25 Years of Innovation: The Evolution of TV
Over the last 25 years, the world of television has undergone a remarkable transformation
From the imposing CRT televisions of the past to today's ultra-slim, smart, and high-definition displays, the advancements in TV technology have been revolutionary. Television has also evolved from a simple medium for watching broadcast content to a central home entertainment hub. With the introduction of HDTV, online video platforms, streaming services, and smart TVs, viewers now have more choice over their viewing experience than ever before. This transformation has changed how we watch and interact with television, making it an integral part of our daily lives. TCL has been at the forefront of this journey in Europe and beyond, driving innovation and redefining the viewing experience for millions of households.
1998 - 2000
1998 - 2000
The Introduction of HDTV
The introduction of High-Definition Television (HDTV) revolutionised picture quality by providing viewers with crystal-clear images and vibrant colours. HDTV laid the foundation for subsequent advancements, setting a new standard for home entertainment. The first TV programme ever broadcast in HD was the launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery and John Glenn’s return to space.
2004
2004
Mass Production of LED TVs
In 2004, the mass production of LED TVs marked a significant milestone, driving a global shift in television technology. These thinner, more energy-efficient displays replaced the voluminous cathode ray tube (CRT) screens, offering improved picture quality and a more modern aesthetic. The transition from bulky designs to sleek, flat screens made televisions an integral part of home decor, saving space and enhancing the visual appeal of living rooms worldwide.
Mid-2000s
to Late 2000s
to Late 2000s
Mid-2000s
to Late 2000s
to Late 2000s
The Evolution of Flat Screens
As flat-screen technology became more affordable, the era of the heavily built box TV faded, giving way to thinner, wall-mounted displays which became an interior design revolution. This evolution saved space and made it possible to integrate televisions seamlessly into any living environment, turning them into statement pieces rather than mere appliances.
2007 – 2010
2007 – 2010
Smart TVs and Streaming Services
Another groundbreaking development was the integration of smart technology and internet connectivity into TVs. Popular streaming platforms have transformed viewing habits by enabling streaming directly on TV, eliminating the need for additional devices. This shift made accessing a vast content library more convenient and revolutionised media consumption. The first major on-demand streaming services appeared in 2007, soon expanding globally. During this period, TV evolved into a crucial component of the home ecosystem, comparable to PCs and mobile phones, by integrating internet connectivity and smart technology.
Early 2010s
to Mid-2010s
to Mid-2010s
Early 2010s
to Mid-2010s
to Mid-2010s
Advancements in Resolution: From 2K to 4K
The advancement from 2K to 4K resolution has enhanced picture quality, offering incredibly detailed and lifelike images. These technologies make viewers feel like they are part of the action, providing an unparalleled visual experience that continues evolving. The first 4K Ultra HD channel in the world was Eutelsat which launched in January 2013 and entered mainstream the following year. With the rise of 4K resolution, the technology enabled more and more consumers to recreate a cinema-like experience at home.
2010-2015
2010-2015
The Short-Lived Era of 3D TV
The first 3D TV launched in 2010 aimed to bring a new dimension of cinematic experience into the home. While 3D technology didn't become a staple in home entertainment, it paved the way for future innovations in immersive viewing experiences, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
Late 2000s to Present
Late 2000s to Present
Sound Technology Enhancements
Sound technology has also seen significant improvements. The development of soundbars has complemented the visual advancements in TVs, providing a cinematic audio experience that makes home entertainment more immersive. Soundbars, with features like Dolby Atmos, deliver rich, multidimensional sound that envelops the viewer, creating an auditory experience that matches the stunning visuals. Adding their integration with smart home systems, soundbars provide a perfect balance of convenience, performance, and style. TCL has developed a wide range of TV models with integrated soundbars, enhancing the audio experience by combining high-quality sound directly within the television unit.
2019
2019
Rise of Mini LED Technology and the introduction of very large screens
In 2019, TCL pioneered the mass production of QD-Mini LED TVs, a significant milestone in display technology. Mini LED technology uses hundreds of thousands of tiny LEDs to provide finer backlighting control, significantly improving contrast and brightness. This development has enhanced the viewing experience with vibrant colours and deeper blacks, aligning with TCL's mission to inspire greatness. Mini LEDs are about one fortieth the size of normal LEDs. The superior picture quality offered by Mini LED technology has enabled TCL to develop and introduce very large screens, such as the 115X955, launched in 2024.
FUTURE GAZING: THE NEXT 25 YEARS OF TV TECHNOLOGY
Olivier Semenoux, Head of Product Management at TCL Europe shares insights on what the next 25 years might hold for TV technology:
Looking ahead, several key trends are expected to shape the future of TV technology. Higher resolutions and better contrast are anticipated to become standard, enhancing the clarity and vividness of the viewing experience. Additionally, features like eye protection are likely to be integrated more broadly, reflecting a growing focus on viewer comfort and health.
Another notable trend is the shift towards larger TV screen sizes. This change aligns with advancements in picture quality technologies that make it possible to deliver stunning visuals on jumbo-size screens, creating more immersive viewing experiences. TCL has emphasised that most technology investments are dedicated to developing high-end picture quality to magnify very large screens.
The scope of display technology is also expanding beyond traditional TVs. Innovations in display technology are being applied across various devices, from smartphones and tablets to digital signage and monitors, ensuring a high-quality visual experience across different platforms and use cases.
Emerging technologies such as Mini LED, and Micro LED are expected to drive future advancements. These technologies promise to push the boundaries of display performance, offering brightness, contrast, and colour accuracy improvements. TCL is at the forefront of these trends through continuous innovation in Mini LED and Micro LED technology as well as exploration of future technologies such as RGB Printed OLED.
Overall, the future of TV technology is exciting, with ongoing innovations aimed at delivering more immersive, comfortable, and high-quality viewing experiences across various devices and settings."
The scope of display technology is also expanding beyond traditional TVs. Innovations in display technology are being applied across various devices, from smartphones and tablets to digital signage and monitors, ensuring a high-quality visual experience across different platforms and use cases.
Emerging technologies such as Mini LED, and Micro LED are expected to drive future advancements. These technologies promise to push the boundaries of display performance, offering brightness, contrast, and colour accuracy improvements. TCL is at the forefront of these trends through continuous innovation in Mini LED and Micro LED technology as well as exploration of future technologies such as RGB Printed OLED.
Overall, the future of TV technology is exciting, with ongoing innovations aimed at delivering more immersive, comfortable, and high-quality viewing experiences across various devices and settings."
TCL Celebrates 25 Years of Innovation
Reflecting on the last 25 years of TV technology developments, TCL considers its own significant contributions. From pioneering mass-produced LED TVs in 2004 to leading advancements in 4K and 8K resolution, TCL has been at the forefront of making high-quality, cutting-edge technology accessible to consumers. Celebrating this milestone, TCL continues to push boundaries with innovations like Mini LED and NXTPAPER technology, underscoring its commitment to enhancing the viewing experience for years to come.
Most recently, this includes the launch of TCL’s NXTFRAME TV, revealed to European audiences at IFA in September. This is more than just television; it's the future of digital art and entertainment in the home. For the first time, art, design, and cutting-edge technology come together in a single, elegant package.
Most recently, this includes the launch of TCL’s NXTFRAME TV, revealed to European audiences at IFA in September. This is more than just television; it's the future of digital art and entertainment in the home. For the first time, art, design, and cutting-edge technology come together in a single, elegant package.
