OLED Televisions: The Next Generation In TV Technology

Whilst OLED televisions have been under development for some time now, it is only recently that talk of them has entered wider public awareness. There seems to be an awful lot of excitement about the developments, particularly at the increasing number of trade fairs and industry shows around the world. But is it warranted?

Before discussing the benefits of OLED televisions, it is worth spending a little time trying to understand the tech. Rather than using a screen that reflects light to produce an image, (as with LCDs and LEDs), the layers of compounds that make up the screen emit light themselves.

This allows far richer and deeper colors to be produced. Indicative of this is the reproduction of “true” black; essentially the same black seen in nature. This is fundamental to the industry, as the quality of black produced defines the quality of the complete imagery.

The advantages to be gained continue with the slimness that can be achieved with the screens; the slimmest of which is currently just 3mm. With no need to create a casing for the lights anymore, screens can also be moulded to suit practically any shape and curve.

This naturally makes it all but damage proof. Indeed, such is the strength and malleability of the screens, it is only matter of time before we see them used in billboards, leaflets, cell phones and a whole host of other technologies.

There are of course negatives to the concept. Most notable of all is that scientists are yet unable to produce a screen size that can match those produced by regular LED screens. The biggest dimensions available may only be fifteen inches, but the picture is simply stunning, and the look and style equal to this.

Other than screen size, the obvious downside when looking for OLED televisions is the price. You can expect to pay a minimum of two thousand five hundred dollars for a screen size of just eleven inches. For that amount you can get a good quality forty inch (and upwards) LCD screen, so this puts it beyond the reach of most.

OLED televisions are also affected by a relatively short life span; and this is in direct comparison to the extended lifespan of LED TVs of course. The availability is not too widespread either; which in itself maintains the high pricing of course.

These are facts though; not in any way criticisms. New technology always has problems to resolve. New technology also commands a higher price; not just to repay development costs, but also as somewhat of a status symbol of course. As the market settles, costs will come down, and the shortcomings resolved; humans are quite good at that!

In summary, the advantages of OLED televisions now and for the future will outweigh any disadvantages. They are the greener option; subsequently consuming fewer resources and the picture clarity is unparalleled.

Jimmy Tyrrell writes about OLED TVs and OLED televisions