TV trends for 2016: 8K models expected soon, OLED TVs to be in fashion

Ultra High Definition TV is undoubtedly only in its early stages. With 4K TVs just starting to become commonplace and their prices beginning to drop, the first 8K models are expected in stores soon. Faced with this relentless quest for pixels, some manufacturers are also taking a gamble on OLED (organic light-emitting diodes) as a way of offering optimized image quality.

8K TVs will soon be in stores

In the fall of 2015, Sharp launched its first 8K TV in Japan (reference: LV-85001) with a record resolution of 7,680 x 4,320 pixels. This model's price tag is 16 million yen (around 120,000 euros). The 85-inch screen has four HDMI connectors, a contrast ratio of 100,000:1 and 176 degree viewing angles. Although no programs are available yet in this format, the trend is likely to gather momentum, and various models are expected to be premiered at CES 2016 in Las Vegas in January. Up until now, only Samsung and LG have also unveiled 8K TV prototypes, without putting them on the market. An 8K TV's resolution is 16 times greater than that of a classic Full HD TV (1,920 x 1,080 pixels).

The next step up might come via smartphones, as Samsung is reportedly working on a record 11K phone display. It is thought that the attraction of a display with such high resolution (roughly 11,264 х 6,336 pixels) is to create a 3D effect, on a smartphone or TV, without the need for 3D glasses. Such a level of definition would, for example, open our eyes to landforms and previously unseen details.

The OLED gamble

In addition to the exponential increase in screen pixel numbers, 2016 could be a pivotal year for the use of OLED (organic light-emitting diode) screens. This technology, which is not new, has many advantages, starting with the increased levels of black and high contrast ratio, with each pixel being able to be shut off. OLED also provides greater luminosity than a conventional LCD screen. OLED screens can be extremely thin (just a few millimeters), making it possible to create relatively flexible screens. On the other hand, the materials used can deteriorate more quickly and are more sensitive to moisture.

LG is a pioneer in this field, offering several OLED TVs with flat or curved screens in Ultra HD. Some manufacturers, such as Panasonic, are following the trend while others, such as Samsung and Sony, are more reticent, although they had also ventured into this area a few years ago.