TCL provided an update to FlatpanelsHD regarding its plans to produce inkjet-printed RGB OLED TVs, saying that the target is to start low-volume production in late 2024 and 2025.
In 2016, TCL CSOT announced plans to invest 46.5 billion RMB ($6.9 billion at the time) to build the world's most advanced LCD production line and later a line for OLED TV panels.
TCL's plans for advanced LCD production have materialized, establishing the Chinese company in a leadership position in the segment.
Last year, TCL CSOT initiated the production of OLED panels for mobile devices at its T4 line in Wuhan, China, with a monthly capacity of 15,000. The company aims to eventually produce 80 million mobile OLED panels per year.
TCL CSOT's panel production capabilities and plans as presented in Warsaw, Poland. Photo: FlatpanelsHD
OLED TVs from TCL
The push into OLED TV panels will take place with the more advanced T8 line in Guangzhou, China. At an event in Warsaw, Poland, and in subsequent discussions, TCL shared an update with FlatpanelsHD.
TCL CSOT is now targeting to start low-volume production of inkjet-printed (IJP) OLED in late 2024 and 2025, though they cautioned that timing could shift.
The T8 line, an 8.5G line, is primarily intended for 55, 65, and 75" OLED panels. However, there is a possibility of 42" and 98" OLED TVs, as well as OLED monitor panels. Utilizing inkjet-printing, as opposed to deposition, is expected to result in more efficient and lower-cost production.
TCL CSOT has previously showcased this 65" inkjet-printed 8K OLED panel. Photo: TCL / EET China
Up to 2000 nits, 90% Rec.2020
TCL plans to introduce a third panel type, RGB OLED, to compete with LG Display's WOLED and Samsung Display's QD-OLED. RGB OLED employs three sub-pixels in red (R), green (G), and blue (B) to create an image.
The company expects an IJP RGB OLED TV to deliver 300 nits average and 2000 nits peak brightness, making them suitable for bright living rooms. It should reach over 90% coverage of the Rec.2020 color space and deliver improved energy efficiency. However, production costs, at least initially, are expected to be high.
Also read: Samsung Display rumored to switch to blue PHOLED in 2025
While it will take some time before TCL enters the OLED TV segment, when it does, it is poised to strengthen competition with technology that should further advance OLED TVs. This is good news for consumers.
| 2023 WOLED TV (LG) | 2023 QD-OLED TV (Samsung) | 2025 RGB OLED TV (TCL) |
|---|
| Sizes | 42-97" | 55-77" | 55-75"
later 42-98" |
| Resolution | 4K/8K | 4K | 4K/8K |
| Filter/conversion | RGB filter | QD blue conversion | No, RGB direct |
| Average brightness | ≈220 nits | ≈240 nits | ≈300 nits |
| Peak brightness | ≈1500 nits | ≈1300 nits | ≈2000 nits |
| Color | 74% Rec.2020 | 84% Rec.2020 | >90% Rec.2020 |
| Production costs | High | High | High |
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