Trends in television technology for the coming years – what is worth knowing?
Televisions have been one of the key elements of our home furnishings for decades. However, in recent years, technology has been developing at a dizzying pace, changing the way we consume multimedia content. In this article, we will analyze the most important trends in television technology that are shaping the market and indicating what we can expect in the coming years.
1. Display Technology – from OLED to MicroLED
OLED remains on top, but with challenges
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) is a technology that has revolutionized the television market, offering excellent contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant colors. However, OLED technology has its limitations, such as pixel burn-in and relatively high production costs.
In the coming years, manufacturers such as LG, Sony, and Samsung will invest in improving OLED, including:
- QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) – a hybrid of OLED and quantum dot technology that increases brightness and durability.
- Super OLED – versions with even better color calibration and longer lifespan.
MicroLED – the future of premium?
MicroLED is a technology that has the potential to replace OLED in the premium segment. With microscopic LEDs that emit their own light, MicroLED offers infinite contrast, high brightness, and no risk of pixel burn-in. The biggest challenges for this technology currently are:
- High production costs.
- Difficulties with mass scalability.
As production costs decrease, MicroLED will become more accessible, especially in larger screen sizes above 75 inches.
Mini-LED – a compromise between quality and price
Mini-LED is a technology that serves as a bridge between LCD and OLED/MicroLED. By using thousands of small LEDs as backlighting, Mini-LED televisions offer better contrast and greater brightness than traditional LCDs. Brands such as TCL, Samsung, and LG are already investing in the development of this technology.
2. Screen Resolution – from 4K to 8K and beyond
4K – the gold standard
Although 4K is already widely available, it remains the most popular choice for most consumers. The drop in prices of 4K televisions and the increasing amount of content in this resolution mean that this technology will dominate for several more years.
8K – a future full of challenges
8K televisions offer four times the pixels of 4K, resulting in extraordinary image sharpness. However, the adoption of this technology faces obstacles such as:
- Lack of native 8K content.
- High purchase costs.
- Data transmission bandwidth issues.
Nonetheless, manufacturers such as Samsung and Sony are investing in image upscaling using artificial intelligence, which allows for improved image quality from lower resolutions.
3. Smart TVs – smarter than ever
Artificial intelligence in televisions
AI in televisions is a trend that is gaining significance. Intelligent algorithms enable:
- Automatic adjustment of brightness and contrast to lighting conditions.
- Better image upscaling.
- Content personalization based on user preferences.
Integration with IoT
Televisions are increasingly becoming a central element of the smart home, working with other devices within the Internet of Things (IoT). The ability to control lights, thermostats, or security cameras via the television is a feature that attracts consumer attention.
Voice assistants
Televisions equipped with voice assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Bixby are gaining popularity. This allows for device operation without the need for a remote control.
4. Development of streaming and content
8K streaming
Streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime will heavily invest in the development of 8K content. Thanks to better codecs like AV1, high-quality streaming will become more accessible.
Interactive content
A novelty is interactive movies and series, where the viewer can influence the plot (e.g., 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch'). In the future, televisions will be better suited to handle such content.
5. Gaming on televisions – a new era of entertainment
HDMI 2.1 and VRR
Televisions with HDMI 2.1 supporting variable refresh rate (VRR) and low input lag are becoming essential for console gamers.
Cloud Gaming
Services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and PlayStation Now allow for cloud gaming without the need for a console. Integrating these platforms into televisions opens new possibilities for gamers.
6. Ecology and sustainability
Energy efficiency
Future televisions will be more energy-efficient due to the use of modern panels and more efficient processors.
Recycling and eco-friendly materials
Manufacturers such as Samsung and Philips are introducing televisions made from recycled materials and easy to disassemble, facilitating their disposal.
7. Innovative formats and design
Foldable and rollable televisions
LG and Samsung are bringing to market televisions with flexible screens that can be rolled or folded. These innovations allow for space-saving and introduce new interior design possibilities.
Ultra-thin televisions and wall mounting
The pursuit of minimalist design is making televisions thinner and more aesthetically pleasing. Wall-mounted models look like works of art.
8. Audio – sound at a new level
Dolby Atmos technology
Future televisions will standardly support Dolby Atmos surround sound, providing immersive experiences while watching movies.
Built-in soundbars
Manufacturers are introducing televisions with built-in soundbars, eliminating the need to purchase separate equipment.
Summary
The coming years in television technology promise to be incredibly exciting. From the development of new display technologies such as MicroLED and Mini-LED, through integration with AI and IoT, to innovative formats and sustainability – televisions are becoming increasingly advanced, offering exceptional visual and audio experiences.
For consumers, this means greater choice and the ability to tailor technology to their needs. At the same time, it is worth keeping an eye on market developments to benefit from the latest achievements.