Philips Introduces Brighter OLEDs and Enhanced Sound in New TV Models

Philips has unveiled its latest television models for the upcoming year, showcasing advancements in OLED technology and sound integration. The new lineup includes four OLED TVs and two LCD models featuring Mini-LED backlighting. A significant update involves the sound design, where the premium OLED+ 950 model no longer features a separate soundbar, with this component now reserved for the OLED+ 910.

In collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins, Philips has implemented a built-in soundbar within the OLED+ 910 model. Both the OLED+ 950 and OLED+ 910 utilize LG's innovative Meta-3 panel technology, which enhances brightness and color representation. Unlike previous models that incorporated microlenses, the new Meta-3 panels include additional organic light layers, allowing for increased brightness without a corresponding increase in power consumption.

Philips claims that the OLED+ 950 can achieve peak brightness levels of up to 3700 cd/m² with a 10% white image, while a fully white screen can reach 350 cd/m². This distinction between peak brightness and maximum brightness is typical for OLED displays, where higher brightness levels necessitate reduced power supply to prevent overheating.

According to Philips' technology expert, this new panel technology not only enhances brightness but also enriches color vibrancy. The Meta-3 panels are designed to produce purer red, green, and blue colors, which can be more selectively filtered from the emitted white light. Additionally, a new Vanta polarizer has been introduced to minimize reflections on the screen in brightly lit environments.

Differences between the OLED+ 950 and OLED+ 910 extend beyond sound quality, primarily in processing power. The OLED+ 950 features the latest generation of Philips' P5 Dual Engine for image optimization, particularly beneficial in gaming mode for improved visibility in darker scenes. Conversely, the OLED+ 910 is equipped with the current P5 AI chip, which is also present in the more affordable OLED 810 and OLED 760 models that feature slightly less advanced OLED-EX panels.

The OLED+ 950 is available exclusively in 65-inch and 77-inch sizes, while the OLED+ 910 also comes in a 55-inch option. The OLED 760 offers a wider size range from 48 to 77 inches. For those seeking a smaller OLED model, the OLED 810 is available in a compact 42-inch size. All models, except for the PUS9000, known as 'The One,' which is an LCD TV with edge LED backlighting and three-sided Ambilight, use Google TV as their operating system.

Philips continues to support its existing top model, the OLED 959, introduced at the IFA 2024, which utilizes MLA-OLED technology featuring microlenses. However, this model is expected to be available only until mid-next year, as LG Display shifts its production focus to the new Meta-3 technology.

The Ambilight strategy remains a focal point for Philips. The OLED 959 model is equipped with Ambilight Plus, which features uniquely directed lenses for enhanced lighting effects around the display. In contrast, the OLED+ 950 uses a four-sided Ambilight system with traditional LED configurations.

For gamers, Philips has introduced the MLED 950, an LCD TV with locally dimmable Mini-LED backlighting, designed to enhance gaming experiences. This model boasts a 140Hz panel, with the capability to boost frame rates to 240Hz at Full HD resolution. All four HDMI inputs support HDMI 2.1, offering features such as VRR and FreeSync Premium Pro. While the MLED 950 is available only in sizes of 65 and 75 inches, the MLED 910 provides a more affordable option with a simpler Ambilight setup.

Availability for the new models is scheduled throughout 2025, with the MLED 950 expected to launch in September, while the OLED+ 950 will debut at the IFA later that year. Pricing information has yet to be disclosed but is anticipated to align closely with existing models.