expressions to the most subtle nuances. With 8K AI Upscaling Pro,^[2] users’ favourite shows and movies are transformed to closely match the 8K display, allowing them to enjoy the level of details and picture clarity that surpasses conventional 4K TVs.^[3] Additionally, AI Motion Enhancer Pro^[4] makes fast action smoother and clearer — a dream for sports fans — while Real Depth Enhancer Pro adds a lifelike depth to the picture and pulls viewers into the scene every time. All these features come together to redefine the big screen experience.

The Neo QLED 8K also delivers audio powered by AI sound technology. This year’s Active Voice Amplifier Pro now excels at extracting dialogue from background noise, ensuring every word is heard clearly. Object Tracking Sound Pro^[5] also enriches the audio experience by syncing the sound with on-screen action, creating a more dynamic and engaging viewing experience. Adaptive Sound Pro further refines the audio experience by intelligently adjusting the audio to the content and room acoustics, for a genuinely rich and lifelike sound.

The Neo QLED 8K also boasts AI features that understand and adapt to user needs. The AI Auto Game Mode kicks in during gaming, optimizing the visuals and audio for an even more immersive and engaging gaming experience. The AI Customization Mode adjusts the picture for each scene based on user preference, while AI Energy Mode saves power without compromising picture quality. These features ensure that Neo QLED 8K is easy, personalized, and energy efficient for all entertainment needs.

The Neo QLED 8K available in two models, QN900D and QN800D, and in sizes of 65, 75, and 85 inches. While the Neo QLED 4K available in one model QN90D, and in sizes of 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 86, and 98 inches. The Neo QLED 8K and 4K line-up promises an unparalleled viewing experience in the premium large-screen category.

Smart Features With Samsung Tizen OS for Enhanced Integration and Personalization

In 2024, Samsung’s AI screens are set to redefine the user experience with advanced connectivity and a suite of smart features, apps and platforms. Leveraging the powerful Tizen OS, these innovations have created an ecosystem that is connected, personalized and secure through Knox Security. This allows devices to integrate effortlessly into users’ digital worlds, transforming screens into a central hub for all their needs.

Samsung’s latest TVs are designed to connect with a smart ecosystem immediately upon setup. The moment users turn on their new Samsung TV, the TV recognizes and connects to existing networks and devices, all orchestrated through a simple notification on users’ smartphones. This effortless setup extends to all Samsung devices at home as well as third-party appliances and IoT devices, thanks to its compatibility with HCA and Matter. This eliminates the need for extra hubs, so everything from lighting to security sensors can be managed directly from the screen.

Samsung’s 2024 screen line-up also brings integration with users’ smartphones to new heights. Users can simply bring their smartphone near the TV to activate Smart Mobile Connect, which turns the device into a universal remote for the TV and connected home appliances. Additionally, in 2024, users can use their smartphones as game controllers with a customizable user interface (UI) and haptic feedback, offering convenient and enhanced gameplay at their fingertips.

Beyond connectivity, Samsung’s 2024 Smart TVs also provide highly personalized experience with its apps and platforms. With the latest addition of widgets, TV screens are now personalized dashboards that allow users to easily monitor home status, camera feeds, energy usage, weather updates and more.

Security is paramount, and with Samsung Knox, every feature, app, and platform benefits from robust protection, allowing connected experiences to remain private and secure.

Expansive Line-up for All Entertainment Needs: Neo QLED 4K, OLED and Sound Devices

An expanded and enhanced range of TVs and sound devices designed to offer consumers a wider array of choices to suit diverse lifestyles and preferences is being introduced by Samsung this year. This comprehensive line up underscores Samsung’s commitment to innovation and a customer-centric approach.

The 2024 Neo QLED 4K line up brings cutting-edge innovations from the latest Neo QLED 8K flagship TVs, elevating the viewing experience with ground-breaking features powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor. This advanced chip breathes life into almost any content, rendering it in stunning 4K resolution. Enhanced by Real Depth Enhancer Pro^[6] and Quantum Matrix Technology, the screen ensures impeccable contrast even in complex scenes. With the world’s first Pantone Validated display for colour accuracy and Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience, Neo QLED 4K sets the bar for the ultimate 4K UHD experience. Neo QLED 4K will be available in sizes ranging from 55 to 98 inches, catering to diverse viewing environments.

Samsung is also introducing the world’s first Glare-Free OLED, eliminating unnecessary reflection while preserving deep blacks and clear images under any lighting condition. Powered by the same formidable NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor as the Neo QLED 4K line up, Samsung’s OLED TVs boast features like the Real Depth Enhancer and OLED HDR Pro,^[7] bringing picture quality to new heights.

Additionally, with features such as Motion Xcelerator 144Hz^[8] ensuring smooth motion and quick response rates, Samsung OLED is the ultimate choice for gaming. Complemented by sleek designs, these OLED TVs elevate the viewing space. Available in South Africa in two models — S95D, S90D — ranging from 55 to 83 inches, there’s a perfect fit for every home.

The 2024 line-up also includes the latest Q-Series Soundbar, Q990D, which boasts an 11.1.4-channel setup with Wireless Dolby Atmos. This model comes with a host of features that stand as a testament to Samsung’s continued leadership as the world’s best-selling soundbar brand for the past 10 years^[9], featuring innovations such as Sound Grouping for pulsating, room-filling sound and an option for personal listening that allows users to enjoy their content through rear speakers without disturbing others.

Lastly, Samsung has unveiled the all-new Music Frame, marrying premium audio with artistic design inspired by The Frame. This versatile device allows users to display personal pictures or artwork while enjoying wireless audio with smart features. Whether used as a standalone device or paired with a TV and Soundbar, the Music Frame promises an enhanced auditory experience that complements any space. The Music Frame will officially launch in South Africa in July 2024.

Samsung is pleased to announce the pre-order availability of its AI-powered TVs. Buy the 2024 Samsung AI TVs now and get amazing deals. When you buy the 65″ Neo QLED 8K TV, you get a R5 000 Samsung Online Store Voucher + Q-series Soundbar HW-Q990C, automatically added to cart. Offer valid 03 July 2024. T&C’s apply.

Now it is your chance to get an exclusive offer with your order of a Samsung AI-powered TV. Available at participating retailers and Samsung.com.

For more information or to pre-order Samsung’s 2024 TV products, please visit www.samsung.com/za/.

^[1] Based on Omdia confirmation letter (Feb-2024)

^[2] QN900D only. The features provided may vary by model.

^[3] Based on findings from Samsung’s internal study. Actual experiences may vary depending on individual viewing conditions and content quality.

^[4] QN900D only. The features provided may vary by model.

^[5] QN900D only. The features provided may vary by model.

^[6] Available on QN90 and QN95. The features provided may vary by model.

^[7] OLED HDR Pro available on S95D. The features provided may vary by model.

^[8] Motion Xcelerator 144Hz available on S95D and S90D. The features provided may vary by model.

^[9] Based on futuresource confirmation letter (Feb-2024)

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has been at the forefront of television (TV) innovation for decades, from the days when all the members of a town gathered to watch a black and white TV through to the present day, when everyone enjoys watching their favourite shows on a big Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) screen while sitting comfortably in their living room. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Samsung is inching ever closer to delivering picture quality that is as close to reality as possible through ceaseless technological innovation. The company is developing TV technologies and enhancing the 8K viewer experience by building a robust content ecosystem.

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 optimised 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.

Stepping above and beyond the already high-performing Neo QLED 4K, consumers find Samsung Neo QLED 8K. These screens offer the dazzling picture quality users have come to expect from Samsung in even more brilliant 8K resolution. The resolution has progressed from high definition (HD) to ultra-high definition (UHD) which includes 4K and 8K with a higher pixel display, thus offering superior quality. Powered by Neural Quantum Processor 8K, the state-of-the-art upscaling neural networks ensure that all content is displayed with utmost precision and immaculate picture quality.

As streaming platforms begin to offer content optimised for a larger 1.9:1 screen ratio, perfect for an immersive cinematic experience, having an 8K TV with premium picture quality is a sure-fire way to future-proof a home entertainment setup. With an 8K TV, whether it’s simply for TV shows or movies, videos, gaming or digital artwork, you get to enjoy a great picture and an all-round enhanced experience from your TV set.

“Consumers viewing needs and habits have evolved over time and we have endeavoured to keep bringing them only the best viewing experience and better ways of staying entertained. Our extensive range of TVs lets them choose exactly the kind of viewing experience they prefer and with our 8K resolution on offer, they can have greater freedom to choose and something more cinematic and immersive to feast their eyes on,” said Mike van Lier, Consumer Electronics Director at Samsung.

Samsung proudly supports Busan’s bid for the World Expo 2030.

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 far-sighted 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.

(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 being a pioneer in colour TV manufacturing in Korea thanks to its steadfast dedication to innovation, and 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 unrivalled 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 remarkable QLED TV based on cadmium-free quantum dot technology at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The company’s innovative TV was at the centre of attention that year, boasting superb picture quality and 100% colour volume. 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, a backlight technology able to precisely control the lighting balance across every part of the picture on-screen, as well as 8K AI Upscaling – an upscaling technology designed to intelligently upgrade lower-quality videos into vivid 8K resolution. Samsung’s innovative QLED 8K technologies played a crucial part in launching the era of 8K.

“In 2020, Samsung unveiled the incredible 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 innovator 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 Superior Picture Quality Through In-Depth Research Into Human Behaviour

Samsung continues to strive to offer the best possible viewer experiences by delivering astounding 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 trailblazing 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 organise 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 one of the ground-breakers 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 the end of further improving picture quality.

When human eyes are focused on an object, attention is directed onto the object by optimising 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 behaviour, 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. 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 optimisation 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 for those pieces of 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 NFT¹ form, at a single glance.”

Samsung is also spearheading the expansion of the 8K content ecosystem by being at the helm of the 8K Association, a global non-profit organisation 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, (System On a Chip) SoC chip makers and some well-known 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 Samsung in terms of 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 optimising 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 optimising 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 outstanding sound performance, the optimal picture quality that is delivered then allows users to enjoy their favourite 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 to Samsung Newsroom for the second and final part in 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 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.

The number of levels in quantum mini LEDs has been corrected from 13,684 to 16,384 levels as of 04-13, 2023.

Samsung proudly supports Busan’s bid for the World Expo 2030.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 15 August 2022 – The smallest products can bring about the biggest changes in our lifestyle. Enhancing your TV can be as simple as adding an accessory, but the results — from adding portability, to changing the format from landscape to portrait, to decorating your home — can have a significant impact on your viewing experience. Samsung Newsroom has compiled a list of the best simple and practical accessories made by Samsung Electronics to help you make the most out of your screen experience.

Consume Content Horizontally or Vertically With the Auto Rotating Wall Mount & Stand

Have you ever wanted to watch a vertical video meant for mobile on your Neo QLED or The Frame? With the Auto Rotating Wall Mount and Auto Rotating Stand,¹ you can watch content the way it’s intended. Simply press the rotation key on your remote control to automatically change the screen from horizontal to vertical mode for the perfect viewing experience. Not only can you enjoy various content in comfort, but you can also take advantage of mirroring and casting features in vertical mode.

Tilt Your Screen Any Way You Want to With the Full Motion Slim Wall Mount

The days when a TV is a device permanently fixed to the wall in one orientation are long gone. These days, you can harness the Full Motion Slim Wall Mount accessory to flexibly tilt your screen up, down, left or right to view your favourite content from any posture or angle that you desire. What’s more, the Full Motion Slim Wall Mount fits neatly against your wall, putting the wall and your screen in close contact for even more comfortable and immersive viewing experiences.

Tidy Up Messy TV Cables with the One Connect Box

If you manage to organise all of your messy TV cables, you’re already halfway done styling your TV room’s interior. The Neo QLED 8K neatly pulls together any living room, thanks to the One Connect Cable and the Slim One Connect box. With this accessory, you can quickly organise and eliminate all distracting cable clutter, streamlining your home decorating for a functional and beautiful space.

Turn Your TV into a Work of Art with Custom Bezels

The accessory that puts the finishing touch on Samsung’s The Frame, which features a picture frame trim that displays world-class art right on your wall, is a customisable bezel². You can swap between different colour options to get exactly the look you want in your home. You can choose from the Modern Flat Bezels that come in White, Teak and Brown for a clean and contemporary look, or you can go with one of the Bevelled Bezels that come in White and Brick Red for a more traditional design.³

In addition, the Slim Fit Wall Mount minimises the space between your TV and your wall to seamlessly blend into any room. If you don’t want to install your TV on a wall, The Floor Stand offers an alternative way to express your style and fit your space. As it is easy to install even in small areas, The Floor Stand is the perfect accessory to bring artistic flair into any home.

Express Your Personal Style with The Freestyle

A portable screen, a Bluetooth speaker and a mood light — The Freestyle does it all in style. You can add a splash of colour to The Freestyle’s neat, white design with a colourful range of rubber skins which feature Blossom Pink, Forest Green and Coyote Beige swatches. If you’re taking The Freestyle outdoors when going camping or attending a rooftop party, you can take advantage of the external battery accessory⁴, where you can conveniently carry the device with you in a sleek, compact case.

Reinvent Your Space with The Serif

With its practical design that looks like the letter “I,” The Serif itself can be a statement centrepiece of any room. Using the flat surface above the top bezel as a shelf, you can decorate The Serif based on your unique tastes and preferences. You can display several handmade or limited-edition items to add an accent to your home and make your space reflect you. Like any high-end shelf, the possibilities to elevate your room’s interior and grab your guests’ attention are endless.

Samsung Newsroom sat down with engineer Uihyun Kim and product planner Joonho Jeong to ask them eight questions about Samsung’s latest 8K TV, which pushes the boundaries of what is possible with a television. Read on to learn what they had to say.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 24 October, 2018 – Renowned global consumer technology media outlets are heaping praise on the newly-released Samsung QLED 8K TV, the Q900R for its picture quality, design and its 8K AI upscaling technology. Unveiled at IFA 2018, the Q900R QLED 8K has been well received by industry experts and insiders.

“With Real 8K Resolution features embedded with Samsung’s proprietary 8K AI Upscaling technology, we’re proud to be pushing the boundaries of TV technology for consumers around the world,” says Reginald Nxumalo, Director: Consumer Electronics, Samsung South Africa.

Trusted Reviews, a renowned technology news and reviews media website based in the United Kingdom, awarded the Q900R a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars noting that, “For a start, it’s the first ‘proper’ 8K TV. Secondly, it’s far and away the brightest TV ever released. Put these two innovations together, and you’ve got a set that can take you to picture quality places you’ve never been before.”

Pocket-Lint, a UK-based consumer technology news site, praised the processor, noting that it is “capable of processing huge volumes of data that helps to further improve the TV’s performance,” and the QLED 8K TV delivered “the best HDR (High Dynamic Range) experience that [they]’ve seen in any TV to date.”

HD Guru, a US-based technology review website, gave the Q900R an overall score of 5 out of 5 stating, “Even with Standard Dynamic Range Full HD content, colours were exceptionally bright and vibrant, where they were intended to be. The Samsung QLED 8K TV delivered the brightest pictures [they]’ve ever tested along with deep and rich black levels that registered nearly perfect black and clearly visible deep shadow detail.”

Forbes Magazine also expressed enthusiasm stating, “Even with so little native 8K to go on, though, it was instantly and staggeringly clear that all those extra pixels have a stunning and mesmerising impact on picture quality.”^[1] Another renowned technology news outlet, Digital Trends, echoed the sentiment, “Right now, there’s no better 85-inch TV on the planet.”

AVS Forum, one of the biggest audio and video review forum, awarded the Q900R its coveted “Top Choice 2018” distinction saying, “If you can afford it, and you can fit it in your home, then there is no question that this-the Samsung Q900-is the AVS Forum Top Choice for 2018. It’s an amazing display by any measure, and of course it’s also first when it comes to 8K TVs you can actually buy.”

^{[1]  From the Forbes Contributor Network and not necessarily the opinion of Forbes Media LLC. ©2018, Forbes Media LLC. Used with Permission}