Samsung has inadvertently revealed plans to introduce its most giant QD-OLED TV yet — an 83-inch model — by early 2025. As shown through Samsung’s own parts database, references to model numbers for 2025 indicate that a flagship model, the Samsung S95F, could be unveiled at CES in January.
This model would replace the current S95D and jump past an “E” designation, sparking excitement for an expanded QD-OLED lineup. However, a twist may concern potential buyers: the 83-inch S95F is slated to be offered with QD-OLED and W-OLED panels, extending the “panel lottery” to Samsung’s premium OLED series.
Panel Lottery Expands to 83-Inch Models
Dubbed the “panel lottery,“ Samsung’s strategy involves offering the same TV model with different panel types. For the upcoming S95F, Samsung’s parts database lists separate codes: FAE for W-OLED and FAT for QD-OLED. This echoes Samsung’s approach in its 2024 S90D model, where identical TV models shipped with different types of display technology, potentially leading to differences in picture quality based on the luck of the draw.
While this approach allows Samsung to manage production and supply chain costs, it can lead to consumer inconsistencies. Those who purchase the S95F with QD-OLED panels could experience the superior brightness and color accuracy the technology is known for. At the same time, those receiving the W-OLED version may notice differences, especially in contrast.
Why an 83-Inch QD-OLED Matters
Expanding to an 83-inch size brings Samsung’s QD-OLED tech closer in competition with LG’s popular W-OLED displays, which already have a presence at that size. Until now, Samsung’s QD-OLED TVs have been capped at 77 inches, so this larger model opens up options for home theater enthusiasts seeking expansive screen real estate with the color vibrancy and contrast that QD-OLED provides.
Interestingly, this move could also mean a broader QD-OLED offering from other brands, as speculation suggests Sony may include the new 83-inch panel in its 2025 TV lineup. Sony’s A95 series, which uses QD-OLED technology, could benefit from the size increase, giving it an edge in the high-end market.
What to Expect at CES 2025
If the leak holds, the Samsung S95F and its 83-inch option will likely debut at CES 2025. At this annual event, Samsung typically unveils its TV lineup for the coming year, and industry watchers anticipate a comprehensive look at the 2025 QD-OLED and W-OLED models. As usual, leaks leading up to CES are expected to fill in the finer details, including official pricing and features.
In an era where screen size and panel quality are increasingly central to buying decisions, adding an 83-inch QD-OLED model is an exciting development. However, the dual-panel approach will require consumers to be vigilant about checking specifications, especially if QD-OLED’s unique characteristics are a deciding factor.
A Size Boost and the Trade-Offs of the Panel Lottery
The arrival of an 83-inch QD-OLED TV could help Samsung maintain its competitive edge against LG, but the panel lottery may be a sticking point for some buyers. For customers seeking the best in display quality, panel type can make a noticeable difference, and introducing this variability in a premium lineup may need to be clarified for consumers or create dissatisfaction among those who prefer one panel type over the other.
The ultimate question will be whether consumers value the expanded size enough to overlook the panel uncertainty. For Samsung, balancing performance consistency with flexible supply options is critical, and it remains to be seen how this strategy will impact customer satisfaction and brand perception as more details unfold in the coming months.
Source: flatpanelshd.com
