▲(From left) The Samsung developers who built the integrated circuits in the company’s 8K TVs – Sangdeok Kim, Hansoo Seong, Junghyun Lim, and Yongjoo Song

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 9 November 2021 – With the continued evolution of high-definition televisions, the worlds displayed on our TV screens are becoming more realistic than ever. 8K TVs, which represent the new standard of premium television, maximize immersion by providing such vivid high definition that it is like users are beholding the scenes before their very eyes.

This incredibly sharp resolution was made possible by the enhancement of the semiconductors within the TVs. Capable of enabling the functions that allow sharper resolution, these solutions are the DTV SoC (Digital TV System on Chip), T-CON (Timing Controller), and DDI (Display Driver IC). Samsung Newsroom sat down with the developers of S6HD820 (which opened the door for 8nm¹ DTV SoC), S6TST21 (the industry’s first 8K 120Hz T-CON) and S6CT9BC (a DDI with a maximum speed of 8Gbps) to hear the story of the unseen innovation behind these solutions.

From DTV SoC to DDI – Sending Video Signals to Displays

Unlike in the past when televisions were only used for watching shows, the role of the TV has gradually expanded over time. These days, our TVs are becoming a platform that also allows us to play games, work out as well as do a broad range of other activities. As people come to expect a more diverse range of features from their TVs, a higher standard of premium features is also being brought to televisions.

TVs are output devices for content, making a high standard of picture quality crucial for user satisfaction. Digital signals generally undergo three stages before being displayed. First, the DTV SoC receives compressed data from broadcasts or the internet, extracts the data to convert it into video and sends the video and audio to the screen and speakers. The T-CON then receives the processed video data and sends it back to the DDI with careful timing to ensure smooth operation. Last, the digital signal sent to the DDI is converted to an analogue format and the video is displayed on the TV screen.

Simplifying DTV SoC with ‘One Chip’ and Enhancing NPU Function

The DTV SoC, which receives video data from a cable or set-top box, is also referred to as ‘the brain of the TV.’ Hansoo Seong, who is part of the DTV SoC development team, explains that, “The DTV SoC extracts the audio and video signals separately from the compressed input stream. It then provides the function that adjusts the audio and video data according to each scene being displayed.”

As picture quality has evolved from the 4K to the 8K standard, the role of the DTV SOC has become more important. Samsung’s developers were committed to finding a solution that would support 8K resolution while also reducing power usage at the same time. An NPU (Neural Processing Unit) was applied to the DTV SoC so that AI technology could be applied to the overall improvement of both picture quality and audio processing. This technology led to a much more precise display output. On top of this, the DTV SoC has been integrated with an upscaling IC² to improve power efficiency.

The biggest hurdle in creating the 8nm¹ DTV SoC, known as S6HD820, was the complex engineering required to integrate two ICs into one chip and the subsequent issue of overheating. “The better the NPU performance, the more the AI learning is reinforced, which leads to better TV performance. But this also makes semiconductors that much more complex to engineer and results in more severe overheating,” said Hansoo Seong. “We worked hard to find the right balance to prevent excessive overheating, and eventually succeeded in optimizing the solution.”

The Evolution of T-CON: From Two 60Hz Chips to a Single 120Hz Chip

The T-CON takes the video data from the DTV SoC and converts it according to the demands of the DDI. “The bigger the panel size and the higher the resolution, the more important the role of the T-CON becomes,” said Junghyun Lim, who participated in developing Samsung’s latest 8K T-CON. “The data transmission speed of the T-CON is also important when it comes to quickly transmitting high-resolution video data to the DDI.”

With the improvement from 4K to 8K, screen resolution increases by four times. Thus, the amount of data that needs to be sent also quadruples, which means the T-CON’s speed needs to be enhanced as well. The development team solved the overheating problem that accompanies rapidly rising speeds by applying a new node process and simplifying the chips. In addition, the two 8K 60Hz chips have been integrated to become one S6TST21.

Previous systems required four semiconductors in 8K TVs, including the DTV SoC, the upscaling IC² for 8K, and two T-CONs. The new system has reduced the total amount of semiconductors required to two by combining the DTV SOC and the upscaling IC² into one solution, and merging the two T-CONs into one. These changes have made it much easier to design the required boards.

DDI Integration Increases Speeds and Reduces Chip Count

The DDI is responsible for the final step before the video is displayed. This is where the digital data received from the T-CON is converted into the analogue signal that will be used as input for the display. Yongjoo Song, who participated in development of the DDI, said, “The DDI needs to deliver high analogue voltage to the panel quickly and precisely to allow the video data from the T-CON to be displayed accurately.”

To facilitate the increase in voltage, a new driver IC became necessary that could simultaneously handle higher voltages and prevent overheating. “Increasing the speed of the driver buffer was the most difficult challenge,” said Yongjoo Song. “After changing the circuit structure and layout in a range of ways to reduce the driver IC’s input/output latency, we were able to develop a new driver IC that could operate at faster speeds.”

The development of a DDI that operates at high speeds resulted in the number of DDIs being reduced by almost half and the number of relevant chips being reduced by dozens. This makes TV panels easier to construct.

The Secret to Tech Leadership: Development of Samsung’s Own Interface and Organic Semiconductor

From 4K to 8K TVs, the secret to Samsung’s technological leadership is its know-how and the high level of consumer trust it has accumulated over time. In addition, Samsung is constantly analysing market and technology trends to apply them to products, and Samsung’s own interface has played a huge role in these efforts. “The Samsung interface not only delivers speed but also utilizes the company’s semiconductor driver technologies,” said Sangdeok Kim. “By utilizing its own interface, Samsung was able to make the 8K TV DDI based on the industry’s fastest interface.”

Another one of Samsung’s unique advantages is that it is developing the DTV SoC, T-CON and DDI in tandem with one another. This offers a big advantage, as it allows better integration and compatibility among the three components that must work together.

The developers from Samsung’s S.LSI Business make no secret of their excitement regarding 8K TV technology and the future of semiconductors. “When I first started working in this area, I was making semiconductors for FHD-resolution TVs. I remember feeling very proud when the products entered mass production,” related Yongjoo Song. “Already, TV resolutions have surpassed 4K to reach the 8K standard, and TV screens continue to get bigger and bigger. With larger high-resolution TVs being introduced to the market, semiconductors must be equipped to perform more complex functions, which adds to the challenges in developing them. But overcoming those challenges will remain the ever-present goal for developers like us.”

¹ nm: nanometer

² Upscaling IC: A semiconductor that converts low-resolution videos into high resolution (converts 2K and 4K videos into 8K)

]]> https://news.samsung.com/za/samsungs-s-lsi-developers-on-the-semiconductors-that-support-ultra-high-definition-8k-tv-technology?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=direct Wed, 01 Sep 2021 06:59:27 +0000 https://bit.ly/3t1epiF (From left) The Samsung developers who built the integrated circuits in the company’s 8K TVs – Sangdeok Kim, Hansoo Seong, Junghyun Lim, and Yongjoo Song

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 01 September 2021 – With the continued evolution of high-definition televisions, the worlds displayed on our TV screens are becoming more realistic than ever. 8K TVs, which represent the new standard of premium television, maximize immersion by providing such vivid high definition that it is like users are beholding the scenes before their very eyes.

This incredibly sharp resolution was made possible by the enhancement of the semiconductors within the TVs. Capable of enabling the functions that allow sharper resolution, these solutions are the DTV SoC (Digital TV System on Chip), T-CON (Timing Controller), and DDI (Display Driver IC). Samsung Newsroom sat down with the developers of S6HD820 (which opened the door for 8nm¹ DTV SoC), S6TST21 (the industry’s first 8K 120Hz T-CON) and S6CT9BC (a DDI with a maximum speed of 8Gbps) to hear the story of the unseen innovation behind these solutions.

From DTV SoC to DDI – Sending Video Signals to Displays

Unlike in the past when televisions were only used for watching shows, the role of the TV has gradually expanded over time. These days, our TVs are becoming a platform that also allows us to play games, work out as well as do a broad range of other activities. As people come to expect a more diverse range of features from their TVs, a higher standard of premium features is also being brought to televisions.

TVs are output devices for content, making a high standard of picture quality crucial for user satisfaction. Digital signals generally undergo three stages before being displayed. First, the DTV SoC receives compressed data from broadcasts or the internet, extracts the data to convert it into video and sends the video and audio to the screen and speakers. The T-CON then receives the processed video data and sends it back to the DDI with careful timing to ensure smooth operation. Last, the digital signal sent to the DDI is converted to an analogue format and the video is displayed on the TV screen.

Simplifying DTV SoC with ‘One Chip’ and Enhancing NPU Function

The DTV SoC, which receives video data from a cable or set-top box, is also referred to as ‘the brain of the TV.’ Hansoo Seong, who is part of the DTV SoC development team, explains that, “The DTV SoC extracts the audio and video signals separately from the compressed input stream. It then provides the function that adjusts the audio and video data according to each scene being displayed.”

As picture quality has evolved from the 4K to the 8K standard, the role of the DTV SOC has become more important. Samsung’s developers were committed to finding a solution that would support 8K resolution while also reducing power usage at the same time. An NPU (Neural Processing Unit) was applied to the DTV SoC so that AI technology could be applied to the overall improvement of both picture quality and audio processing. This technology led to a much more precise display output. On top of this, the DTV SoC has been integrated with an upscaling IC² to improve power efficiency.

The biggest hurdle in creating the 8nm¹ DTV SoC, known as S6HD820, was the complex engineering required to integrate two ICs into one chip and the subsequent issue of overheating. “The better the NPU performance, the more the AI learning is reinforced, which leads to better TV performance. But this also makes semiconductors that much more complex to engineer and results in more severe overheating,” said Hansoo Seong. “We worked hard to find the right balance to prevent excessive overheating, and eventually succeeded in optimizing the solution.”

The Evolution of T-CON: From Two 60Hz Chips to a Single 120Hz Chip

The T-CON takes the video data from the DTV SoC and converts it according to the demands of the DDI. “The bigger the panel size and the higher the resolution, the more important the role of the T-CON becomes,” said Junghyun Lim, who participated in developing Samsung’s latest 8K T-CON. “The data transmission speed of the T-CON is also important when it comes to quickly transmitting high-resolution video data to the DDI.”

With the improvement from 4K to 8K, screen resolution increases by four times. Thus, the amount of data that needs to be sent also quadruples, which means the T-CON’s speed needs to be enhanced as well. The development team solved the overheating problem that accompanies rapidly rising speeds by applying a new node process and simplifying the chips. In addition, the two 8K 60Hz chips have been integrated to become one S6TST21.

Previous systems required four semiconductors in 8K TVs, including the DTV SoC, the upscaling IC² for 8K, and two T-CONs. The new system has reduced the total amount of semiconductors required to two by combining the DTV SOC and the upscaling IC² into one solution, and merging the two T-CONs into one. These changes have made it much easier to design the required boards.

DDI Integration Increases Speeds and Reduces Chip Count

The DDI is responsible for the final step before the video is displayed. This is where the digital data received from the T-CON is converted into the analogue signal that will be used as input for the display. Yongjoo Song, who participated in development of the DDI, said, “The DDI needs to deliver high analogue voltage to the panel quickly and precisely to allow the video data from the T-CON to be displayed accurately.”

To facilitate the increase in voltage, a new driver IC became necessary that could simultaneously handle higher voltages and prevent overheating. “Increasing the speed of the driver buffer was the most difficult challenge,” said Yongjoo Song. “After changing the circuit structure and layout in a range of ways to reduce the driver IC’s input/output latency, we were able to develop a new driver IC that could operate at faster speeds.”

The development of a DDI that operates at high speeds resulted in the number of DDIs being reduced by almost half and the number of relevant chips being reduced by dozens. This makes TV panels easier to construct.

The Secret to Tech Leadership: Development of Samsung’s Own Interface and Organic Semiconductor

From 4K to 8K TVs, the secret to Samsung’s technological leadership is its know-how and the high level of consumer trust it has accumulated over time. In addition, Samsung is constantly analysing market and technology trends to apply them to products, and Samsung’s own interface has played a huge role in these efforts. “The Samsung interface not only delivers speed but also utilizes the company’s semiconductor driver technologies,” said Sangdeok Kim. “By utilizing its own interface, Samsung was able to make the 8K TV DDI based on the industry’s fastest interface.”

Another one of Samsung’s unique advantages is that it is developing the DTV SoC, T-CON and DDI in tandem with one another. This offers a big advantage, as it allows better integration and compatibility among the three components that must work together.

The developers from Samsung’s S.LSI Business make no secret of their excitement regarding 8K TV technology and the future of semiconductors. “When I first started working in this area, I was making semiconductors for FHD-resolution TVs. I remember feeling very proud when the products entered mass production,” related Yongjoo Song. “Already, TV resolutions have surpassed 4K to reach the 8K standard, and TV screens continue to get bigger and bigger. With larger high-resolution TVs being introduced to the market, semiconductors must be equipped to perform more complex functions, which adds to the challenges in developing them. But overcoming those challenges will remain the ever-present goal for developers like us.”

¹ nm: nanometer

² Upscaling IC: A semiconductor that converts low-resolution videos into high resolution (converts 2K and 4K videos into 8K)

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 22 September, 2020 – The global market for large screen televisions is on a surge. According to global market research firm Omdia, global shipments of TVs with displays over 75-inches are expected to increase by 17% compared to 2019 and 8K TVs are set to increase by 110% this year as well. Given the market demands, Samsung is doubling down on its efforts to give consumers large screen TVs that not only offer the best picture quality but also the best sound experiences.

At the heart of that is Samsung’s AI Quantum Processor.

The AI Quantum Processor is a high-performing chip developed using Samsung’s proprietary technologies that can process complex algorithms quickly using machine learning-based upscaling. That gives consumers the ability to stream 8K content in real-time paired with dynamic, location-based acoustics. Samsung is peeling back the secrets of the AI Quantum Processor to share on how it brings these experiences together to get better resolution, better sound and better picture integrity.

One of the leading questions consumers continue to ask about large screen TVs is how to watch ultra HD content in 8K resolution given that it isn’t widely available yet. That’s where Samsung’s AI upscaling technology comes in.

Today, the technology transforms not only 4K content into 8K, but it also works for lower-resolution SD, HD and FHD-quality content as well. The AI Quantum Processor 8K combines the advantages of existing machine learning capabilities with new deep learning technologies to analyse and deliver content at some of the most granular levels possible.

This hybrid approach helps to remove unnecessary noise and creates life-like textures and smooth edges on up-scaled 8K content that only Samsung can deliver. It also adjusts content brightness and darkness levels according to the light and living room conditions the display is set up in.

AI Quantum Sound for the Most Suitable Audio Experiences

Adding a truly effective audio experience to high-quality picture quality serves to bring about an even deeper sense of immersion to viewers. Samsung’s AI Quantum Sound, bolstered by artificial intelligence, provides a listening experience similar to that of a movie theatre right in your living room.

Samsung’s new innovative sound technology Object Tracking Sound+ follows movement on-screen to match the direction of the sound to the action. The technology recognized and analyses the recorded audio synced to the content in real-time and evenly distributes the audio tracks to the six speakers embedded in the TV. And due in part to the Active Voice Amplifier (AVA), users will never miss a word of dialogue, regardless of what is happening around the TV. The feature monitors the sound environment so that if there is noise louder than the TV’s audio, it will increase the volume of just the dialogue audio so as not to overwhelm users while ensuring no word goes unheard. Also, sound will be delivered seamlessly thanks to real-time deep learning audio separation technology, high-performance NPU (Neural Processing Unit).

AI Streaming for Minimal Data Loss

Thanks to the widespread use of the Over the Top (OTT) streaming services, more and more users are taking advantage of their large screen TVs and stream 8K content. However, existing network infrastructures cannot always guarantee image quality that meets users’ high-resolution expectations. This is why at the Samsung Developers’ Conference in 2019, Samsung introduced its AI Scalenet technology, designed to overcome these infrastructure limitations and support effective 8K streaming and low-latency livestreaming.

AI Scalenet is a CES 2020 Innovation Award-winning AI codec technology that generates resolutions four times higher than conventional technologies without any change to the network infrastructure. It minimises the data loss that may occur during the compression and playing of videos through deep learning technologies, meaning users can enjoy 8K-quality content regardless of their network infrastructure. Even during peak usage, AI Scalenet dramatically improves image quality and content speed according to the network status and reduces picture breaking and ambient noise.

These days, more content than ever can be enjoyed on our TVs, meaning that the expectation for immersive viewing experiences in the home has increased, too. Samsung plans to continue to use a range of innovative technologies, starting with artificial intelligence, to bring the best experience 8K content and audio experiences to living rooms across the world.

Camera: Realise Your Cinematic Vision

Capturing jaw-dropping footage just got easier. Pro Video mode lets you produce high-fidelity videos with just the Galaxy S20 series alone.

• If you want to give your videos a cinematic look, all you need to do is shoot in 8K with 24fps frame rate. With the option to record footage in 21:9 aspect ratio, you can capture more of your experiences.

• To produce pro-grade videos, audio quality is as important as the visuals. Pro Video mode on the Galaxy S20 series gives you the ability to control the smartphone’s mic direction, so you can pick up specific sounds when you shoot. When paired with the Galaxy Buds line-up, you can use the earbuds as a pro-style lavalier microphone to minimise background noise and record crystal-clear audio.

Samsung Notes: Experience Next-Level Productivity

The latest Galaxy S20 update is bringing even more powerful features to Samsung Notes to help you get more done faster.

• With Audio Bookmark, you can synchronise your notes with audio recordings of lectures or meetings. When you review your notes, you can simply select a section of what you wrote to playback the corresponding audio. Alternatively, you can scroll through audio recordings to see the matching notes.

• The updated Samsung Notes also lets you import and write on PDF files, making it simpler for you to review and revise documents on-the-go.

• When you are working with multiple devices, Samsung Notes’ Auto save & sync function keeps you in the flow by letting you quickly access notes across your Galaxy S20, tablet, and PC. With new template and background colour options available, as well as the ability to add handwritten text to typed documents, Samsung Notes can help you work more efficiently, no matter your style.

Samsung DeX: A Smarter Way to Multitask

• When it comes to multitasking, two screens are better than one. By tapping on the Samsung DeX icon in the quick panel, you can now connect your Galaxy S20 to a Smart TV wirelessly and instantly enjoy more space to work and play.2

• Samsung DeX also lets you use the Galaxy S20 as a touchpad to control the second display with multi-finger gestures. Simply swipe up with three fingers to see recently opened apps, down to return to home screen, or left or right to switch between apps.

Seamless Connectivity and More

• Enjoy advanced Wi-Fi connectivity with the latest Galaxy S20 update. You can easily share the password of the Wi-Fi you are connected to with nearby Galaxy devices that are in your contact list. The new Wi-Fi feature will also show you the speed of the connections in your surroundings, so you can quickly find the one that suits your needs.

• With the updated Reminder app, you can pre-set time and location for upcoming meetings and tasks.

1 Updates available on following devices: Galaxy S20 Ultra, S20 Ultra, S20+, S20+, S20, S20/S10, S10+, S10, S10e, S10 Lite, S9, S9+/Note10+, Note10+, Note10, Note10, Note10 Lite, Note9, Fold. For other Galaxy devices, Samsung is committed to providing the latest update until the hardware specifications allow us to provide the optimised mobile experience for our users. Supported features may vary by devices.

2 Samsung DeX wireless connection is available on smart TVs that support Phone Screen mirroring only. For the optimal experience, use the feature with Samsung Smart TVs launched 2019 or later.

• Technology has changed how we view the world
• Television has brought the world infinitely closer
• We can now experience what we never could before

Science made many rapid strides in the 20th century. Television is one of the most dramatic ways it has done so. The whole world now lives in our homes, from politics, science, sports, major moments in history – every facet of the planet and its people are available to us instantly. Through television, we have even broken down our perceptions of people, countries and stereotypes and revealed the commonality between us all. It has made the planet a global village. From grainy black and white visuals to crystal clear 8K the world’s eyes have opened wider and wider and impacted how we view our entire universe.

It’s Brought the World Closer

We now know more about the culture, geography, weather and everyday life of foreign lands. Faraway places with strange sounding names are more familiar to ordinary people. Television has in fact broken through the barriers of thousands of languages to communicate humanity’s shared language of love, family, friendship and the pursuit of happiness.

It’s Enriches Our Souls

The medium has however also showcased our common flaws such as greed, jealousy and betrayal. This is reflected in reality shows that feature the lives of everyday people, in dramas we just can’t get enough of. Perhaps they allow us to hide, or even explore our own fears and weaknesses. Either way, there are millions of people glued to the next reality TV star or family.

It Is One of the Greatest Teachers Ever

Whether you’re young or old, there are a multitude of programmes designed to educate us about the natural world, sciences, history, biology and geography. In many ways, it has brought subjects taught in school to life in a way that’s completely enthralling – engaging all the senses. On ground-breaking TV’s such as Samsung 8K QLED TV, you can see even more than the human eyes can see. It’s immersive viewing that puts the classroom in incredible places like the middle of the African Savanah during a stampede, deep within an erupting volcano bursting with heat and light or upon a cloud blissfully drifting through the air above a city.

“With innovative technology such as Samsung 8K QLED TV every scene is amazingly vivid and real. It’s designed for those who want the best combination of picture quality, smart TV capabilities and design – a way to bring the world and people together in a way we never could before, “says Nithia Pillay, Director of Consumer Electronics at Samsung South Africa.

Ultimately, television allows us to connect with diverse people, travel to fascinating places, get a front row view of mesmerizing concerts, astounding world events and gain incredible human insights – all from the comfort of our couch. It’s a world worth watching.

TV viewing has changed forever with Samsung’s launch of the revolutionary 8K range which delivers a ground-breaking viewing experience and unprecedented value.

Experience what you never have before

With Samsung 8K QLED, every scene is amazingly vivid and real – it’s like watching 3D without the glasses. With more colours than the human eye can see, infinite details and optimised audio lets you see, feel and hear as the scene unfolds in front of you.

You can upscale what you’re watching

8K is still new technology but the 8K QLED display can convert what you watching, depending on the source content, into an enhanced version with improved details and sharpened definition. This means more crystal clear and precise images with reduced noise and sharpened definition. It’s like an instant upgrade of everything you’ve seen before.

Enjoy TV as it should be

Together with 8K resolution, Samsung’s HDR technology delivers maximum brightness and adjusts the scenes to the lighting conditions in the room. And, with fewer visible pixels, you’ll enjoy the feeling of pure immersion – even when you’re closer to the screen. This means everyone in the room has the same incredible experience at the same time.

Go on an audio journey

The QLED range automatically optimises the sound allowing you to hear a pin drop in a movie and even feel the massive roar of a crowd during the big game.

You can take control in innovative ways

Using the Voice Command feature on 2019 QLEDs, you can now easily access the content you want, and search for content based on your viewing habits. In order to provide even more entertainment options, it offers the all-new Apple TV app, this allows you access to iTunes movies and TV shows, and also supports Airplay2. Additionally, it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant devices.

*Upscaling is input source dependent. Some third party standards may require additional device/adapter purchase.

SOURCE: SA Garden and Home

• QLED Has Taken On Competing Technology in A Big Way.
• 8K – Set to Change How We Experience Reality.
• The Content Experience Has Given Consumers More Choice.
• How Samsung is Different.

Samsung has been a pioneer in TV design for 50 years. Over that time, Samsung has researched what people love most about TV – the way it brings friends and families together and the many details that amplifies the viewing experience. This knowledge has led to innovation that has transformed how people watch TV and is one of the reasons it has been global number 1 for the 13 years. The 2019 QLED line-up builds on this legacy in a big way.

“Pictures that are as breath-taking as they are ground-breaking” is how Forbes Magazine described the Samsung QLED TV it reviewed in February this year. This is a sentiment that has been echoed by reviewers around the world. TechRader addressed the QLED versus OLED debate by citing the Samsung 65Q90R as ‘’Capable of competing with and often surpassing even the best OLED’s.” Powered by Samsung’s patented Quantum Processor, the 2019 QLED TV line-up features more screen size options, stunning picture quality enhancements, dazzling colours from every angle, exciting new design elements and intuitive smart TV upgrades.

QLED is Leading the Way

QLED TVs use quantum dots to enhance performance, delivering better brightness and a wider colour spectrum. That’s because the dots act like a filter when applied on top of an LED backlight. This produces a light purer than an LED can provide. Beyond TV viewing, QLED is also the best for gaming as it has the fastest refresh times, which could be the difference between victory and losing your last lifeline. QLED TVs are also far brighter than current OLED TVs. For example, the 65” Q90 can push out a peak measured light output (on a white HDR window filling 10% of the screen) of 2050 nits. That’s seriously impressive.

QLED Beats the Burn

And the innovation doesn’t stop at just the quality of the overall picture but on its impressive performance in another crucial area that requires everyone’s attention. Since QLED TVs don’t use organic elements, they are essentially immune to screen burn-in. This is a display issue in which certain facets of an image shown on a TV screen, such as a channel logo are either not shown properly, or fragments of that image remain on the screen. It then appears longer, as though it is embedded onto the display. This has been cited as one of the crucial flaws of OLED TV display technology. In fact, a quick search for “OLED Burn-in” on YouTube shows the high volume of criticism from those who have experienced the issue first-hand, as well as a number of burn-in tests, which compare Samsung’s QLED TV and OLED TV to demonstrate how the two displays differ on this very critical concern. Clearly, Samsung has mastered an area that can impact viewing in a big way.

8K Pushes the Boundaries of Possibility

Samsung has declared 2019 the year of the ‘ultra-high definition 8K era’. With Samsung 8K QLED every scene is amazingly vivid and real. It’s like 3D without the glasses. With more colours than the human eye can see, infinite details and optimised audio you see, feel and hear as if the scene has come to life in front of you. Of course, because 8K is still new technology, Samsung’s intelligent Quantum Processor 8K can convert what you watching, depending on the source content, into an enhanced version with improved details and sharpened definition. This means more crystal clear and precise images with reduced noise and sharpened definition. It’s like an instant upgrade of everything you’ve seen before. Together with 8K resolution, Samsung’s HDR technology delivers maximum brightness to the scenes’ settings and conditions in the room you’re watching in. And with fewer visible pixels, you enjoy the feeling of pure immersion—even when you’re closer to the TV. This means everyone in the room has the same incredible experience at the same time.

Consumers Now Have Access to More Content Than Ever

As announced at CES 2019, Samsung has taken the user experience to the next level by offering iTunes Movies and TV Shows and Apple AirPlay 2 support on 2019 Samsung Smart TV models. In an industry first, a new iTunes Movies and TV Shows app is available on the QLED range. It works seamlessly with Samsung’s Smart TV Services, the new Voice Command and Search, to create a consistent experience across Samsung’s platform. With AirPlay 2 support, Samsung customers will be able to effortlessly play videos, photos, music, podcasts and more from Apple devices directly to Samsung Smart TVs, including QLED 4K and 8K TVs as well as other Samsung UHD and HD models. Additionally, it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Our 2019 QLED line is designed for users who want the best combination of picture quality, smart TV capabilities and design. This year’s line-up represents our largest screen size offering ever. It brings together innovative feature enhancements and exciting content and service partnerships to deliver a truly ground-breaking viewing experience and unprecedented value.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 23 April 2019 –  Samsung announced today that its 2019 TV line, including new QLED 4K and 8K models, are available at select retailers nationwide from May. Powered by Samsung’s proprietary Quantum Processor, the 2019 QLED TV line-up features more screen size options, stunning picture quality enhancements, dazzling colours from every angle, exciting new design elements and intuitive smart TV upgrades.

“Our 2019 QLED line is designed for users who want the best combination of picture quality, smart TV capabilities and design,” said Reginald Nxumalo, Director of Consumer Electronics at Samsung South Africa. “This year’s line-up represents our largest screen size offering ever. It brings together innovative feature enhancements and exciting content and service partnerships to deliver a truly ground-breaking viewing experience and unprecedented value.”

A More Pristine Picture

The 2019 Q80 and Q90 feature ‘Ultra Viewing Angle’ technology, which restructures the TV’s panels so the backlight passes through the panel with lights evenly onto the screen. Engineered to reduce glare and enhance colour, Ultra Viewing Angle provides a vibrant picture regardless of the viewing position. In addition, Q70, Q80, and Q90 models offer Direct Full Array technology that uses a panel featuring concentrated zones of precision-controlled LEDs. These LEDs adjust automatically to display deeper blacks and purer whites, delivering stunning images with pristine contrast.

A More Intelligent Quantum Processor

Q900 Series 8K TVs incorporate Samsung’s proprietary Quantum Processor 8K, which up-scales lower resolution content to stunningly crisp 8K while also allowing for playback of native 8K content. This year’s models also utilise the Quantum Processor 8K that optimises audio and video to the specific content on the screen. It can create an even more detailed sound experience by tailoring the audio settings to the specific layout of the room.

Samsung’s new QLED 4K models also feature their own proprietary Quantum Processor 4K, which can use AI upscaling to deliver improved brightness, picture quality and sound optimised for each scene.

As announced at CES 2019, Samsung will take the user experience to the next level by offering iTunes Movies and TV Shows and Apple AirPlay 2 support on 2019 Samsung Smart TV models. Support on 2018 Samsung Smart TVs will be made available via firmware update. In an industry first, a new iTunes Movies and TV Shows app will debut on Samsung Smart TVs in more than 100 countries. AirPlay 2 support will be available soon on Samsung Smart TVs in 190 countries worldwide.

Using the new iTunes Movies and TV Shows app on Samsung Smart TVs, Samsung customers can access their existing iTunes library and browse the iTunes Store to buy or rent from a selection of hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes — including the largest selection of 4K HDR movies. iTunes Movies and TV Shows will work seamlessly with Samsung’s Smart TV Services, the new Voice Command and Search, to create a consistent experience across Samsung’s platform. With AirPlay 2 support, Samsung customers will be able to effortlessly play videos, photos, music, podcasts and more from Apple devices directly to Samsung Smart TVs, including QLED 4K and 8K TVs as well as other Samsung UHD and HD models.

A More Convenient Content Experience

2019 Samsung Smart TVs offer even more ways for users to discover and watch content. It features an improved AI algorithm that leverages a user’s subscription services, favourite content, and TV viewing habits to offer customised recommendations about what to watch. Users will be able to leverage the new Voice Command on 2019 QLED TVs and soon use Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant to easily control their TVs and access their content through voice commands. They can quickly and easily navigate their content with Samsung’s OneRemote. And with the addition of Far Field Voice Capability on the OneRemote, users can use voice commands to control their TV even if they are across the room from their remote.

A More Immersive Gaming Experience

Real Game Enhancer optimises the gaming experience through a unique set of gaming features. This year, Real Game Enhancer features AMD Radeon Freesync variable refresh rate technology, which helps prevent tearing and stuttering, as well as Game Motion Plus, which removes motion blur and judder. Real Game Enhancer combines these technical innovations with Auto Game Mode, which minimises input lag on compatible devices. It also includes AI-based audio and video enhancements that optimise the settings to delivering cinematic sound and smooth, lifelike visuals that can remain clear even during bright and dark scenes. Ambient Mode complements any living space by turning a blank screen into a decorative or informational display when the TV is not in active use.  It can display artistic content like photos and works of art. This year, Ambient Mode offers users an even greater variety of artistic and decorative pieces for the home, through new decorative patterns, photos, and artwork and mattes, as well as new ways to display information on the TV.

A More Comprehensive Line-up

Samsung’s QLED line-up offers 4K and 8K models in a range of sizes from 55” to 98” to suit the needs of every home and every lifestyle.

For a limited period, from 24 April to 5 May 2019, you will receive a Samsung soundbar with every 2019 QLED TV purchase. This offer will be available from your nearest participating retailer. All QLED purchases come with Samsung Signature Service which includes delivery and installation. Stock is limited. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information on Samsung’s 2019 QLED TV line-up, please visit SSA Newsroom

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}

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 04 July 2018 – Samsung Electronics recently hosted its second annual QLED and Advanced Displays Summit at The London West Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The Summit offered insights into Samsung’s plans for quantum dot (QLED) displays, activities surrounding its full 8K ecosystem, the brand’s ambitions of bringing MicroLED technology to consumers and its efforts in integrating HDR into cinemas.

Abhijeet Solat, Samsung Display’s technical sales manager, presented the 8K market trends at QLED & Advanced Display Summit, held in Los Angeles on June 27, 2018.

“Samsung has built a reputation for its history of innovation and ground-breaking developments in the TV industry,” said Jongsuk Chu, Senior Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re committed to maintaining that trend by bringing advancements of 8K and MicroLED TV technology to the consumers and continuing our investment in enhancing the viewing experience.”

The QLED and Advanced Displays Summit was co-hosted by Samsung and Insight Media, an advanced display consultant focusing on the display industry. During the event, Samsung demonstrated enhancements, from HDR10+ mastering workflows to Automatic Colour Calibration and no burn-in on its 2018 QLED TVs, showcasing its leadership in the TV display industry.

Participants, including industry experts and influencers, attended to experience live demonstrations and spark dialogue about the current state and challenges of TV technologies. Above all, the QLED TV demos highlighted Samsung’s efforts in pioneering HDR capability by applying next-generation enhancements for the benefit of consumers.

Justin Hume, Chief Marketing Officer of Samsung South Africa, says, “We are already leading the innovation trail in the television space and there’s so much more still to come.”

The event featured a number of prominent experts in the display industry – ranging from academia experts in the MicroLED technology sector and consultants specialising in HDR cinema integration to renowned professionals in display and mastering tool industry. Speakers and influencers from the following organisations also attended to discuss TV technology-related topics that included:

• 8K Ecosystem: Insight Media, Panavision, Samsung Display Company and Display Supply Chain Consultants.
• Quantum Dots: Palomaki Consulting, Nanosys, Nanoco and Samsung Advanced Research Institute.
• Display and Mastering Tools: FF Pictures, Samsung Research America, Portrait Displays and ColorFront.
• HDR Cinema: Samsung Research America, LightView and MKPE Consulting.
• MicroLEDs: Fuzhou University, Samsung Electronics, Tesoro Scientific, PlayNitride, Sungkyunkwan University, JBD, Lumiode and N-Tech Research.

Martin Fishman, CEO of SpectraCal, described the Automatic Color Calibration program (left) and Florian Friedrich of FF Pictures explained the HDR10+ mastering workflows (right) at the demonstration of the summit.

For more information about Samsung’s QLED TVs and the QLED & Advanced Display Summit, including speakers and sessions, please visit: www.displaysummit.com/2018-qled-and-advanced-display-summit-at-hollywood.