Last week, LG unveiled its new 77-inch transparent OLED panel. The futuristic visions of large transparent screens that are clear to use and non-invasive when not in use like those seen in the 2002 hit movie Minority Report are now feasible.

The Features of LG’s New OLED Panel

Thanks to OLED technology, the screen is flexible, so it can be made to fit numerous geometries. The panel can be rolled up from its extended 77 inch diagonal size to a radius of just over 6”. Additionally, it is 40% transparent according to LG, so it can be integrated into benches, windows, and the like to provide aesthetic or technical accents. The screen also has an Ultra HD resolution of 3840×2160. As The Korea Herald reports, LG thinks the display has a future in digital signage, desks and in-car infotainment systems. However, at this stage, the project is still at a research stage, and possesses a price tag too large for consumers. For comparison’s sake, the last version of LG’s large scale OLED panel cost more than $20,000.

What Is OLED?

OLEDs (or organic light-emitting diodes) are a type of LED that use organic materials. The OLED panels are made from organic (carbon-based) materials that emit light when electricity is applied through them. Unlike LCD displays, OLEDs (and LEDs) do not require a backlight and filters. This translates to simpler architecture and manufacturing methods which lead to thinner displays. The technology LG has developed has permitted these screens to become so thin and flexible that they can be rolled. Additionally, OLEDs have a great picture quality – “brilliant colors, infinite contrast, fast response rate and wide viewing angles”.

OLED technology is one of the most promising technologies, which aims to augment signage in public and private areas. Today, OLED panels can be seen in some of Seoul’s most modern buildings. For example, according to Dave Hynes at Sixteen:Nine, “The elevator that takes visitors to the observatory level of the Lotte World Tower skyscraper in Seoul is lined floor to ceiling, AND ceiling, with OLED displays that, for the minute-long ride up, immerse people in scenes of the Korean mega-city.”

The future of signage and displays is quite exciting, and LG’s latest display is a sign of what will be coming in the future.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.