LG has announced the start of sales of the world’s first 8K OLED TV (model 88Z9) with pre-orders for the 88-inch set starting this week in South Korea. Availability in the US and Europe will follow in the third quarter of the year. The new TV includes a panel with over 33 million self-emitting pixels at a resolution of 7,860 x 4,320 – four times that of UHD – with a wide viewing angle, an “infinite contrast ratio” and true blacks.
The 88Z9 uses the company’s second- generation α (Alpha) 9 Gen 2 8K intelligent processor, which allows the chip to optimize content by recognizing source quality and applying the best algorithm for viewing. The processor also achieves 8K upscaling with improved noise reduction up to 6-steps from 4-steps in the 4K version, which in turn promises the “most life-like” 8K picture when upgrading from 4K (3,840 x 2,160) or 2K (1,920 x 1,080) sources.
An included audio algorithm means 2-channel sources can be up-mixed to deliver “convincing” virtual 5.1 surround sound, while the TV can also automatically set optimal sound levels to suit a particular environment, or allow consumers to make adjustments themselves. Dolby Atmos processing is also on board the unit, and the TV supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K content at 60fps, automatic low latency mode (ALLM), variable refresh rate (VRR) and enhanced audio return channel (eARC). In some markets, although not revealed yet, the LG 8K OLED TV will offer built-in versions of both the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
“Being the first to market with the world’s first and largest 8K OLED TV shows our commitment to leading the ultra-premium TV segment and delivering the ultimate viewing experience,” said Brian Kwon, president of the Mobile Communications and Home Entertainment companies at LG. “LG was a pioneer in bringing OLED to market and we will continue to introduce state-of-art TV technologies that push the boundaries of what’s possible in home entertainment.”
Please let us know in the comments below if you’re planning to purchase one of these behemoths.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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