Korean-made 8K TVs at risk of sales ban in Europe

[Source : Samsung Electronics]

The global market for high-definition large-sized premium TV sets such as 8K and micro-LED TVs dominated by Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics is in danger of contraction from March next year when tighter energy efficiency requirements will take effect in Europe, according to industry sources on Tuesday.

The two South Korean TV giants are focusing on cementing their market leadership for next-generation premium TV products to prevent chasing by Chinese rivals. Samsung Electronics plans to launch 89- and 101-inch micro-LED TV models soon, following the launch of a 110-inch model last year, while LG Electronics recently completed radio wave certification for its own micro-LED TV technology and is planning to release a new product soon.

However, such expansion plans may take a hit due to environmental regulations in Europe, the largest premium TV market. Under the new rules, the two companies must cut the energy consumption of 8K and micro-LED TV by at least half within the next six months to sell their products in Europe. But the industry sees this as technically impossible.

[Source : LG Electronics]

8K TVs have four times as many pixels as 4K TVs. Since the pixels are extremely dense and the area that transmits light is small, more power is required to achieve the same brightness as that of 4K.

The industry is concerned that it will become increasingly difficult to fend off Chinese rivals as regulations go tighter during a severe market downturn.

The global TV market is projected to decrease in both value and quantity this year compared to the previous year. According to global market research firm Omdia, global TV sales in the first half of this year already contracted by 6.6 percent on year to 92.6 million units. In terms of value, the market size fell by 12.5 percent from a year ago.

TV makers could lower the luminance of 8K TVs to meet the regulations, but this would compromise the image quality significantly, making consumers turn away from such premium TVs.

The local TV industry demands a government-level response to the issue, while Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) says it is trying to negotiate with the European Union regarding the new regulations.

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