Introduction
The television industry is witnessing significant shifts as new technologies emerge, particularly with the introduction of Primary RGB Tandem OLED displays. This development is poised to challenge the previously dominant QD-OLED technology, which combined quantum dot technology with OLED to produce superior color and brightness. As of early 2025, the landscape of display technology is evolving, suggesting that QD-OLED may soon be overshadowed by its newer counterparts.
The Rise of QD-OLED Technology
Three years ago, QD-OLED TVs, such as Samsung's S95B and Sony's A95K, made a dramatic entrance into the market, merging the advantages of quantum dots with OLED technology. This combination resulted in enhanced color volume and brightness levels that rivaled those of Mini-LED TVs, marking a significant leap in display quality. However, the current trends indicate that the industry is preparing to transition away from QD-OLED technology as newer innovations gain traction.
LG's Response: Micro Lens Array Technology
While Samsung and Sony continued to promote QD-OLED displays, LG took a different approach by introducing Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology. This innovation allowed LG's OLED TVs, like the LG G4, to achieve higher brightness levels without relying on panels from Samsung Display. Although MLA technology does not match the color purity of QD-OLEDs, it has proven effective enough to compete with flagship models from both Samsung and Sony.
The Emergence of Primary RGB Tandem OLED
As the television market evolves, MLA technology is expected to decline in prominence. LG and Panasonic are now launching flagship OLEDs utilizing Primary RGB Tandem technology, also known as four-stack OLED. This new technology promises substantial improvements, including a 33% increase in peak brightness, a 40% enhancement in color brightness, and a 20% reduction in power consumption. These advancements suggest a significant leap forward in OLED technology, potentially rendering QD-OLED less relevant.
Samsung's Strategic Shift
At CES 2025, Samsung's announcement regarding its flagship OLED TV, the S95F, raised eyebrows among industry observers. The 83-inch model's subpixel structure indicated it might not be a QD-OLED, leading to speculation that it could be equipped with LG Display's four-stack OLED panels. If this is accurate, it could signify a strategic pivot for Samsung, moving away from QD-OLED technology in favor of more advanced options.
Industry Trends and Future Implications
Rumors are circulating that Sony may also abandon QD-OLED technology in favor of four-stack OLED panels, reflecting a potential shift in the industry. Such a move would underscore the growing recognition of the advantages offered by newer OLED technologies. If these advancements lead to better performance and reduced manufacturing costs, it could reshape the competitive landscape of television displays.
Conclusion
The potential decline of QD-OLED technology marks a pivotal moment in the television industry, as manufacturers explore new innovations like Primary RGB Tandem OLED. This transition could lead to enhanced display quality, improved energy efficiency, and ultimately, more affordable options for consumers. The evolution from QD-OLED to more advanced technologies highlights the industry's ongoing commitment to innovation and improvement, setting the stage for a new era in television technology.