The significance: Blue pixels in OLED displays have historically been less efficient and had a shorter lifespan compared to red and green pixels. LG claims to have solved this issue by utilizing tandem OLED technology and a combination of blue phosphorescent and fluorescent materials. This breakthrough is expected to enhance efficiency and enhance image stability over the display’s lifespan.
LG made waves in 2012 with the release of the first 55-inch OLED TV. OLED technology is renowned for its exceptional image quality and low response time compared to LCDs. However, drawbacks such as high costs and image burn-in have been associated with OLED displays. Burn-in occurs when static images are displayed for prolonged periods, resulting in pixel degradation and the persistence of “ghost” images.
Manufacturers have implemented various strategies to combat burn-in, including pixel dimming and pixel shifting techniques. These methods aim to reduce strain on pixels and prevent static image retention.
The inefficiency of blue pixels in emitting light compared to red and green pixels is a major contributor to burn-in issues. While red and green pixels in some OLED technologies utilize phosphorescent emitters, blue pixels typically rely on less efficient fluorescent emitters. The higher power consumption required for blue pixels to achieve comparable luminance contributes to their faster degradation and subsequent burn-in problems.
LG’s “Dream OLED” tackles this challenge by implementing a two-stack tandem structure that layers the OLED light-emitting elements. This innovative design incorporates both fluorescence and phosphorescent materials for blue light emission. LG anticipates that Dream OLED will result in a 10-20% enhancement in display efficiency, reducing pixel strain and prolonging the lifespan of blue pixels. The blue phosphorescent material for Dream OLED is supplied by Universal Display Corporation, a U.S.-based display material manufacturer.
Also check out: The OLED Burn-In Test: Deliberately Causing It
The concept of tandem OLED technology may sound familiar, as Apple introduced a similar approach in their 2024 iPad Pros. While Apple’s implementation focuses on improving brightness and lifespan, it does not directly address the blue pixel issue. If LG’s efficiency projections hold true, it’s plausible that smartphone manufacturers could be the first to adopt this energy-saving feature.
But when can consumers expect to experience the benefits of Dream OLED? An industry insider states, “We aim to assess performance for mass production within the year and consider commercialization.” While the public may have to wait a year or two to witness LG’s advancements firsthand, the future of OLED technology appears promising.
