Researchers have developed a method to generate sound directly from OLED displays, eliminating the need for traditional speakers. By vibrating specific areas of the display panel, they create audible sound waves. This technology allows for thinner devices, multi-channel audio output (like surround sound), and potentially invisible, integrated speakers within the screen itself. The approach utilizes the inherent flexibility and responsiveness of OLED materials, making it a promising advancement in audio-visual integration.
TCL is betting on "NXTPAPER" screen technology, which aims to mimic the look and feel of paper for a more comfortable reading experience. This technology utilizes multiple layers of reflective material to enhance contrast and reduce blue light, creating a display that appears brighter in sunlight than typical LCDs while maintaining low power consumption. While not e-ink, NXTPAPER 2.0 boasts improved color gamut and refresh rates, making it suitable for not just e-readers, but also tablets and potentially laptops. TCL aims to expand this technology across its product lines, offering a paper-like alternative to traditional screens.
Hacker News commenters discuss TCL's NxtPaper display technology, generally expressing skepticism about its widespread adoption. Some doubt the claimed power savings, especially given the backlight required for color displays. Others question the "paper-like" feel and wonder if it truly offers advantages over existing e-ink or LCD technologies for typical use cases. A few commenters express interest, particularly for niche applications like e-readers or note-taking, but overall the sentiment is cautious, awaiting real-world reviews and comparisons to determine if the technology lives up to its promises. Some also discuss the history of similar display technologies and their ultimate lack of success.
Summary of Comments ( 58 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44112149
Hacker News users discussed the potential applications and limitations of the new OLED-based audio technology. Some expressed excitement about its use in AR/VR headsets, transparent displays, and automotive applications, praising the elimination of bezels and improved immersion. Others were more skeptical, questioning the audio quality compared to traditional speakers, especially regarding bass response and maximum volume. Concerns about cost and longevity were also raised, with some speculating about the potential for burn-in issues similar to those experienced with OLED screens. Several commenters also pointed out the technology's similarity to bone conduction headphones, noting potential advantages in noise isolation and directional audio. Finally, a few users mentioned existing piezo-based solutions for thin displays and wondered how this new technology compared.
The Hacker News post titled "High-quality OLED displays now enabling integrated thin and multichannel audio" generated several comments discussing the technology and its potential implications.
Several commenters expressed skepticism about the practicality and market viability of the technology. One commenter questioned the claimed advantages over traditional speaker setups, pointing out the limitations in bass response and overall sound quality that a thin-film speaker would likely have. They also expressed doubt about the technology being able to deliver a true multi-channel audio experience. Another user raised concerns about the longevity and durability of such integrated speakers, especially considering the potential for damage to the screen itself affecting the audio output.
Another line of discussion focused on the potential applications of this technology. While some saw it as a potential boon for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, enabling slimmer designs and potentially eliminating the need for separate speaker components, others questioned whether the marginal gains in thinness were worth the potential trade-offs in audio quality. One commenter suggested that the most promising application might be in wearable displays, like AR/VR headsets, where space and weight are at a premium.
Some commenters also discussed the technical aspects of the technology, questioning how the researchers achieved the claimed performance and expressing interest in the underlying materials and manufacturing processes. One user, referencing experience with similar technologies, speculated that the audio quality would likely be "tinny" and lack depth.
Finally, a few comments touched on the potential impact on accessibility, with one user suggesting that the technology could be beneficial for individuals with hearing impairments by allowing for personalized audio delivery directly to each ear.
In summary, the comments reflected a mixture of excitement, skepticism, and pragmatic analysis of the potential of this new technology. While some saw it as a promising development with a range of potential applications, others remained unconvinced of its practical benefits and long-term viability.