Quantcast
Jump to content


Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm team up on mixed reality platform


BGR

Recommended Posts

Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google execs talking about next-gen mixed reality headset tech at Unpacked 2023.

Mixed reality refers to computing experiences that involve augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR). The most exciting mixed reality rumors in today’s tech landscape concern Apple. Its imminent AR/VR headset is expected to revolutionize this particular business. But Apple isn’t the only tech giant devising mixed reality devices. Samsung invited Google and Qualcomm to its Galaxy S23 Unpacked event on Wednesday to announce they’re working on a mixed reality platform of their own.

Qualcomm’s CEO Cristiano Amon and Google’s SVP of Android Hiroshi Lockheimer took the stage together with Samsung’s mobile division president TM Roh at the event. They discussed the hardware and software features that would power mixed reality experiences.

Amon mentioned the Snapdragon XR technology that will power Samsung products and Google experiences on mixed reality devices. “We’re working to create a new era of highly immersive digital experiences that blur the lins between our physical and digital worlds,” the CEO said.

“Google’s been investing for a long time across both experiences and technology in AR and VR,” Lockheimer said. “These technologies are integral to the new phase of computing as it can change the way we interact with people and information to get things done in the real world.”

“But delivering this next generation of experiences requires cutting-edge advanced hardware and software,” he continued. “That’s why our collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm is so exciting.”

Apple mixed reality glasses render - side view.
Apple mixed reality glasses render – side view. Image source: Ian Zelbo

Lockheimer highlighted Google’s efforts to add AR experiences to Android. He said Google scaled ARCore to 1 billion Android devices. Moreover, Google supports AR search on YouTube, Google Maps, and Google Lens.

While all of that sounds exciting, the trio did not reveal any new device or a roadmap to launch one. Apple should to unveil its mixed reality headset this spring and launch it in stores by the end of the year.

Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm practically delivered a joint declaration that they want to work closely together to create gadgets that support mixed reality features. But there’s no telling how long it’ll take to see such a Samsung-branded mixed reality headset rocking Qualcomm tech and Google AR software in stores.

Also, let’s remember that Samsung manufactured smartphone-powered VR headsets before. But those gadgets weren’t exactly must-have products. The company stopped producing the Gear VR headset some six years ago.

That said, the more competition in the space, the more exciting the rollout of next-gen AR/VR headsets will be. Apple and Samsung aren’t the only tech companies developing such devices. Meta, Microsoft, Sony, and HTC are working on similar headsets or selling VR products already. The focus is more on VR content consumption than anything else when it comes to the commercially available headsets.

That’s why Apple’s upcoming $3,000 AR/VR headset is expected to change the paradigm. And many of Apple’s rivals might very well end up copying Apple’s AR/VR experience.

Apple’s one significant advantage over Samsung in this AR/VR headset race is that it controls everything. Apple makes its M-series chips that will power the AR/VR headset and creates the software for it. Samsung will need assistance from Qualcomm and Google for the critical hardware and software that will power its mixed reality headset.

The post Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm team up on mixed reality platform appeared first on BGR.

View the full article

Link to comment
Share on other sites



  • Replies 0
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
  • Similar Topics

    • By Samsung Newsroom
      “I hope that my work will allow people to say what is inside their hearts or on their minds when they don’t have the right words.”
       
      Carissa Potter describes herself as “a human longing for connection.” Through printmaking, writing and installations, she has pursued this meaningful goal of fostering interpersonal experiences. Her work spans various mediums, capturing the intricacies of such human experiences with emotional depth and resonance.
       
      Potter has held residencies at Facebook, Google and the Kala Art Institute in Berkeley, California. Additionally, her pieces have been featured at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and Urban Outfitters. Through her company, People I’ve Loved, she has expanded her reach to over 600 stores worldwide.
       
      Her desire for meaningful connections is apparent in her work — which combines words with drawings to create pieces that deeply resonate with audiences. Samsung Newsroom spoke with Potter about her artistic journey and how she uses art to connect with people.
       
      ▲ Carissa Potter
       
       
      Artistic Identity and Philosophy
      Q: Please briefly introduce yourself.
       
      I am a person longing for connection. I write books, have conversations, create art installations and process emotions through text and images. My company, People I’ve Loved, has made objects to foster connections between humans and non-humans in Oakland, California, since 2012.
       
       
      Q: What inspires you the most in your creative work?
      There is so much joy in problem solving and thinking things through by creating something. From a very early age, I have asked myself deep questions that require these types of creative thoughts. What about humans make us want to stick through hard moments? How can meanings exist in a meaningless universe?
       
       
      Mirrors of Emotion as Themes and Narratives
      Q: Your openness in sharing personal thoughts and emotions adds a special layer of connection to your artwork. How has this transparency shaped your creations?
       
      For artwork to be visually interesting, there must be some kind of emotional relationship. I gravitate toward art that is somehow reflective of my own experience — almost like holding up a mirror to a life that I either want or have had. Whenever I make something that is hard, painful or beautiful, I have faith that the piece is comforting someone out there.
       
      “Anytime people are open, honest and vulnerable, there is a subconscious invitation for someone to return the sentiment.”
       
      In a visual sense, the idea of connection is most directly communicated using words and figuration. So, that is what I tend to lean on — telling stories that we long to hear, but somehow have had a hard time finding due to societal limitations on what we are allowed to feel. The idea that feelings are responses to external stimuli is emotionally liberating. We don’t have to judge ourselves as good or bad — we just exist and that makes us worthy in and of itself.
       
      ▲ Carissa Potter with her daughter Margaret
       
       
      Q: How do viewers typically respond to these deeply personal dimensions?
      Anytime people are open, honest and vulnerable, there is a subconscious invitation for someone to return the sentiment. I try hard to give people the benefit of the doubt and understand that I can feel this way and they can feel that way. Both perspectives hold value.
       
      Then, when someone says, “I feel that way too,” “I found your work when I was going through something so similar,” or “Your work helped me accept my broken self,” I just feel like a part of something greater than myself.
       
      “For artwork to be visually interesting, there must be some kind of emotional relationship.”
       
       
      Q: In your discussions on emotional granularity, you mention using art as a release for feelings you might not express otherwise. How does art provide a platform for these emotions?
      We often wish to say the right thing or do something better. However, our intentions and actions are so influenced by the situation that it is hard to be honest. Through art, you can convey feelings or sentiments about someone that you could never actually say. There is an emotional relief to honestly sharing something with someone you trust and having reciprocated intimacy.
       
       
      Carissa Potter x Samsung Art Store
      Q: “Winter Moon” was a favorite among Samsung Art Store users last winter. What inspires you to choose specific motifs for your seasonal pieces?
       
      If I had to guess why “Winter Moon” was popular, I’d say it’s because it is simple. We live in a complex world, and simple images are like a break for the mind. The imagery is comforting and melancholic at the same time, so there is a neutral emotional tone that I am attracted to. Winter is often portrayed as cold, dark and isolating, but the season can create moments of safety and connection.
       
      ▲ “Winter Moon” (2022)
       
       
      Q: “Bunny Love” and “Flowers for Mom” were featured in Samsung Art Store’s April and May curated collections. Why do you think these pieces resonated so strongly?
       
      At the end of winter, we search for new life — for energy, vitality and things to celebrate and look forward to. Both “Bunny Love” and “Flowers for Mom” are visual representations of what we long for and a reminder of what is in store. Seasonal rituals are important for understanding space and time. In many ways, that is what the images are doing for us — grounding us and telling us we are right where we need to be.
       
      ▲ “Bunny Love” (2024)
       
      “There is an emotional relief to honestly sharing something with someone you trust and having reciprocated intimacy.”
       
       
      Q: What are some other pieces you recommend users to display on their Frame TVs?
       
      During my episodes of depression, I found that tending to plants brings me joy. It is so simple and obvious —but, really for me, it was massively uplifting.
       
      “Plant Wall” features various black plants against a white background. This piece was part of my collaboration with SFMOMA. “A Family of Plants” is a group of plants in terracotta pots. “September Bloom” shows a woman seated with a bouquet of flowers.
       
      To me, plants represent the interconnected nature of being — they make you awe at the complexity of life. There is beauty and life everywhere. Working with plants makes me feel little, yet helpful. And sometimes feeling little is comforting.
       
      ▲ “Plant Wall” (2020)
       
      ▲ “A Family of Plants” (2024)
       
      ▲ “September Bloom” (2023)
       
       
      Exploring Art in the Digital Realm
      Q: How do you envision technology impacting the creation and distribution of art?
       
      I believe all art throughout time has been a collaboration with the available technology. But that is not a bad thing! It could be, but it is also just a reformatting of information and understanding.
       
      I can’t say for sure what everything will look like in the future, but it’s interesting to think about how we are directly harnessing human knowledge when we use emerging tech or AI. In some ways, it is giving form to the collective consciousness.
       
       
      Q: Have you seen any changes in how people engage or interpret art as digital mediums become more popular?
       
      I love flipping through art and seeing the diverse pieces humans have made. In art school, making something comfortable enough for someone’s home was sort of a faux pas. But now, I think it is valuable if someone likes something enough to want to live with it.
       
      Art is now a lot more democratic. It is magical to be able to enjoy artwork in your home that used to only be accessible in formal institutions. Your flesh and bone can be in one spot while your mind is in a completely different space surrounded by things and people you love.
       
       
      Q: Is there anything else you would like to share?
       
      I don’t think we discussed nostalgia. Recently, I pondered about why we keep objects. My brain tends to remember the hard things. From an evolutionary standpoint, this makes sense. If something is dangerous, I should remember it.
       
      Yet, there are things that I want to remember that don’t always fall into the neuropathways that serve me to not die — like the good things. Reminders of the sweetness of life, times of connection and joy are more important than ever in recognizing that there will be moments of pleasure again. I think art can do that and so much more.
       
      There is a study that suggested humans are taking less and less emotional risks in life. I find that somewhat depressing. I am interested in building relationships, feeling emotions and getting dirty. I hope that my work will allow people to say what is inside their hearts or on their minds when they don’t have the right words.
      View the full article
    • By Samsung Newsroom
      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
    • By Samsung Newsroom
      For 14 consecutive years, Samsung Electronics has led the commercial display market with its innovations.1 This year, the company has set the standard for displays once again with the release of The Wall for Virtual Production (IVC Model) — an ultra-large MICRO LED-based display customized for virtual content production. Lauded for its unmatched color capabilities, pristine high definition, and black seal technology for ultra black levels, The Wall for Virtual Production was unveiled at Infocomm 2023, the largest audiovisual tradeshow in North America, and the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) 2023, a premier exhibition for broadcasting and media in Europe.
       
      Samsung Newsroom sat down with Chan Hyoung Park, Vice President of Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics, Mark Taylor, European Head of LED at Samsung Electronics, and developers Sanghoon Oh and Hyun Ji to learn more about the inspiration for the display and the future of film production.
       

       
       
      Increased Content Immersion and Reduced Production Costs
      Virtual production is a method of filmmaking that combines computer-generated imagery with live-action footage to create next-level content. The use of both physical and digital elements gives filmmakers the ability to visualize imaginative scenes in new ways.
       
      ▲ Virtual production can reduce production costs and post-production editing time as filmmakers can view results in real time by utilizing a ultra-large, high-definition LED display.
       
      As virtual production enables filmmakers to overcome the limitations of physical sets or environments, an increasing number of ultra-large, high-definition LED displays are being incorporated into production — saving time and cutting costs during post-production editing. Unlike chroma key green screens, which require image compositing and color correction during post-production, LED screens for virtual production can seamlessly display a breathtaking background behind moving actors.
       
      LED walls, such as The Wall for Virtual Production, offer advantages against both these methods. With these screens, producers are able to efficiently make edits to video in real time, whilst actors experience better immersion because of the lifelike, ultra-high definition images.
       
      ▲ Mark Taylor underscores how virtual production screens increase the level of immersion for actors during filming.
       
      Mark Taylor, European Head of LED, explained how these features make virtual production an attractive form of film production. “If producers were to add a lot of effects post-production, it takes a long time and the cost can be lot higher. But a lot of it’s actually being done in-camera. With LED walls, actors can crucially interact with the video behind them, making the experience much more immersive,” he said. “In addition, because LED is its own self-emitting light, you can put that in much brighter environments than projections, and you don’t have to use camera settings and lighting to compensate for that, resulting in more flexibility.
       
       
      Adoption Throughout the Film and TV Industry
      Virtual production techniques are becoming increasingly popular because of their specific advantages. Large-scale blockbuster films that require heavy visual effects began shifting to virtual production during the pandemic, and many studios have continued to use it since. Likewise, various OTT platforms have followed this trend to further market growth.
       
      To usher in the era of virtual production, CJ ENM — a leading entertainment company in South Korea — teamed up with Samsung to install The Wall Virtual Production Stage in Paju, South Korea last May. Measuring over 1,000 inches, the custom oval display set a remarkable precedent for the next era of film and TV production and paved the way for future virtual production technology.
       
       ▲ CJ ENM Virtual Production Stage, where The Wall Virtual Production Stage is installed.
       
      As adoption continues throughout the industry, market size is forecast to reach a value of approximately $700 (by when?) million and annual growth is predicted to be around 18% through 2030. With applications expanding to advertising and live commerce, virtual production will set a new standard for production across various sectors.
       
      ▲ The Virtual Production market is expected to grow 18% YoY globally through 2030
       
       
      Optimization of Virtual Production Studios
      The Wall for Virtual Production is equipped with the latest visual technologies such as newly developed LED elements and ultra-anti-reflective film so the darkest colors show up clearly on screen even under the brightest production lights. Each screen module is built to a 4:9 ratio, slimmer than the conventional 16:9, to help reduce the angle between cabinets and thus prevent video distortion from light reflections.
       
      “In the early stages of developing The Wall for Virtual Production, we wanted to ensure the product was suitable for diverse studio environments,” said Samsung developer Hyun Ji. “We accomplished this by creating a display that can be installed in numerous orientations such as being hung or stacked with other screens. This flexibility allows productions to adapt the screen to their sets. In addition, we’ve prevented screen distortions by reducing the product’s length and eliminating light reflection by applying ultra-anti-reflective film for more natural videos.”
       
      ▲ The Wall for Virtual Production modules are compatible with both hanging and stacking structures to fit production needs
       
      The modular nature of The Wall for Virtual Production allows it to be constructed in a variety of forms ideal for any environment — from a perfectly flat screen to up to 6,000R curvature. Additionally, the width can be extended by any length while the height can range from 9m to 13.5m (up to 10 modules hung or 15 modules stacked). To keep the weight evenly distributed, Samsung developed a uniquely patented structure to ensure the display is stable.
       
      “With the leveler-style supporting structure applied, the weight of the modules is evenly distributed among the cabinets,” explained Ji.
       
      To minimize distortion when cameras are connected, The Wall boasts the highest industry refresh rate of up to 12,288Hz for unparalleled image quality. Samsung developer Sanghoon Oh explained how this refresh rate is ideal for studio production. “By achieving this impressively high refresh rate, we’ve minimized screen distortions that occur when subjects overlap or when horizontal lines form due to camera movement,” he said.
       
      ▲ Hyun Ji (left) and Sanghoon Oh who worked on the development of The Wall for Virtual Production
       
      Aside from the impressive scale of the display, Samsung applied innovative software solutions to The Wall for Virtual Production to ensure visuals are replicated seamlessly on screen. The company equipped the display with Generator Locking (Genlock) to synchronize the screen and camera’s video signals as well as Phase Offset to adjust any delays between the camera and screen.
       
      Oh explained how Samsung’s industry and technological expertise has helped the company perfect its products. “Samsung can respond to various market demands efficiently because the company designs and produces its own hardware — including LED modules, cabinets and S-Box (a dedicated video player) — as well as its own software solutions — such as LED Signage Manager (LSM) for LED operation control and Virtual Production Manager (VPM) for virtual production,” he said.
       
       
      The Next Era of Content Production
      Unveiled earlier this year, The Wall for Virtual Production has already garnered attention from industry professionals and creatives alike. “Although we’ve just begun, we’ll work to strengthen the product’s competitive market edge and lead the industry,” said Oh.
       
      Equipped with industry-leading technologies, The Wall for Virtual Production will enhance not only the production process but the production environment as well.
       
      “The Wall for Virtual Production maximizes digital effects while also simplifying and speeding up the video production process,” said Chan Hyoung Park, Vice President of Visual Display (VD) Business. “The display has the potential to change the film and TV landscape by reducing costs and creating a more efficient industry.”
       
      ▲ Chan Hyoung Park explains how The Wall for Virtual Production will redefine industry standards for production.
       
      Combining extraordinary technological features with imaginative digital and visual effects, The Wall for Virtual Production is poised to lead a new era of content production.
       
       
      1 Samsung has been the No.1 selling digital signage brand for 14 consecutive years by Omdia (IHS) 23 Q2 Smart Signage History+Forecast report. (Note: Consumer TVs, along with Commercial Lite and Hospitality TVs used for signage, are excluded.)
      View the full article
    • By Samsung Newsroom
      The Freestyle 2nd Gen is the latest release in Samsung’s lifestyle screen lineup, merging groundbreaking innovation with user-centric design. Following its launch in early September, it’s clear that this projector is a standout in its class, not just for its ultra-portable form factor but also for the immersive, next-level entertainment experience it delivers.
       
      ▲ The Freestyle 2nd Gen, launched in September, offers a next-level entertainment experience
       
      Positioned as the next big thing in portable projectors, Samsung’s Freestyle 2nd Gen promises unparalleled innovation in a compact design. Let’s see what the experts are saying about The Freestyle 2nd Gen.
       
      ▼ List of Featured Articles (In alphabetical order)
      HomeTheaterReview
      Newsweek
      Techaeris
      Techlicious
       
       
      The Ultimate Portable Entertainment Experience
      ▲ The Freestyle 2nd Gen enables users to have flexible viewing experiences
       
      The Freestyle 2nd Gen embodies Samsung’s commitment to innovative design and technology. Its unique ability to stream cloud games without a console, along with an option to pair two projectors for a widescreen view, places it leagues ahead of its competitors.
       
      Upon seeing the device, the first thing that catches the eye is its compact size. Despite its compact form factor, The Freestyle 2nd Gen can project a screen size of up to 100 inches, impressing many reviewers who have seen the product in action. Techlicious awarded the product an “Editor’s Choice” distinction for its big-screen picture quality, saying, “The Samsung Freestyle 2’s 100-inch picture was a pleasure to watch.”
       

       
      No matter the size users choose to project their image, The Freestyle 2nd Gen maintains great picture as well as sound quality, with accurate colors and 360 sounds. Its 1080 x 1920 resolution enables larger, crisper and clearer images so that users can enjoy a big screen experience anytime, anywhere. Techlicious praised the device for being “a better option for movies or games where a big, bright picture with sound to match is paramount,” in addition to awarding it with four out of five stars.
       
      Another innovative feature that will up-level the cinematic viewing experience is Samsung’s Smart Edge Blending, which allows two devices to merge and project a wide, cinematic screen, setting itself apart from the competition. Smart Edge Blending provides an expansive 160-inch panoramic and 120-inch vertical viewing experience that ensures no matter where you are, be it a backyard movie night or a gaming marathon in the living room, the visual experience is always top-notch. Outlets such as Techaeris awarded The Freestyle 2nd Gen with a “Top Pick 2023” distinction and commended its ability to have a bigger display by connecting two devices.
       

       
       
      Enhanced Performance With Game Changing Features
      The new Freestyle 2nd Gen truly shines in its gaming features and performance. The built-in Samsung Gaming Hub has been recognized as a unique feature for gamers who want a portable projector that caters to their lifestyle. Now players can connect their favorite game controller to the Gaming Hub on The Freestyle 2nd Gen and access more than 3,000 games via cloud-based gaming streaming partners like Xbox, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, Utomik, Antstream Arcade and Blacknut Cloud Gaming without the need for a separate gaming console. It is a literal game-changer, serving as a one-stop hub for players’ gaming needs.
       
      HomeTheaterReview awarded the device with a “2023 Editor’s Choice” distinction and praised the new addition of the Gaming Hub, stating: “The Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen with Gaming Hub is a unique portable projector that aims to take your entertainment experience to the next level by doing it all.”
       

       
      To ensure smooth gaming experiences, The Freestyle 2nd Gen is equipped with an expanded DDR memory of 2.0GB and optimized software, which provides a snappier performance. Newsweek elaborated on the device’s performance, highlighting the significant leap from its predecessor: “The Freestyle Gen 2 is an overall better value thanks to the speedier interface and the ability to stream games.
       

       
       
      Beyond Gaming: A Multimedia Powerhouse
      It doesn’t stop at gaming. The Freestyle 2nd Gen allows users to access all their favorite television and movie content with ease, making binge-watching sessions an effortless affair.
       
      In fact, the Freestyle 2nd Gen is ready to go straight out of the box. Without the need for endless wires and additional devices, users can easily stream and enjoy content with just a Wi-Fi connection. Through Samsung’s free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) and video-on-demand service (AVOD), Samsung TV Plus, users can access over 300 live TV channels, thousands of on-demand shows and movies in the U.S. and over 2,200 channels globally across 24 countries. Users also have access to all the same major OTT services they would on any Samsung smart TV, so all their favorite content is available on the go.
       
      Outlets like Newsweek recognized the device as an “Editor’s Choice” and stressed that it appeals to those who prioritize a hassle-free entertainment experience: “Shoppers looking for a feature-packed, simple-to-set-up projector that allows you to stream and game without connecting anything other than power and WiFi will enjoy The Freestyle 2nd Gen with Gaming Hub.”
       
      ▲ The Freestyle 2nd Gen offers premium viewing experiences at any angle
       
       
      The Perfect Choice for Everyone
      The latest innovations found on The Freestyle 2nd Gen makes it the perfect choice for users seeking seamless and enjoyable experience. HomeTheaterReview noted: “Given how the many features have been successfully implemented and the smooth automated setup, this device easily earns an Editors’ Choice as a portable projector.”
       

       
      Samsung’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in design is evident in the Freestyle 2nd Gen, as Techaeris noted, “Overall, the performance of The Freestyle Gen 2 is fantastic for its size and price.”
       
      Samsung is committed to enhancing conventional viewing experiences by leveraging advanced screen technologies to offer larger, immersive displays without sacrificing convenience, as can be seen in The Freestyle 2nd Gen. The immersive nature of this device and the innovative features packed into the compact form make it the future of portable entertainment.
       
      To learn more about The Freestyle 2nd Gen, visit https://www.samsung.com.
      View the full article
    • By Samsung Newsroom
      To enjoy their favorite content to the fullest, more and more consumers are seeking to purchase larger TVs for their homes. According to market research firm Omdia, the global market size of 85-inch screens has grown drastically from 180,000 units sold in 2019 to 1.87 million units sold in 2022. Likewise, for 98-inch screens, the global market has increased from less than 1,000 units sold in 2019 to about 160,000 units sold in 2022.
       
      To discuss the shifting market trends towards ultra-large TVs, Samsung Newsroom sat down with Heejin Chae, TV Product Planning, Samsung Electronics, and Sangyeob Kim, Samsung Store, and learned more about how Samsung Electronics is providing revamped viewing experiences through ultra-large TVs.
       
      ▲ People in charge of product planning, sales and design talk about ultra-large 98-inch TVs
       
       
      Bigger, Better Viewing Experiences With Wider TVs
      With its breathtaking size able to display exceptional detail on a grander scale, the 98-inch TV has become the new standard for ultra-large TVs. In line with such trends, Samsung unveiled the 2023 98-inch Neo QLED 8K at CES 2023, offering consumers bright colors and extremely vivid details on a brilliantly large screen. As standard TV sizes have grown larger over the years, Samsung adapted to industry trends and consumer demands by developing ultra-large TVs for better viewing experiences.
       
      “About ten years ago, a 60-inch TV was considered a large TV. But as time went by, 65-inch TVs became mainstream, and now 75-inch and 85-inch TVs have become popular, demonstrating consumers’ growing demand for larger TVs,” said Chae. “In fact, our customer survey showed that 75% of consumers bought, on average, a TV 13 inches bigger than their previously purchased TV model.”
       
      ▲ Heejin Chae explains how evolving consumer demands have shaped Samsung’s product offerings.
       
      Additionally, with the popularity of streaming services, consumers are increasingly purchasing ultra-large TVs to enhance their at-home viewing experiences. “An astronomical number of people have started using streaming services since the pandemic as they increasingly consumed content like movies and sports,” said Chae. “As a result, the demand for ultra-large TVs has risen, as they give a more immersive viewing experience.”
       
      Younger generations also seem to prefer larger screens, furthering the popularity of ultra-large TVs. While people in their 40s and 50s made up more than half of the consumer base who purchased TVs over 80 inches in 2015, those in their 30s and 40s have led sales in the ultra-large TV market since 2021.
       
      As these factors and preferences become more prevalent among users, the ultra-large TV market will continue to grow. “The ultra-large TV is an inevitable trend, and consumers are ready to enjoy extremely large TVs,” Chae said.
       
       
      Comfortable Viewing at Further Distances
      One of the biggest concerns when buying an ultra-large TV is the viewing distance — how far away the viewer is from the TV and whether that space is available at home. “As the viewing distance of the 98-inch NEO QLED TV has been shortened compared to previous ultra-large TVs, viewers can comfortably watch from as close as 4 meters away,“ said Kim.
       
      ▲ Sangyeob Kim discusses how the viewing distance of a TV affects the viewing experience.
       
      “We created a space in the store with a sofa to simulate the viewing distance at home. We move the sofa to help customers gauge the viewing distance for smaller and larger rooms. Once the customers get a feel of how the TV would fit in their homes, they tend to prefer the larger models,” Kim added.
       
      While some may have concerns about the large size of the TV, Kim explained that many consumers wish they had bought a larger size after opting for a smaller screen. “I’ve had customers call me after they had their TVs installed, asking if they can return their purchase for a larger one. That really puts me on the spot,” Kim stated. “Some even said they received the wrong TV size, claiming their TV seemed too small.”
       
      When asked about delivery and installation, Kim explained that Samsung has worked diligently to ensure customers can receive their products easily in the comfort of their homes. “98 inches is the largest TV size that a standard Korean apartment elevator can accommodate. And when the elevator is too small, we offer other optimized delivery and installation services based on the customer’s environment,” Kim explained. “In fact, we even once successfully installed a TV after climbing a spiral ladder at a two-story house.”
       
      “We thoroughly communicate with our customers and closely look at various factors in advance, such as whether it is possible to place the ultra-large TV on a table or wall mount it,” Kim added.
       
       
      From Viewing to Experience: Changing the Living Room Culture
      As TVs at home provide diverse content such as games, sports, movies and fitness content, the role TVs play has changed. As immersion is a top priority for many consumers, the popularity of large TVs is likely to continue as many consumers seek TVs that provide breathtaking experiences for all types of content.
       
      ▲ (From left) Heejin Chae, TV Product Planning, Samsung Electronics, and Sangyeob Kim, Samsung Store
       
      “Hands-on experience is necessary to show people how great a large TV is,” said Kim. “As a TV is usually the main design focal point in a room, I recommend experiencing it in person.”
       
      “When my acquaintances ask for advice about what TV to purchase, I first ask them what kind of activities they would do with their TV,” said Chae. “A larger display gives a more immersive experience. If users continue to utilize TVs for multiple purposes — including video calls, home training, gaming, etc. — ultra-large TVs will continue to be popular.”
       
      “TVs help shape the living room culture, so purchasing a new set is like an investment for the next 10 years. We will continue to focus on these aspects as we plan for future TV products. I believe Samsung TVs will continue to be at the center of home entertainment,” Chae stated.
      View the full article





×
×
  • Create New...