This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily on March 26, 2019

SINGAPORE: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd has unveiled its latest range of QLED TVs, leveraging on cutting-edge technology including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, as it aims to continue growing its share in the premium television market.

“At Samsung, we believe our latest innovation offers more than what we can see and experience. With the new products and features announced today (yesterday), we’re unlocking the potential by making our consumers’ lives more seamless and connected.

“We will remain committed to providing new experiences that exceed our consumers’ expectations in the region,” said Samsung Electronics Singapore president Eugene Goh at the Samsung Forum 2019 yesterday.

At the event, the group announced its entire line of QLED TVs to be sold in more than 60 markets this year, with the group aiming to increase its market share in the 8K TV market as it continues to sustain its leadership in the premium TV segment.

The 2019 QLED key products unveiled include the 8K Q900R, with 65-inch to 98-inch screen sizes, while the 4K Q90R, Q80R, Q70R and Q60R come with 43-inch to 82-inch screen sizes. The new line-up features over 20 models with more ultra-large TV models.

“Increasing the number of large-screen models in its TV line-up is part of a wider strategy at Samsung, arising from shifting consumer demands.

“According to global business information provider IHS Markit, the market for 75-inch or bigger TVs recorded 2.1 million units in 2018, with 43% growth to three million units expected this year and to 5.8 million units by 2022,” said Samsung Electronics regional head of TV, Southeast Asia and Oceania Simon Sim.

Samsung Smart TVs will also offer a new iTunes Movies and TV Shows app along with the Apple AirPlay 2 support, providing more entertainment options and greater open platform functionality.

The group’s new lifestyle TVs dubbed “The Frame”, transforming into an art display when the screen is not in use; and “The Wall”, a massive 219-inch microLED display, were showcased as well.

Other displays included Samsung’s new connected solutions, based on its digital assistant technology “New Bixby”, allowing voice control over its new TVs and appliances.