One of the big tech trends at CES 2021 could be transparent displays, and LG is leading the way with a showcase from which its 55-inch transparent OLED technology can be showcased in our daily lives.
Currently, LG is the only company that manufactures transparent OLED screens, but there are others that manufacture transparent LCD screens. LG says its OLED technology is superior, with its panels achieving 40% transparency, while the LCD offers only 10%.
During CES 2021, LG will display its 55-inch transparent OLED in several ways, including seeing the panel being embedded in a frame designed to sit at the foot of the bed.
The TV will be able to step out of the picture (as we saw in traditional TV settings in bed) and display information in a variety of aspect ratios – meaning that you won’t necessarily need to turn on the entire screen every time you use it.
There are cinematographic speakers built into the frame as well, eliminating the need for additional surround speakers (although we cannot say whether these speakers are good).
LG says the frame that contains the screen and speakers can be easily moved around the house – although we will have to wait for more details before commenting on whether this is indeed the case.
What is encouraging here, however, is that LG is promoting a clear consumer concept for its transparent displays, which gives more hope to those looking to buy one for their home in the future.
However, initially transparent OLED TV screens will be more prominent in commercial environments.
Transparent OLED outside the home
Two other scenarios that LG will present at its CES 2021 virtual booth are both commercial environments. Firstly, it is the idea of having a transparent OLED display in a restaurant, where customers can view the menu and select their food through the screen, while they can still see the restaurant behind.
The other example is the replacement of a traditional subway window with a transparent 55-inch OLED screen, allowing passengers to see maps and useful information on the screen, while being able to see the outside of the screen.
While all of this looks great, it is worthwhile to approach transparent OLED screens carefully. We have seen previous transparent screens affected by poor contrast and black levels, and while LG claims that its latest transparent OLED offers “sharp image quality”, we will have to wait to see it physically before making a judgment call.
There is currently no information on when this technology will actually be available for consumers to buy – but we expect it to be extremely expensive when it hits the market.
This is not the first time that we have heard of LG’s transparent OLEDs. Panasonic announced transparent TVs using LG panels in November 2020 – although they are aimed at the commercial market, so you won’t be able to buy one.
CES 2021 runs from January 11th to 14th, and we will cover the virtual technology show live throughout the week to bring you all the latest news and products – including any additional details from LG on availability, pricing and specifications. its transparent OLED displays.