Television is undergoing an unseen evolution

Let's start with the core of display technology—the panel. While many monitors are still playing word games with specifications, and some projectors are still using "dithering" technology to simulate 4K, TV panels have already undergone several generations of iteration.

OLED technology is no longer a new term, but its evolution speed is astonishing. LG's WOLED panels and Samsung's QD-OLED panels have reached new heights in contrast ratio and response speed. Near-infinite contrast ratio means pure blacks without a trace of light, and a 0.1 millisecond response time means that image ghosting is almost eliminated when playing fast-paced games. More importantly, these new technologies have also made breakthroughs in eye protection—native blue light reduction and DC dimming technology make long-term viewing more comfortable. Some projector technologies that claim to be "eye-friendly" actually fall short when faced with true panel technology.

Meanwhile, another technological route—MiniLED—has made even more remarkable progress. This is thanks to the continuous investment of domestic panel manufacturers. The efforts of upstream companies such as TCL CSOT and BOE have led to an explosion in MiniLED TVs this year.

For example, this year, several stunning products have emerged in the 15,000 yuan price range. The Xiaomi Master 86-inch, TCL 85Q10H, Hisense 85E8K… these models all boast 2304 backlight zones, with peak brightness approaching 3000 nits. What does this mean? The more backlight zones, the more precise the light control, resulting in a more natural transition between bright and dark areas in the picture. This ultra-high brightness not only makes HDR effects more stunning but also solves the problem of insufficient brightness in full-screen bright scenes for OLED TVs.

Simply put, MiniLED TVs are currently racing down two paths: catching up with OLED's contrast performance while leveraging their own brightness advantages to compensate for OLED's shortcomings. This "I want it all" approach has brought TV picture quality to unprecedented heights.

How can an industry rumored to be "eliminated" be so competitive and iterating so rapidly? The answer is simple: market demand has always been there, just become more discerning.

Speaking of which, we must mention the issue of resources. Some people say, "There's too little 4K content, buying a 4K TV is a waste." This view is outdated in 2023.

In fact, 4K content is no longer scarce. Starting around 2018, most movies were released on UHD Blu-ray discs or streamed on 4K platforms. The streaming wars of the past two years have actually spurred more high-quality content. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ have invested heavily in original series and movies to attract users, and this content is almost always released in 4K Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos specifications.

Even Japanese animation, which was previously less focused on picture quality, has started releasing 4K remasters. Not to mention blockbuster movies, 4K versions are practically standard.

If you find international streaming subscriptions too expensive, or don't want the hassle, domestic video platforms also offer a wealth of 4K content. Youku, iQiyi, Tencent Video, and Bilibili TV all have dedicated 4K HDR sections. Taking advantage of promotional offers and subscribing to a membership allows you to enjoy a large amount of 4K content. While the bitrate may not be as high as Blu-ray discs, the picture quality is already stunning enough for most users.

So, what does a modern TV offer?

First, a complete upgrade to the audio-visual experience. Watching a 4K HDR movie on a large screen with the lights off at night provides an immersive experience that smaller screens simply can't match. In terms of sound, many TVs now support Dolby Atmos, and when paired with a soundbar or home theater system, the sound surrounds you from all directions, making you feel like you're actually in the movie scene.

The gaming experience is a qualitative leap. New-generation game consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X support 4K 120Hz output, and when paired with a compatible TV, the action is as smooth as reality. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology eliminates screen tearing, and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) makes controls respond faster. These technologies make TVs competent, even excellent, gaming display devices.

Even everyday use is improved. Modern smart TV systems are becoming increasingly smooth, with features like voice control, multi-screen interaction, and smart home control becoming more sophisticated. The TV is no longer just a device for "watching," but the center of home entertainment.

Of course, television isn't without its challenges. Smartphones and tablets are undeniably more convenient, allowing for use anytime, anywhere. Projectors also have their advantages, especially their ability to deliver a massive screen. However, the comprehensive advantages of television in picture quality, brightness, and ease of use ensure it retains its central position in the living room.

More importantly, television offers a sense of "ritual." When you specifically choose to sit in front of the TV, it signifies a decision to temporarily put down your phone and focus on the entertainment at hand. This focus, in today's world of fragmented reading and endless short video scrolling, has become a luxury.

So, is the television truly obsolete? From a technological development and usage perspective, the answer is no. It has simply evolved, becoming more powerful, smarter, and better suited to the needs of modern people.

Perhaps the next time you consider home entertainment equipment, you can re-examine the television. Go to a physical store to see the new models in person, experience the dazzling brightness of 3000 nits, and feel the smoothness of a 0.1 millisecond response time. You might find that this "traditional" device is no longer what you remember.

For us users, the biggest beneficiaries of this technological race are the ability to enjoy experiences that were merely conceptual products a few years ago, at reasonable prices. While the industry engages in fierce competition, we can simply sit on our sofas, grab a bucket of popcorn, and enjoy the visual feast brought by technological advancements.

Isn't that a kind of happiness?