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Samsung Electronics debuted its Visual eXperience Transformation (VXT) platform at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024 — the largest AV systems integration show in the world held in Barcelona, Spain from January 30 to February 3. A cloud-native Content Management Solution (CMS), Samsung’s VXT offers remote content management of digital menus, kiosks and other commercial signage through a single, secure platform. In particular, Samsung has significantly improved the user-friendliness of its existing server-based operation and management software MagicINFO. VXT is an all-in-one solution that facilitates content creation and management of B2B displays without the need for manual software updates. Business owners and managers can easily oversee operations of their store’s digital signage to display promotions, menus, video advertisements, welcome messages and more. Notably, VXT features Pre-Integrated Repeatable Solutions (PIRS) — developed by partners and tailored to various industries for enhanced usability. From displaying world-class artwork to linking real-time transaction information with Link My POS, VXT is expanding how businesses are able to manage and present content. Learn more about VXT and PIRS in the infographic below. View the full article

Samsung Electronics today at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024 in Barcelona is showcasing how SmartThings will bolster its B2B displays to shape the future of business connectivity. Samsung’s “SmartThings for Business” exhibition emphasizes the new advancements that the cutting-edge internet-of-things (IoT) platform will offer, as well as Samsung’s commitment to providing more connected, easy-to-control digital signage across industries. “In a commercial display sector where operational efficiency is key, Samsung digital signage is leveraging SmartThings to deliver next-gen connectivity and features to organizations of all sizes,” said SW Yong, President and Head of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “This further expansion of the SmartThings ecosystem will serve to elevate experiences for customers and partners from a wide variety of industries.” How Businesses Can Leverage Connected Tech Through SmartThings — From the Smart Store to Smart Office At the event, Samsung is showcasing how SmartThings enables business owners to leverage their digital signage to connect and gain more control of their smart devices across various landscapes. By offering the SmartThings connectivity feature to commercial display products such as Smart Signage and Hotel TVs, users can experience the convenience of hyper-connectivity in their business environments. These changes will include Samsung smart devices, as well as other devices that support the industry’s latest IoT specifications, Matter and the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA). Through the application of SmartThings to various business environments, Samsung contributes to the more efficient management of space and energy by transforming places of business into interconnected smart spaces. These connectivity improvements have been designed to benefit all types of business customers, from small and mid-sized business owners to enterprises. Examples of the smart spaces — including a smart store, smart office and smart hotel — are on display at Samsung’s booth at ISE 2024. With the Routines feature, users can create desired environments by setting the optimal lighting, temperature, humidity, and air quality in advance, and easily maintain them over time with automated space management. For instance, a smart store can automatically turn the power supply on and off to align menu boards and lighting with operating hours. Plus, SmartThings AI Energy Mode helps business owners stay eco-conscious by reducing energy usage through efficient asset management and advanced monitoring, such as turning off connected devices or dimming the lights during the day depending on power usage, occupancy and time. To cater to diverse B2B customer needs, Samsung has expanded the SmartThings Enterprise API1 for business owners. By leveraging the API, customers can easily connect SmartThings to their own management system and create a customized solution optimized for different scenarios or dashboards with the information they want. The customizable device ecosystem ensures seamless connectivity across a wide range of devices and enhances system reliability. A separate application for installers also makes the installation process easy, paying attention to the unique needs of B2B customers with different device owners. In the case of a hotel or a conference room, where the device owner and the user may be different, the device owner can generate a web URL to share SmartThings features with the end users. This way, hotel guests and conference room users can easily enjoy the SmartThings experience without having to install an extra app. The device owner can also specify the use of authorization and duration of the connected device when generating a web URL. Marking a significant step forward in connected technology for businesses, SmartThings for Business is set to be globally available during the first half of 2024. The platform will open new possibilities for efficient, smart management of various smart devices across all industries, offering tailored and intelligent device management solutions that cater to the unique needs of diverse business environments. New Samsung Interactive Display Utilizes Access to Google Play Apps and Google Services for Unlimited Education Possibilities During ISE, Samsung is also announcing its first Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA)-certified2 interactive display (model name: WAD) expected to launch in the first half of 2024. Powered by Android 13, the WAD series — available in 65-, 75-, and 86-inch models — provides a seamless and intuitive learning experience for both teachers and students alike. The WAD series offers an interactive classroom experience with a suite of educational tools. It provides access to numerous educational apps through Google Play, while also allowing access to various Google services, such as Google Classroom and Google Drive. The interactive display has the look and feel of a large tablet with a familiar and intuitive user interface (UI). “We are thrilled to bring more Android EDLA-certified devices through our partnership with Samsung Electronics, expanding Android’s reach beyond consumers to schools and businesses,” said Scott Porter, Managing Director, Android Chrome Enterprise Partnerships at Google. “We look forward to a continued partnership with Samsung to provide innovative display solutions for classrooms and beyond.” The WAD series has been meticulously engineered to meet various safety and reliability requirements in educational environments. The display offers enhanced protection3 during electrical surges or high humidity, adopting various technical measures including a 500V (DC) capacitor to instantly absorb high voltage up to 500V, and a glass type fuse to prevent damage. The WAD series also applies anti-humidity glue to the critical area of the chipset to withstand humid conditions, making it a valuable tool for schools located in areas with high-humidity or rainy climates. Additionally, Device Management Solution (DMS) offers remote monitoring and control of classroom displays, even when unforeseen circumstances arise, to enhance convenience in educational settings. With Advanced Messaging, the displays can immediately send important messages across campuses, classrooms and public spaces. Urgent communications can also be displayed on interactive whiteboards, so students and other personnel are alerted in real time. Plus, the series includes an optional attachable Wi-Fi® module, catering to advanced security requirements for various sectors. The WAD series has been designed with learning optimization as a key priority. It offers a natural writing experience with infrared (IR) touch and supports up to 40 simultaneous touchpoints. The slim design lets educators move the device more conveniently, and features such as Multi Window mode allows them to manage multiple windows within the interface. There is also a 3-in-1 USB-C port that simplifies connectivity and allows connected devices to be charged at up to 65W, plus an HDMI output that enables easy content sharing. For improved convenience, the series also comes with a front stereo speaker, penholder and handle. Partnering With Cisco, Unveiling 105” 5K Smart Signage Optimized for Hybrid Work Experience Samsung today also announced an expanded partnership alongside Cisco to deliver enhanced collaboration experiences for hybrid workers. As part of this new partnership, Samsung unveiled its new 105-inch, 21:9 Smart Signage QPD-5K model that is compatible with Cisco Room Kit EQ, which is certified for Microsoft Teams. Samsung’s newly released 105” QPD-5K model comes with 5K4 resolution and a 21:9 aspect ratio. It provides an intuitive, yet natural video conferencing experience ideal for hybrid workspaces. The QPD-5K is compatible with the Cisco Room Bar and Room Kit Series, creating an efficient meeting environment by integrating camera, audio and all other capabilities required for video conferencing. “We’ve entered a new era in which hybrid work is an integral part of the work experience. Employees simply must be able to have full functionality while working online,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our partnership with Cisco provides users with an accessible work environment, and at the center of that is our 105-inch QPD-5K display that gives users the feeling they are sitting in the same room as their colleagues.” When connecting video conferencing devices certified for Microsoft Teams, such as Cisco’s RoomOS-powered systems,5 the QPD-5K model’s 21:9 aspect ratio optimizes Front Row experience, an inclusive meeting layout for Microsoft Teams Rooms. It ensures that all participants, whether joining remotely or in person, feel equally present and engaged in the discussion. “In today’s era of hybrid work, it is essential that workspaces are reimagined to enable great collaboration. This means outfitting conference rooms with intelligent video systems designed to bring immersive collaboration experiences to all participants, regardless of their location,” said Jeetu Patel, EVP and General Manager, Security & Collaboration, Cisco. “Through our partnership with these industry leaders, we’re delivering something we call Distance Zero, eliminating second-class experiences no matter where you are working.” Providing a panoramic view, the QPD-5K display offers a hyper-realistic and immersive visual experience in control rooms and classrooms, as well as in meeting rooms. It supports multiple windows to display more information and runs on Tizen OS for optimized performance of web services and industry-leading durability. Users can also take advantage of a dual-screen video conferencing experience by connecting two Samsung 4K UHD Smart Signage series displays with Cisco’s newest solution, Cisco Room Kit EQX. This feature is available with QHC, QMC and QBC models ranging in size from 65 to 75 inches. Overall, the partnership with Cisco delivers a new standard for fully scalable, manageable and secure solutions for every meeting space in the office of the future. Samsung Unveils ‘Transparent Micro LED’ in Europe At the event, Samsung first presented the Transparent MICRO LED in Europe, a groundbreaking innovation unveiled globally at CES 2024. This cutting-edge technology sets a new standard in the commercial display market with its exceptional transmittance and clarity, boasting an extremely small MICRO LED chip and precision manufacturing process that eliminates seams and light refraction. The transparent MICRO LED can be customized to any size or ratio, offering another level of customization for customers. This technology is set to revolutionize the retail and exhibition spaces, with the display simultaneously showing important information while providing a view of actual products or creating a unique ambiance through its transparent surface. It presents new use cases and expands the limits of the screen experience once again. Since the debut of The Wall in 2018 — a modular commercial display featuring MICRO LED technology not confined by size, resolution, or shape — Samsung has been the leader in LED display technology. The company’s unrivaled leadership in the technology and its craftsmanship, evident in ultra-fine pixel pitch and specialized applications in virtual production, continue to explore the infinite possibilities of the state-of-the-art display technology. 1 An application programming interface (API) is a software intermediary that allows applications to communicate with each other. 2 The Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA) is a Google certification program for Android devices. It aims to assist solution manufacturers in offering devices with built-in Google Mobile Services, ensure device compatibility with Google services and applications, and enhance the security features of Android devices. 3 The claims of enhanced surge and humidity protection for the WAD series are based on Samsung’s internal testing in accordance with the company’s stringent quality standards intended to prevent damage from unexpected power fluctuations and moisture-related defects. 4 5,120 x 2,160 pixels. 5 RoomOS is an open operating system that powers Cisco collaboration devices. ※ Google, Android, Google Play and Google Drive are trademarks of Google LLC. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics today announced that its 2024 edition of The Frame has earned Pantone Validated ArtfulColor certification from Pantone,1 a globally renowned authority in color standards. This certification highlights The Frame’s advanced adaptive color technology, which ensures an exceptional color reproduction capability that meets Pantone’s rigorous standards for authentic color that is nearly indistinguishable to the human eye under standard lighting conditions. “Consumers are expecting more out of The Frame,” said Yongjae Kim, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our aim is to always provide the best possible customer experience, and in the case of The Frame, this is accomplished by giving users a display that portrays art in a way that is true-to-life. We’ve achieved this with the Pantone Validated ArtfulColor certification and will continue to work towards optimizing the viewing experience further.” Pantone Validated ArtfulColor evaluates if displays can faithfully simulate a range of physical Pantone Color cards and Pantone SkinTone color cards under CIE2 standard illuminant D65, which portrays illumination that is more-or-less equivalent to that of the average midday light in Western or Northern Europe. The Frame is the world’s first display in the industry to meet this stringent validation, reaffirming Samsung’s leadership in color fidelity that was first recognized by previous Pantone Validated status across all QLED TVs in 2022.3 “After evaluating Samsung The Frame in standardized ambient lighting, we were very pleased with the high quality of the on-screen Pantone color reproduction,” said Iain Pike, Senior Global Director of Product and Licensing at Pantone. “These results are duly reflected in the award of the world’s first television to earn the Pantone Validated ArtfulColor designation. Visually, we can also confirm the lifelike quality of the displayed colors and skin tones compared to the physical swatch cards, as observed by our technical team during the evaluation process. This is a truly unique, value-added capability of Samsung The Frame we tested.” The Frame’s Art Mode is specifically designed to exhibit artwork and photographs with true-to-life colors under standard lighting conditions such as at homes or galleries. It offers viewers an immersive and authentic art viewing experience by intelligently adjusting brightness and hues to optimize the image for ambient lighting conditions. Leveraging Samsung’s cutting-edge QLED display technology, The Frame has previously received Pantone Validated and SkinTone Validated approvals for its precise emissive rendering of the full gamut of Pantone SkinTone colors and the vast spectrum of all 2,390 colors contained within the Pantone Matching System (PMS). The Frame also comes with a Matte Display — which significantly reduces glare and reflections — bringing the extensive collection of approximately 2,300 artworks from the Samsung Art Store to life. For more information on The Frame, visit http://samsung.com. 1 Pantone company provides a universal language of color, called Pantone Matching System(PMS), that enables color-critical decisions through every stage of the workflow for brands and manufacturers. 2 Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage or International Commission on Illumination, in English. 3 https://news.samsung.com/global/2022-samsung-qled-and-lifestyle-tvs-recognized-by-top-global-certification-institutes-for-eye-comfort-safety-and-color-accuracy View the full article

Samsung Electronics today announced the official launch of its Visual eXperience Transformation (VXT) Platform, a cloud-native Content Management Solution (CMS) combining content and remote signage management on one secure platform. Designed with ease-of-use in mind, the all-in-one solution allows businesses to easily create and manage their digital displays. “Cloud migration is an unstoppable trend,” said Alex Lee, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “VXT is an innovative step toward this migration in that it makes high-tech signage more readily accessible, no matter where our customers are. But not only is high-tech signage accessible, the content and remote management solutions VXT provides are user-friendly.” Efficient Cloud-Native Solution for All Business Needs Samsung VXT is the next evolution of CMS software from MagicINFO, delivering an enhanced cloud-native solution tailored for seamless content creation and management of all B2B displays — including LCD, LED signage and The Wall. VXT streamlines the deployment and updating of software directly via a cloud portal, which eliminates the cumbersome process of manual updates. Registration of devices is designed for efficiency, as well, with a simple 6-digit pairing code that allows for quick and secure setup. By streamlining digital signage operations and management, VXT offers a versatile solution that meets the needs of any sector, whether it be retail, hospitality, food and beverage or corporate. The solution has already received recognition from prominent partners such as Hy-Vee’s retail media network, RedMedia, which uses VXT CMS to manage a network of over 10,000 Samsung smart signage screens — including the QBR-Series, which has been installed across all of Hy-Vee’s grocery stores and retail locations. Intuitive Content and Screen Management Unlike other CMS solutions, VXT is a turnkey solution developed by Samsung that allows users to seamlessly create content and manage screens in one application. It consists of three CMS modules: VXT CMS, VXT Canvas1 and VXT Players, and each module makes content creation and screen management easier than ever: VXT CMS: Content management is simplified through an intuitive interface that simultaneously handles content, playlists and schedules. The remote management feature allows real-time management of multiple devices. Additionally, robust security features — such as private certificates and allowing customizable security solutions for every business need. VXT Canvas: What You See is What You Get (WYSIWYG)-based creative tools that enable anyone to create content effortlessly and more intuitively with support for various templates, widgets and partner content. Users can create original content with custom and company fonts, as well as templates and images pre-loaded on the system for added convenience. VXT Players: VXT supports Tizen and Android-based players,2 while also managing multiple web elements simultaneously on one screen. Additionally, a web-based virtual screen allows users to easily view and manage their signage deployments. VXT also combines content, solutions and expertise of third-party system integrators, software developers and content partners to provide users with access to an even broader range of incredible content, specific to vertical use cases, without the need for additional customization or development.3 Some of the notable Pre-Integrated Repeatable Solutions (PIRS) include: VXT Art: Users can access a diverse library of artwork and photos with just a few clicks, and content from various art museums and galleries can be used across businesses ranging from office spaces to restaurants and beyond. Link My POS: This solution enabled by Wisar Digital allows businesses to use VXT Canvas to pull product data from Point Of Sale (POS) systems, eliminating the need to manually enter data or export data. Link My POS improves overall efficiency and reduces pricing errors, which in turn saves time and money. Ngine Real Estate: This solution developed through a partnership with Ngine Networks lets businesses display properties that are for sale or rent by using VXT to forego re-entering data when connecting directly to their platforms. Ngine Automotive: Cars, bikes and boats can be listed as for sale or rent by connecting directly to business displays, without needing to enter information. Messages can be resumed on social network platforms, as well. This solution has also been achieved by partnering with Ngine Networks. Seamlessly Control and Manage from Anywhere By offering compatibility with both desktop and mobile devices4, Samsung VXT revolutionizes content management because it caters to both the advanced needs of desktop users and the convenience required by mobile users. This flexibility allows users to manage their content anytime, anywhere. Furthermore, VXT is designed to substantially reduce downtime in digital signage operations. Through advanced modular architecture, VXT isolates and minimizes the impact of any potential failures, allowing users to swiftly address disruptions. VXT also comes with an early warning feature, which detects potential issues — such as extreme temperature changes or network instability — and alerts customers before failure occurs. This offers greater peace of mind by allowing users to take preemptive actions or speed up the recovery time. VXT’s energy management tool offers an at-a-glance view of energy consumption levels, as well. Customers can optimize their energy use based on monthly insights and adjust settings like brightness levels and automatic on/off times accordingly. Availability Samsung will hold a global launch event of VXT on January 31 at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024 in Barcelona. Designed as an omni-channel service, VXT will be accessible through various subscription plans, including both monthly and annual options. Customers can also make offline purchases through existing B2B sales channels worldwide, while online purchases will initially be made available in the U.S. before a subsequent global rollout in 2024. Prospective users can take advantage of a 60-day free trial before subscribing. For more information on Samsung’s VXT platform, please visit https://vxt.samsung.com. 1 VXT CMS and VXT Canvas supported on Chrome browser only. 2 VXT is compatible with Android devices running Android 10 or higher, and with Tizen devices on Tizen 6.5 or higher. 3 For PIRS partner content, additional subscription payment is required. 4 VXT CMS and VXT Canvas supported on Chrome browser only. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics unveiled its vision for the future of displays and screens at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. With more consumers desiring quality appliances to enjoy various forms of entertainment, Samsung has consistently sought to raise the bar for viewing experiences through its innovations. In line with this, the company showcased some of its premium appliances and newest services at the Screen Experience Zone in its CES booth. From the Neo QLED 8K ultra-large, high-definition TVs to Ballie smart home companion, the Screen Experience Zone was a must-see section for attendees. Samsung Newsroom visited the site to capture the excitement surrounding the company’s latest visual display technologies. ▲ CES 2024 attendees enjoyed a fantastic showcase of Samsung’s leading display technologies in the Screen Experience Zone. Unparalleled Viewing Experiences on an AI-Powered 8K Display As a TV market leader for nearly two decades, Samsung’s premium displays have continually set the standard for viewing experiences. Building off this expertise, Samsung integrated AI technology into its TVs to create the 2024 Neo QLED 8K — offering users superior viewing experiences with the latest technical features. ▲ Attendees viewed the Neo QLED 8K display section at the Samsung First Look event on January 7 (local time). The Neo QLED 8K contains the NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor,­ the company’s most advanced AI-powered processor to date. The processor supports a neural processing unit (NPU) that is twice as fast as previous versions and an AI neural network eight times larger than before. As the processor utilizes deep learning and 8K AI Upscaling Pro technology, it automatically adjusts image and sound quality, delivering picture-perfect 8K content every time. ▲ Attendees tested out the AI Motion Enhancer Pro and Active Voice Amplifier Pro functions of the Neo QLED 8K display, optimizing content for at-home viewing. Visitors to the zone could also learn about the new AI Motion Enhancer Pro and Active Voice Amplifier Pro functionality of the Neo QLED 8K which help to minimize distractions while viewing. The AI Motion Enhancer Pro utilizes a sophisticated motion detection algorithm to enhance clarity during motion-intense content, such as sports games, helping users enjoy every moment of a match. Similarly, the Active Voice Amplifier Pro feature utilizes AI to analyze and separate aspects of sound to provide optimal sound for different types of content. For instance, users can choose to minimize or enhance the background noise from a conversation — helping them catch every word without distractions. ▲ Enhanced by Samsung’s Tizen OS, the Neo QLED 8K display offers expanded connectivity between the display and a multitude of Samsung devices. To provide opportunity for further customization, the 2024 Neo QLED 8K comes equipped with Samsung’s open-source operating system Tizen. As part of this, Daily+ enables users to adjust their content viewing experience by connecting their Samsung devices, such as Galaxy smartwatches, Galaxy Buds, Galaxy smartphones and more, to their display. As such, users can view exercise data from their Galaxy Watch while working out and mirror video calls from their smartphone conveniently on their TV. ▲ For a seamless appearance in any interior, the Infinity Air Stand features a minimalistic design that blends into the space. Samsung also displayed its Infinity Air Design of the 2024 Neo QLED 8K that boasts a slim profile. Mounted on the Infinity Air Stand, the display appeared to be floating above ground. With this seamless and simple design, viewers can stay focused on the content without being distracted by clunky stands or display setups. A High-Definition MICRO LED Display Built for Every Consumer Aside from the Neo QLED 8K display, Samsung showcased its line of MICRO LED displays, including the ultra-customizable, modular Transparent MICRO LED. ▲ The new 140-inch MICRO LED screen captivated viewers with its crystal-clear picture quality and high resolution. Upon entering the space, visitors can experience the overwhelming sense of realism created by the 140-inch ultra-large MICRO LED display. Since the screen is bezel-less and modular, the size, resolution and ratio can be freely scaled and adjusted according to user preferences. Additionally, the new line of 2024 MICRO LED displays come in a new 140-inch size option, giving consumers another option in line with the trend of large screens. ▲ Samsung provided attendees with an in-depth look at the meticulous development process for the MICRO LED technology. To give visitors a glimpse of the artistry and ingenuity behind MICRO LED technology, the Screen Experience Zone displayed the MICRO LED Craftsmanship Wall — representing the countless hours of work needed to develop the screen. ▲ Attendees learned about the groundbreaking technology used in the Transparent MICRO LED, a display characterized by its eye-catching, glass-like appearance. ▲ Spanning across the back wall of the zone, the Transparent MICRO LED was the main highlight for many guests at the event. Additionally, Samsung showed off its Transparent MICRO LED screens, which feature a strikingly clear design that mirrors that of glass. Expanding Home Possibilities With IoT Tech A curious object that caught the attention of many attendees was Ballie, Samsung’s smart home companion that wandered around a corner of the booth freely. First introduced at CES 2020, Ballie’s functionality has been upgraded to better meet users’ needs. As it can autonomously navigate users’ homes, Ballie acts as a smart personal assistant, monitoring the home and performing a multitude of tasks efficiently. ▲ Attendees eagerly watched the demonstration of the upgraded Ballie, which acts as a personal companion at home. With its upgraded functionality, Ballie can interact with and control IoT home devices to create the perfect home environment. To help users start their day, Ballie can open the curtains according to a user’s preferred wake-up time. When preparing for the day ahead, Ballie can project a variety of content — such as daily news or weather conditions — on the floor or wall. Additionally, Ballie can monitor pets and family members when a user is away from home, automatically alerting them in the event of an emergency. ▲ Ballie can autonomously navigate around the house and perform a variety of useful tasks, helping make users’ lives more convenient. ▲ The SmartThings Hub provides users with a variety of information regarding their home, daily schedule and more. Additionally, using the new Now+ SmartThings Hub function, users can monitor their home on their TV even when they’re not viewing content. If movement is detected, the Now+ Widget automatically appears on the screen, providing summaries on home energy usage, weather conditions, home information and more. When watching content, users can easily toggle the setting off from the quick menu to not be disturbed. Immersion Taken to the Next Level Samsung displayed a plethora of its other innovative technologies that redefine home entertainment experiences at the Samsung First Look event. This included The Premiere 8K, the world’s first wireless 8K projector that extends up to 150 inches, and the Music Frame, a smart frame-shaped speaker that fits any interior. Attendees also viewed how Samsung is driving innovation within the gaming realm with the Gaming Hub and the line of products created with Performance Designed Products (PDP), helping users enjoy games more and taking gaming experiences to the next level. ▲ The Premiere 8K (on left) and Music Frame were unveiled at the Samsung First Look event before the start of CES. Displaying its industry-leading expertise through a multitude of products, Samsung ushered in a new era of viewing experiences built on the latest technologies. View the full article

A new, smart home companion is welcoming users home by taking care of household tasks, displaying the day’s events and sharing weather updates. Samsung Electronics introduced a new version of its AI home companion robot Ballie at a press conference at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas on January 8 (local time) — ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. First introduced at CES 2020, Ballie has been revamped with new advanced features to help users intelligently navigate their lives. Ballie acts as a personal home assistant, autonomously driving around the home to complete various tasks. By connecting to and managing home appliances, Ballie can provide a helping hand to users in many situations — continually learning from users’ patterns and habits to provide smarter, more personalized services. Ballie provides peace of mind by sending video updates of pets or loved ones to users’ devices when they’re away from home. What’s more, Ballie can set the mood for any home activity whether users are exercising, working or relaxing. From projecting workout videos on the wall or floor in an optimal size to playing music and answering phone calls, Ballie makes life at home more productive and enjoyable. Learn more about Ballie’s unique AI functionalities in the video below.  View the full article

A new, smart home companion is welcoming users home by taking care of household tasks, displaying the day’s events and sharing weather updates. Samsung Electronics introduced a new version of its AI home companion robot Ballie at a press conference at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas on January 8 (local time) — ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. First introduced at CES 2020, Ballie has been revamped with new advanced features to help users intelligently navigate their lives. Ballie acts as a personal home assistant, autonomously driving around the home to complete various tasks. By connecting to and managing home appliances, Ballie can provide a helping hand to users in many situations — continually learning from users’ patterns and habits to provide smarter, more personalized services. Ballie provides peace of mind by sending video updates of pets or loved ones to users’ devices when they’re away from home. What’s more, Ballie can set the mood for any home activity whether users are exercising, working or relaxing. From projecting workout videos on the wall or floor in an optimal size to playing music and answering phone calls, Ballie makes life at home more productive and enjoyable. Learn more about Ballie’s unique AI functionalities in the video below.  View the full article

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Samsung Electronics today announced its latest QLED, MICRO LED, OLED and Lifestyle display lineups ahead of CES® 2024. The announcement also served to kick off the AI screen era through the introduction of a next-generation AI processor poised to redefine the perception of smart display capabilities. In addition to bringing improved picture and sound quality, the new lineups provide consumers with AI-powered features secured by Samsung Knox, focusing on inspiring and empowering individual lifestyles. “Now that we are living through the hyperconnected era, it’s no longer just about delivering quality visual experiences. Displays should enhance our lives both on and off the screen,” said SW Yong, President and Head of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s AI screens, powered by on-device AI technology, are designed to be the centerpiece of users’ homes, connecting all compatible devices to offer users a more flexible and diverse lifestyle.” Double the AI Performance for Enhanced Neo QLED 8K Picture Quality Samsung’s newest Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs offer the full package, including lifelike picture quality, premium audio technology and a rich array of apps and services. At its core, the 2024 Neo QLED 8K is Samsung’s latest and most innovative TV processor yet: NQ8 AI Gen3, which has a neural processing unit (NPU) that is twice as fast as that of its predecessor. The amount of neural networks has also increased eightfold from 64 to 512, allowing everything on screen to be displayed in crisp detail. Thanks to this advanced processor, the 2024 lineup is equipped with unprecedented performance upgrades. The Neo QLED lineup also brings a suite of picture quality and design enhancing features, including: 8K AI Upscaling Pro1: Leverages NQ8 AI Gen3 for enhanced 8K upscaling, sharpening low resolution content so that it is displayed in ultra-high resolution. AI Motion Enhancer Pro: Solves common issues in sporting contents — such as ball distortion — by streaming high-resolution sports matches through this feature2 powered by NQ8 AI Gen3. The feature automatically detects the sport type and uses deep learning to apply the proper ball detection model. Real Depth Enhancer Pro: Adds details to fast-moving scenes using AI to precisely control mini LEDs. By detecting the part of a scene that the human eye would naturally focus on and bringing it to the foreground, images appear more lifelike and three dimensional. Infinity Air Design: Complements Neo QLED 8K’s impeccable picture quality with a screen only 12.9mm in depth,3 allowing for an immersive viewing experience that focuses on high resolution and outstanding sound quality. It is also offers a unique mirror effect in which the TV appears to hover in its surroundings. The performance of the Neo QLED 8K is rounded out by immaculate audio quality, on par with the stunning 8K picture quality on screen. 2024 Q-Symphony: Allows users to connect multiple wireless speakers and a soundbar to a TV or projector for perfect audio synchronization across shows, movies, and playlists. It’s a technology that perfectly synchronizes TV with wireless speakers and a soundbar. Active Voice Amplifier Pro: A proprietary AI dialogue booster that utilizes exclusive deep-learning technology to significantly enhance dialogue and voices on screen. It separates voices from mixed audio, enhancing voice input so users can easily follow the conversation on screen at any volume. 2024 Tizen OS Streamlines the Home TV Experience The 2024 Tizen OS brings content front and center on the Neo QLED 8K lineup. It offers a personalized content and service experience based on different accounts set up on smart TVs. Now, different members of each household with a Samsung Smart TV can set up a profile for personalized recommendations and a more customized overall experience. Samsung TV Plus: The updated user interface (UI) includes a new home screen with an overview of available content, with added categories for faster content discovery. The service will also connect with Samsung accounts to easily access users’ favorite channels and content while offering tailored content suggestions based on viewing history. ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ Controller: Samsung has partnered with gaming accessory provider Performance Designed Products (PDP) to develop the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” controller, set to be launched at CES 2024. PDP’s new wireless controller includes a built-in, rechargeable battery that provides up to 40 hours of playtime per charge, a 30-foot low-latency Bluetooth wireless connection, a Samsung Gaming Hub home button capable of launching Gaming Hub, an easy-to-use TV volume control button and more. Connected, Inclusive Experiences With the Samsung Ecosystem With Samsung TVs at the center of the home, users can reap the benefits of the latest innovations and enjoy seamless connectivity between devices in their day-to-day life. In 2024, Samsung will vastly improve its connected experience with Samsung Daily+,4 a hub for in-home activity. It provides a wide range of services and features — from personal training and telehealth to video calls and remote PC solutions — in one single interface. New features include the following: Workout Tracker: This free service5 puts real-time exercise data — such as workout duration and heart rates from wearable devices — on top of users’ content on Samsung screens to keep them both entertained and informed while working out at home. TechnoGym: enhances your home workout with high-quality fitness and wellness videos from the world-class instructors at TechnoGym. Discover these curated contents for maximum performance, only on Samsung TV. F45: Users can work out and join intensive in-studio training at one of F45’s 3,000+ studios worldwide. FlexIt: Live one-on-one sessions with top fitness and wellness professionals Tail: provides real-time video consultation with a vet in the comfort of users’ homes. From basic care tips to advanced advice, Dr.Tail has a range of questions covered. Users can connect with veterinary experts in real time whenever they need. Multi Control: Allows more efficient work from home by giving users control of all their screens — including TVs, smartphones, and monitors — with a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse. Users can experience a different way to work by copying and pasting, reading documents and more across devices. Samsung’s latest 2024 TVs and screens also come with greater compatibility across various devices within the ecosystem, allowing a more integrated connection between TVs and smartphones or wearable devices for a greater level of customization, accessibility and convenience. Mobile Smart Connect: All of the new featured apps and services are easily controlled with the SmartThings Mobile Plugin, which transforms the smartphone into a multi-functional remote that offers users greater control over their screens. With a straightforward pop-up interface and a customizable UI, the app provides convenience and enhanced accessibility. 360 Audio: The audio feature, previously offered on Galaxy devices, has also expanded to Samsung TVs and screens. Now, Samsung Galaxy Buds seamlessly connect to TVs to deliver spatial audio for movies, shows and even gaming titles, so users can be truly immersed in visual content and gameplay. Vibrary: Enjoy your favorite artist’s high-quality images via the big screen of your TV. With Ambient Mode, you can be welcomed every day by your favorite artist. You can also enjoy photos and music from TV and mobile devices through Casting, providing a seamless viewing experience. The latest TV and screen lineup also boasts enhanced accessibility offerings, allowing more consumers to enjoy their favorite content on Samsung Neo QLED than ever before. Audio Subtitle: The world’s first on-device TV feature that uses AI and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to provide a voice guide for embedded subtitles in real-time. Remote for Barrier Free: An app designed for users with visual, auditory or physical disabilities by enabling more thoughtful TV control via smartphones. The highly customizable app incorporates UI enhancements such as intuitive button placement, distinct colors and tactile feedback, while also integrating Samsung’s latest accessibility features such as voice guides for easy access right from the smartphone. Relumino Together Mode: Relumino is a feature that enables people with low vision to enjoy their favorite TV shows, movies and games without the need for wearable hardware. With AI technology dynamically outlining the edges of on-screen elements and rebalance colors, the feature enables users with low vision to more clearly see people and objects. Relumino Together Mode provides standard screens and Relumino Mode screens side-by-side, so people with low vision and their families can enjoy TV together. MICRO LED: Pushing the Boundaries of Display Technology With the new transparent MICRO LED, Samsung is showing the world that there are infinite possibilities for screens. The screen, which looks like a piece of transparent glass, boasts an extremely small MICRO LED chip and precision manufacturing process that eliminates seams and light refraction. This allows the transparent MICRO LED to create a clear, unobstructed picture for various use cases in both homes and B2B environments. Touting a modular design that allows users to personalize the shape, size and ratio of screens to fit any space, MICRO LED is a truly innovative screen technology. Samsung’s years of research and development — stemming from its semiconductor expertise — have led to an extremely effective process, allowing LED chip operation circuits to be directly deposited on the glass and thereby mitigating the loss of brightness that users may experience with conventional displays. Offering Wider OLED Lineups To Meet Consumer Preferences Samsung’s 2024 OLED TVs build on the legacy of last year’s models, with the S95D offering an ultra-large 77-inch canvas for high-detail, a high-frame rate and intensely vibrant video. The display is 20% brighter than previous models, with deep and rich blacks and AI-enhanced color accuracy so pure that it’s Pantone Validated. Samsung has also introduced the S90D and S85D in various sizes, from 42” to 83’’.6 New ‘OLED Glare Free’ technology7 — specifically designed for 2024 OLED screens — preserves color accuracy and reduces reflections while maintaining image sharpness to ensure an immersive viewing experience, even in daylight. The OLED-optimized, low-reflection coating overcomes the trade-off between gloss and reflection thanks to a new, specialized hard-coating layer and surface coating pattern. The S95D’s screen will captivate audiences with advanced, proprietary picture-quality engines that preserve perfect whites, deeper blacks and accurate colors. In addition to being Samsung’s brightest OLED screen yet, it also features high refresh rates of up to 144Hz, so sports fans and gamers can enjoy seamless motion and crystal-clear action on their screens. New Lifestyle Products Deliver Bespoke Solutions To Enrich Every Lifestyle In addition to its award-winning lifestyle lineup that includes The Frame, The Serif and The Terrace, Samsung is reaffirming its commitment to “Screens Everywhere, Screens for All” with the various new products in its latest lifestyle lineup. These new additions provide another level of customization and personalization, as seen below: The Frame: Already the best-selling lifestyle screen product, The Frame comes with new enhancements to boost the art experience. Now with over 2,500 artworks from world-renowned museums and galleries in the Art Store, users can enjoy an Art Store experience that is even better than before. The Frame’s new art streaming feature gives users a taste of the Art Store’s diverse collection by providing them with free hand-selected artworks monthly. Moreover, the 2024 Frame helps reduce energy costs by up to 10% with the variable refresh rate adjustment available in Art Mode.8 The Premiere 8K Projector: The Premiere 8K is the world’s first projector offering wireless connectivity. Removing the need for cables, this solution allows consumers to keep their living spaces neat and tidy. The ultra-short throw projector comes packed with smart features — such as picture-off premium home audio, cloud gaming, always-on voice with far-field mic and four multi-view screen splits — to extend usability and provide almost increased use cases. The projector incorporates Samsung’s patented “Sound-on-Screen” technology, integrating the top speaker module and software algorithms for an immersive sound experience. The Freestyle 2nd Gen: The second iteration of the portable projector features Smart Edge Blending, which supports seamless merging of projections from two The Freestyle devices to create a large screen for pictures and videos. It allows two devices to project an image as big as 160-inches with a 21:9 screen ratio, with no manual adjustment needed. New Soundbars for Immersive Audio Experience To top off a home entertainment set up, the 2024 soundbar lineup offers newly updated models for even more immersive audio experiences, which are particularly bolstered by advanced AI algorithms. Music Frame: This customizable speaker is compatible with SmartThings and provides surround sound when paired with Samsung TVs and soundbars. Music Frame can either operate as a standalone wireless speaker or pair with a Samsung TV and soundbar via Q-Symphony to augment bass and surround sound. Seamlessly blending into its environment by camouflaging itself inside modern picture frames, Music Frame provides high-quality sound without being an eyesore. HW-Q990D: This soundbar features a 11.1.4-channel configuration, immersive Dolby Atmos sound and supports pass through of content in 4K 120Hz. It analyzes audio and uses AI to optimize sound for the perfect experience across a wide range of content. HW-S800D: This ultra-thin, 1.6-inch-deep soundbar is designed to fit seamlessly into any space and provides rich and immersive sound. At only a third of the depth of conventional soundbars, the S800D has 10 drivers, including dedicated overhead speakers and a center channel for crystal-clear vocals. The combination of a deep bass subwoofer and a passive radiator also enhances the listening experience with deep, distortion-free bass in a compact form factor. Samsung’s 2024 TV lineup promises a seamless fusion of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design, setting the stage for personalized, immersive experiences that redefine the way people live and engage with their devices. 1 QN900D only. 8K AI Upscaling for other models. 2 Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. Upscaling may not apply to PC connection and Game Mode. 3 12.9mm in depth only applies to 65’’ QN900D. 4 Samsung Daily+ will be applied to DU7000↑ and rolled out worldwide. 5 Workout Tracker is compatible with Galaxy Watch 4 and up, YouTube and TV program content. It will be compatible with various third-party devices later in 2024. 6 Size and model availability of OLEDs may vary by country. 7 UL’s verification validates the ‘OLED Glare Free’ claim by assessing the products against Unified Glare Rating (UGR) testing standard set by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) and testing standard set by the International Organization for Standardization. 8 This feature applies to the 55’’ display and above. View the full article

Transparent LEDs are poised to redefine viewing experiences, making the line between content and reality virtually indistinguishable. Leveraging this groundbreaking technology, Samsung Electronics has upleveled its leading MICRO LED display to expand how users enjoy visual content. The company’s Transparent MICRO LED display was unveiled for the first time at Samsung First Look 2024 on January 7 (local time) — ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, the world’s largest consumer electronics and information technology exhibition held in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Combining superior craftsmanship with six years of tireless research and development, this new modular MICRO LED wowed attendees with its futuristic design. The Transparent MICRO LED’s crystal-clear, glass-like display has revolutionized the viewing experience and attracted the attention of global consumers. Check out how Transparent MICRO LEDs will make everything from sports to movies more vivid and immersive in the video below.  View the full article

Samsung Electronics today announced details of the “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” program that will be showcased at CES® 2024. The objective of the program is to work with leading gaming accessory companies to drive the next generation of best-in-class partner products for the Samsung Gaming Hub, Samsung’s game streaming platform. In addition, the company announced its partnership with gaming accessory provider PDP (Performance Designed Products LLC), the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” controller. “Samsung recognizes the indispensable role of accessories in elevating gaming experiences,” said Jiho Ha, Head of Service Partnerships Group at Samsung Electronics. “Building on our already-high level of compatibility, the ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ program will see us collaborating with trusted partners to craft accessories that further enhance the premier experience of the Samsung Gaming Hub.” Starting this year, players will see the “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” badge, which designates the product has been tested for compatibility, quality, performance, safety and security on Samsung devices. Accessories displaying this badge guarantee the best possible game streaming experience on Samsung Gaming Hub, regardless of the supported Samsung device players choose. Today, Samsung also announced its partnership with PDP’s new wireless controller, the “Replay Midnight Blue,” which is the first “Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub” product. The new controller will include a built-in, rechargeable battery for up-to 40 hours of playtime per charge, a 30-foot range low-latency Bluetooth wireless connection, a Samsung Gaming Hub home button capable of immediately launching Samsung Gaming Hub, an easy-to-use TV volume control button and more. Gamers can get a closer look at the “Replay Midnight Blue” at the Samsung booth at CES. The controller is now available1 for pre-order on the PDP website, Amazon.com and BestBuy.com. Samsung continues to give gamers more choice in how they play, from the devices they use to stream their games to the expansion of Samsung Gaming Hub ecosystem and consistently offering innovative products and experiences that players love. Stay tuned as Samsung continues to innovate and add new partners within the ‘Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub’ ecosystem. 1 Availability may vary by regions. View the full article

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Samsung Electronics today announced new Odyssey OLED gaming monitors debuting at CES® 2024, the world’s biggest tech event owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association® (CTA), in Las Vegas next week. The new OLED models deliver on the performance and visual clarity gamers look for in their monitors and include the Odyssey OLED G9 (G95SD model), Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD model) and the Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SD model). The Odyssey OLED G9 is a 49” curved ultra-wide gaming monitor with DQHD (5,120 x 1,440) resolution, a 32:9 aspect ratio and other upgraded features. The Odyssey OLED G8 is the first flat 32” Samsung OLED gaming monitor with 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Both monitors have a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms GTG response time.1 The Odyssey OLED G6 is a 27” QHD (2,560 x 1,440) monitor which supports a 16:9 aspect ratio, 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms GTG response time. “Along with game genres, gaming platforms are getting more diverse,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s new OLED Odyssey gaming monitors will empower gamers with more immersive game environments and innovative technology that personalize their gaming experiences — meeting and exceeding their evolving needs.” Technologies Enabling Delicate Nuance All three new models feature OLED Glare-Free technology that minimizes light reflections, enabling an enhanced viewing experience without extra equipment, so users can play games with consistent brightness and color in nearly any lighting environment. With VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, the monitors deliver incredible details and vivid colors independent of the game or content being displayed. What’s more, they support AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for ultra-smooth, low-latency HDR gaming. The three new monitors bring comprehensive physical connectivity, with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB hub and a DisplayPort 1.4 input. Users will also enjoy better comfort and convenience with VESA mount2 compatibility and a height adjustable stand (HAS) that features tilt, swivel and pivot3 control points. Connected Experiences in a Complete Ecosystem The Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 now offer Multi Control, a new feature that provides seamless device connectivity for an easier, improved multi-device experience. Multi Control allows users to seamlessly transfer images and/or text between their Samsung monitor and other Samsung devices — including their Galaxy Book, tablet or phone — for a smoother, more efficient work process using their mouse and keyboard.4 Additionally, the Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 include the Samsung SmartThings Hub. With the built-in hub, users can connect to various IoT devices that are compatible with Matter and the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA), for device control.5 When switching from work to play, the Odyssey OLED G9 and Odyssey OLED G8 monitors are all-in-one entertainment hubs. Equipped with the Samsung Smart TV platform and Samsung Gaming Hub, they provide access to streaming and cloud gaming services without downloads, storage constraints or the need for a PC/console.6 A Sleek Design To Light Up Any Space For the first time, Samsung has brought flat OLED options to the Odyssey lineup and a 16:9 aspect ratio to the Odyssey OLED G8 and Odyssey OLED G6. The new models leverage the Odyssey OLED lineup’s unique, slim metal design and include new Core Lighting+ to fit in their slim bezels. Core Lighting+ immerses users in the environments of their games and entertainment by emitting ambient light from the back of the monitor. And with a lighting circle four times slimmer than the previous model (G95SC model), it fits in seamlessly with the slim 3.9mm metal bezel. There’s also a new slim metal stand that adopts a tool-free assembly structure, using a 3mm metal plate that provides harmony with the display design and opens up space for other devices. With the unveiling of these new models, Samsung has further strengthened its OLED lineup and bolstered its leadership position in the gaming monitor market. Together, the Odyssey OLED innovations and the continued advancements of the Odyssey Neo series — which saw the release of the world’s first Dual UHD gaming monitor last year with the 57” Odyssey Neo G9 (G95NC model) — are delivering features and performance that will help define the future of gaming. 1 Gray-to-gray (GTG) response time is how long it takes for a pixel to change from one shade of gray to another. 2 VESA mount refers to the industry’s most common family of standards for mounting displays, as defined by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). 3 Swivel and pivot supported in the G80SD and G60SD models. 4 Multi Control is compatible with Samsung monitors operated by Tizen OS released in 2024 or later, Galaxy Books released in 2021 or later and Galaxy tablets and phones running One UI 5.1.1 or higher. 5 A separate SmartThings dongle is required to connect and control Zigbee and Thread devices. Connection to Z-Wave device is not supported. 6 Available partners’ services may vary by region. Available features and games may vary by model and country. View the full article

Steve McCurry from the international photography collective Magnum Photos, the photographer behind the iconic “Afghan Girl” portrait, has played a significant role in contemporary photography for more than four decades. Through his lens, McCurry has documented world conflicts, vanishing cultures, ancient traditions and modern society in an expressive, personal way. From the bustling streets of India to active warzones in Afghanistan, McCurry’s photographs have always been more than mere images — they are windows into the human experience. Magnum Photos Magnum Photos is a cooperative of world-famous press photographers. Located in New York, London, Paris and Tokyo, the collective provides photographs to media, publishers, advertisers, television, galleries and museums worldwide. Magnum’s photography library is a living archive of new works, updated daily from all over the world. His photography, which has traversed continents and cultures, is now available for The Frame, Samsung’s lifestyle TV. Through Samsung Art Store, his visual narratives find a place in homes around the world. Samsung Newsroom sat down with McCurry to talk about his inspiration and how technology can immortalize the stories told through his photography. ▲ Steve McCurry Finding Universality Through a Camera Lens Q: Do you have any significant moments or experiences that have influenced how you approach your work as a photographer? I have always had a desire to travel and push boundaries. After graduating from Pennsylvania State University and working at a newspaper for two years, I bought a one-way ticket to India with the money I had saved. I spent two years traveling throughout India and Nepal, photographing for a variety of magazines. In the spring of 1979, I stayed at a small hotel in Chitral, Pakistan — where I met some Afghan refugees from Nuristan who explained that many of the villages in their area had been destroyed. I told them I was a photographer, and they insisted that I come and capture the civil war. I had never photographed an area of conflict before and wasn’t sure how to react. After a few days, I walked with them over the mountains into Afghanistan and spent nearly three weeks photographing life there. I was astonished to see so many villages that had been virtually destroyed and abandoned. The roads were all blocked or under government control, so we had to walk everywhere. During this time, I met some people who I became close to. I was touched by the culture and beauty of the country. It was a different way of life with no modern conveniences, and I was drawn to the simplicity of that lifestyle. Everything was reduced to the basics — and that has made me return to Afghanistan time and time again. Q: You are well known for capturing raw emotions and intimate moments. How do you establish trust with your subjects, especially in culturally diverse settings? In my experience, most people are approachable. I find that once you explain what you are doing and how you can bring them into your process, people will open up and let you take their pictures. My photographs are how I observe the world and my surroundings. For me, the goal is to find some sort of universality among people across a huge variety of conditions. If I am successful, my artwork should be universally understood by anyone who has experienced the human condition, regardless of their circumstances. Q: Among your photographs, do you have a favorite? I took one of my favorite pictures when I was in an old part of Rajasthan, India. The whole city is painted in a wonderful blue color. I came across a corner and discovered children had left handprints on the wall during a festival. I thought, “What a great picture it would be if I could get people walking in or out of the frame.” After standing for about two hours, one little boy dashed through, and I caught him mid-stride. I was — and still am — happy with the picture. ▲ “Boy Playing,” Jodhpur, India (2007) From Lens to Living Room Q: How have users reacted to your work on The Frame this year? The response has been excellent. Users are excited to have such a wide range of artwork available on The Frame to keep their home interiors fresh. The Frame allows users to discover and appreciate new artists and artwork. It is amusing to see my work alongside classic masterpieces by Van Gogh and da Vinci, as well as many other up-and-coming artists. Q: Does displaying your art on The Frame differ from displaying your art in museums and galleries? The Frame allows users to transform their television into a dynamic art display. They can exhibit images in their home that they may not be able to see in person at museums. Although nothing beats seeing artwork in person, The Frame is a great way to experience art from the comfort of your own home. Q: What pieces would you recommend users display on The Frame? Please give us a brief explanation of each. For centuries in Tibet, prayer flags embellished with sacred writings have been hung with the belief that goodwill and compassion will be spread to all living beings as the wind passes over them. ▲ “Prayer Flags,” Tibet (2005) I spent two weeks with flower vendors as they plied their wares along the shores of Dal Lake in Kashmir, India. The act of buying and gifting flowers is deeply embedded in the region’s traditions and integral to the aesthetic and economy. Their shikaris,1 filled with blooms, offered a deep sense of tranquility and provided a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the surrounding town. ▲ “Dal Lake,” Srinagar, Kashmir (1999) ▲ “Boat in India,” Srinagar, Kashmir (1999) Photography in the Digital Age Q: Could you describe if and how technology has changed how you work over the years? I worked exclusively with film for most of my career, but I have fully embraced digital technology these days. While it hasn’t changed the way I see my work or the way I photograph, technology has undoubtedly altered the process — allowing me to work in much lower light and more complex situations than I could in the past. Nonetheless, the same truths apply to any image regardless of the technique that went into crafting it. There’s impermanence about all things and nostalgia about things in the past — but I prefer to look to the future. Q: How does the digital format of The Frame compare to other platforms where you have shared your work, such as galleries, museums or even magazine covers? Each medium has its advantages. Digital art is virtually permanent, and exposure to heat and light doesn’t affect color — but the medium can be a matter of personal preference. Many museums are supplementing their exhibitions with multi-media presentations, merging different formats. It will be interesting to see what the future holds since technology is evolving every day. The Frame is a wonderful way to see pictures in a more intimate home setting. I remember getting off a plane and seeing one of my pictures on a huge screen at JFK Airport in New York. It was surreal to see my work enjoyed by thousands of people passing through the terminal. Similarly, The Frame allows people to view art more comfortably — adding a new dimension to the experience. Q: In this digital age where most people use their phones as cameras, how do you see the role of professional photographers evolving? The medium, platform or technology — whether it’s Instagram, digital or film — is not important. Successful photography has to be about telling stories and being creative, having your own interpretation and voice to say what is important to you and conveying those emotions through your photographs. Q: What is next for you in the coming year? I will soon be traveling to Antarctica and working on a new book of short stories. Visit the Samsung Art Store in The Frame to see more of Steve McCurry’s work. 1 (In Kashmir) A light, flat-bottomed houseboat. View the full article

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