Samsung just kicked off its 2024 Southeast Asia Tech Seminar in Bangkok, Thailand, showcasing its latest and greatest TVs that are packed with cutting-edge AI features. This isn’t your average “turn the TV on” situation – we’re talking smarter pictures, sharper sound, and even some cool lifestyle features you won’t find anywhere else.
Building on their 18-year reign as the go-to TV brand, Samsung is all about bringing that “Screens Everywhere, Screens for All” vision to life. Remember those amazing TVs it showed off in Frankfurt back in February? Well, the company showed them off along with some new lifestyle products that are sure to turn heads.
So, what exactly is all this AI buzz about? Let’s dive into the highlights:
Neo QLED 8K Gets a Brainy Boost: Brace yourselves for mind-blowing visuals! The 2024 Neo QLED 8K boasts the all-new NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor. Imagine this: 512 neural networks (that’s eight times more than the previous version!) working together to deliver the most vivid and precise picture you’ve ever seen. Plus, features like 8K AI Upscaling Pro and AI Motion Enhancer Pro take things a step further, ensuring everything you watch looks smoother and sharper than ever before.
OLED Gets Glare-Free: Samsung’s 2024 OLED TV upscales content to a stunning 4K resolution, powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor. But here’s the real kicker: they’ve also introduced OLED Glare Free technology. Certified by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), this innovative tech cuts down on-screen reflection, letting you enjoy your favourite shows and movies without any annoying distractions.
Music Frame: Your Frame, Your Speaker: This one’s pretty cool. Imagine a picture frame that doubles as a speaker. That’s the Music Frame! Pop in a photo you love, hang it on the wall and enjoy high-quality sound that blends seamlessly with your décor. Plus, you can even pair it with another Music Frame for a true stereo experience.
Security Matters: Samsung hasn’t forgotten about security. Their Knox technology, now applied to Samsung TVs, has achieved a “Common Criteria” certification recognized by 31 countries. This means your TV is even more secure in terms of software and hardware, keeping your information safe and sound.
“We’re thrilled to showcase these cutting-edge AI TV technologies at the Tech Seminar,” said Yongjae Kim, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “It’s not just about the tech – it’s about giving our customers the best possible viewing experience and making sure their information is always protected.”
So, whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just looking for a smarter way to watch your favourite shows, Samsung’s latest AI-powered TVs are definitely worth checking out. Keep an eye out for more details on these innovative new products!
Samsung’s new OLED and QLED TVs for 2024 are headed your way. This year, like its S24 series, AI is the mainstay. Behind these new AI features are a new duo of processors: the NQ8 AI Gen3 processor and the NQ4 AI Gen2 processor. Both of the processors bring a slew of improvements that help power a better, more immersive experience with Samsung’s new QLED and OLED TVs respectively.
Samsung’s new NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor comes with improvements that allow for better upscaling of content to 8K resolution. The processor brings double the NPU performance and allows for quicker on-device AI processing. Samsung is leveraging this to bring better depth and detail to upscaled content. This includes increased contrast for better image depth and visual immersion and even intelligent audio processing for better content immersion. The processor will be included in Samsung’s flagship Neo QLED 8K TV specifically the QN900D lineup. The QN800D will be running on the NQ8 AI Gen 2 Processor. However, both lineups will be coming with 8K resolution and be available in 65, 75, and 85-inch sizes.
Samsung’s new Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED and OLED TV lineups are leaning heavily on AI. This year, AI is playing a part in three main categories: AI Picture, AI Sound and AI Optimisation. We’ve already covered the main features of AI pictures.
AI Sound comes with Samsung’s Q-symphony feature and also its robust line up of new soundbars and frame speakers. The AI Sound will be able to dynamically adapt to provide the best. most immersive sound with the content on the screen. One of the highlights is dialogue enhancement where the TV can intelligently detect and optimize the audio to isolate and lift dialogue for clarity. It will also be able to generate on-screen subtitles which can be moved through gestures for the auditorily impaired. Sound is also optimised with Adapt Sound Pro which automatically adjusts to fit your content while Object Tracking Sound Pro will ensure your sound emanates from the objects on screen giving you a more realistic and immersive sound experience. Both AI Picture and AI Sound will also automatically adjust the volume and brightness of your TV according to the conditions of the room. If your room is being vacuumed, the volume will be increased so you don’t miss a thing. Watching in a dark room? The brightness and contrast will be optimized for the most immersive experience.
AI Optimization comes with Auto Game mode this year. The new feature will allow your Samsung AI TV to kick on game mode, increasing the contrast and brightness of your display to give a more immersive gaming experience without the need to open menus. It will do this automatically when you turn on your gaming console. It will also play a part in helping keep your setup more green with AI Energy Mode which automatically optimizes the TV’s power profile based on your usage.
The same features are also coming to Samsung’s OLED and NEO OLED TV lineup. However, the biggest difference will be that these lineups will be running on the NQ4 AI Gen2 processors. The processors offer significant performance enhancements over its predecessor. Samsung is also introducing Glare Free technology in its OLED lineup that will ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy your content even under harsh lighting.
Samsung’s TV lineup continues to run on its Tizen OS. This year, the company continues to push interconnectivity and IoT with the TV as the main interaction surface. The new generation of Samsung TVs will be able to intelligently interact with your Samsung phones to allow you to control your TV or even game using Samsung’s built-in Gaming Hub. It will also allow you to control other IoT devices through the SmartThings App and dashboard.
While Samsung hasn’t announced any availability details just yet. We won’t be surprised to see the new lineup make its Malaysian debut in the near future.
Samsung’s Smart Monitor lineup created quite a stir when it was announced in 2020. The new monitors delivered a remote work experience that was seamless and did away with the need for bulky desktop setups. It brought a new approach with a sleek, self-contained environment that was able to run crucial apps like Microsoft 365 and the Google Productivity Suite. Albeit, the latter was run via Samsung’s DeX feature. However, these monitors made us rethink the monitor and how we’re using them.
Source: Samsung
Running on Samsung’s Tizen OS – just like their Smart TV counterparts – the Smart Monitors brought a suite of ready-to-go apps that not only made the need for laptops moot, it also made sure that work from home was a viable reality in the midst of chaotic times. They also allowed space-restricted quarters to become more efficiently used with built-in entertainment apps such as Netflix, YouTube, Samsung TV+, Amazon Prime Video and more.
This year, Samsung is looking to refine their approach even more with a refreshed line up of Smart Monitors. All three of the models that make up their lineip – the M5 (M50C), M7 (M70C), and M8 (M80C) are being refreshed with better specifications and wide connectivity options.
Source: Samsung
The new models up the maximum resolution to 3,840×2,160 pixels (4K UHD). This appears in both the 32-inch and 27-inch models of the M8 and M7 models while the M5 model comes with a 1,920×1080 (FHD) resolution. All of them come with in the 16:9 aspect ratio and come with built-in speakers.
The Smart Monitor M8 and M7 have adopted a new Iconic Slim Design. They sport super slim builds that measure 11.39mm at the thinnest point. They also sport a chic herringbone pattern on the back. The biggest difference, however, is the inclusion of a height-adjustable stand with tilt support on both models. Both still support 99% of the sRGB color gamut.
Source: Samsung
That said, the M8 has a slight edge over the other monitors with a bump to 4K UHD resolution with support for HDR10+ and 400 nits brightness. In regions where its supported, Samsung’s Gaming Hub is also available on the Smart Monitors. The M8 also comes with a SlimFit camera which attaches magnetically in the box. This camera supports FHD resolution and creates a standalone video conferencing experience. You will be able to use apps like Google Meet and Zoom seamlessly with the camera and leverage the auto framing feature to ensure you’re always front and center for your online meetings.
Mouse and Keyboard support have also been baked into multiple apps with the launch of the 2023 lineup of Smart Monitors including SmartThings and Smart Hub. The monitors also come with remote controls which charge via USB-C in the box. The Microsoft 365 and the Browser apps are now able to be used simultaneously in splitscreen view to reduce window switching thanks to an upgraded Multi View experience.
The monitors are also able to connect seamlessly to an in-home IoT setip with SmartThings. Samsung has also built-in support for platforms like Zigbee and Thread. The M8 and M7 support voice assistants including Amazon Alexa and Bixby. They also support far field voice with a built-in mic that allows users to speak directly to the monitors. Together with this, Samsung is also introducing a new My Contents features which allows users to quickly access helpful information. It can even connect to a verified smartphone in standby mode via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and lights up with the users pictures in the smartphone. Once the smartphone is out of range, the monitor goes back into standby.
Source: Samsung
The monitos come in a brand new range of colours that allow you to make it blend in or stand out in your room. With options for Warm White, Sunset Pink, Daylight Blue and Spring Green on the M8; Warm White on the M7 and Black and White for M5, users are free to choose a colour and model that fits their needs and personality.
Pricing & Availability
The new 2023 line of Smart Monitors will be available in stages starting in June 2023. No local Malaysian price has been announced yet. However, in the U.S., prices are as follows:
Samsung only recently made their global WOW announcement promising even deeper immersion and a wider range of experiences with their new Neo QLED televisions. The new Neo QLED TVs are also joined by a new lineup of soundbars and QLED TVs.
The new lineup of Neo QLED TVs comes with Samsung’s Infinity Edge design which minimizes the bezel of the display to insane levels. In fact, this year’s Neo QLED TVs don’t have a bezel at all. You literally see only screen from edge to edge sitting in front of the TVs. The bezels are so minimal – only visible at the bottom where Samsung has packed the sensors.
Both QLED and Neo QLED TVs come with Samsung’s Q Symphony technology which creates an immersive audio experience with Samsung’s Q series soundbars. This is achieved by using the TV’s built-in speakers in symphony with the Q series soundbars creating a wide, Dolby Atmos-certified soundscape that takes the viewer deeper into the content that they’re consuming. This feature is now available even with entry-level Neo QLED TVs.
Together with this, Samsung TVs continue to bring its TizenOS-based operating system. This OS runs on the latest generation of Samsung’s Neural Quantum Processor 8K. The software, paired with the processor brings intelligent, AI-enhanced features that bring even more detail and an even more immersive experience. This includes intelligent upscaling of any content to take advantage of the 8K resolution of the TV. They also come with an AI-enhanced Gaming mode that not only detects when you turn on your console but also changes to the appropriate input and unlocks performance mode with a 120Hz refresh rate on compatible models. With apps like Samsung Health, you’ll be able to access workouts and exercise programs that you can do right from the comfort of your living room.
Samsung’s SmartThings also takes center stage on the new lineup of Neo QLED and QLED TVs. Not only does it appear on your SmartThings app, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of your larger screen to control and customize your other SmartThings compatible devices. With the recent integration with Matter, you’ll be able to connect devices across multiple brands on the larger screen of the TVs. What’s more, if you’re setting up the TV from a Samsung smartphone, you’ll simply need to sign in with your SmartThings or Samsung account and you’ll have your settings seamlessly installed and synced.
Pricing & Availability
Samsung’s 2023 lineup of Neo QLED TV lineup is currently available at Samsung stores and at retail partner stores.
Samsung’s 2022 Neo QLED TVs are finally making their way to Malaysia after their announcement in January at CES 2022. The new lineup brings an extensive list of enhancements focused on enhancing the entertainment experience as well as adapting one of the most ubiquitous screens to your lifestyle.
Calvert Yap (Head of TV, Audio Visual, Samsung Malaysia), Jimmy Tan (Head of Consumer Electronics, Samsung Malaysia), Edward Han (President, Samsung Malaysia) and Sunghwan Joo (Director of Audio Visual Division, Samsung Malaysia) at the launch gambit of the Neo QLED 8K TV
The new Neo QLED TVs come with a new Neo QLED 8K processor which ups the ante when it comes to image quality. The new Neural Quantum Processor 8K has been enhanced with a new algorithm called the Real Depth Enhancer. This dynamically scans the screen and maximizes the contrast between the object and the background of the scene making the object pop. It also adds a level of clarity and makes the image more realistic in a natural way. Samsung’s Neo QLED TVs are using also a lot more dynamic and reactive as the screens are able to create localised dark zones with the Mini LED technology. The increased precision allows for better, more realistic details and a more natural image as contrast and back-lighting is controlled on a per pixel basis. This year’s QLED TVs are also the first to be PANTONE verified for colour accuracy.
Together with the enhanced technology of the Neo QLED TVS, Samsung is also introducing features that will allow the TV to adapt to its users seamlessly. The TVs now come with features that will not only allow you to be more immersed in your content but also adapt to your work environment. The new line up of Samsung Neo QLED TVs come with features such as Google Duo which will allow you to take and make video calls from the TV with a webcam. In addition to that, DeX is also making its big screen debut and will allow you to use you screen as desktop for remote work. It will also bring a seamless second display experience that will help you get things done more efficiently.
Jimmy Tan (Head of Consumer Electronics, Samsung Malaysia) and Edward Han (President, Samsung Malaysia) showcasing the Neo QLED 8K Flagship TV
With accessories like the webcam, the new Neo QLED TVs are here to help you get in better shape. Samsung is bringing even more features that will help you exercise and get fit with your TV. In fact, you’ll be able to get tips on how to improve your form straight from the TV as you workout. Of course, sometimes we prefer working out while watching our favourite shows, with Multiview, you’ll be able to watch up to 4 screens at the same time. So, you’ll be able to watch your stocks, Netflix, workout and be on the video call all at the same time.
There’s a whole lot of improvements that have been baked into the new 2022 Samsung QLED TV lineup – you’ll be able to get the full breakdown in our coverage of the CES announcement.
Pricing and Availability
Samsung’s Neo QLED TVs are already available in Malaysia together with the updated versions of their lifestyle TVs: The Frame, The Serif and The Sero.
Last year Samsung launched something of a game changer, in our opinion. It has nothing to do with gaming, or entertainment, to be fair. It has more to do with work than anything else.
In November of 2020, Samsung introduced the world to their first ever desktop monitor that is also outfitted with Tizen OS. Effectively also, the particular monitor is Samsung’s first smart monitor. They introduced the world to what is effectively a 4K smart TV in a 32-inch desktop monitor form factor. They called it the Samsung Smart Monitor M7. They also introduced two Full HD variants called the M5 series.
To be fair, there is not that much in terms of choice with Samsung’s Smart Monitors at launch. You get to choose between two sizes for the Full HD variant and no choice at all if you want the 4K UHD variant. That has changed this year though.
Samsung Smart Monitor M7 43-inch
Source: Samsung
Source: Samsung
Source: Samsung
Source: Samsung
Samsung has just introduced a 43-inch variant of the 4K UHD M7 series Smart Monitor and 24-inch variant of the Full HD M5 series Smart Monitor for 2021. On top of that, they are also introducing a new white colour option for the existing M7 and M5 models. Now you can really spice up your workspace at home.
The 43-inch Smart Monitor M7 (43M70A) is technically similar to the 32-inch model. It features a 4K UHD resolution for starters. It also supports HDR10, not exactly HDR10+ of their high-end TVs to be fair, but good enough for you to enjoy a variety of contents. Like the 32-inch variant, the 43-inch M7 is also a VA panel desktop monitor, which also means you are not necessarily getting a premium OLED experience.
Still, VA panels are bright and vibrant enough for a high colour accuracy, especially for making quick work of simple video and photo editing work. While it only boasts 60Hz in refresh rate, that is good enough for something like a PS4 Pro. Even the new gaming consoles can easily take advantage of the 4K resolution.
Samsung Smart Monitor M5 24-inch
Source: Samsung
Source: Samsung
Source: Samsung
On the smaller scale end, the M5 now comes in a 24-inch variant (24M50A). Unlike the 4K UHD 43-incher it launches with, you get an IPS panel with the 24-incher though. Even its bigger 27-inch and 32-inch M5 siblings are fitted with VA display panels. That also means that the Full HD 1080p panel should display images with great colour contrast and highly accurate colours. It is also an HDR10 display to ensure you get the best out of Tizen OS. It only refreshes at 60hz though. Then again, it is not a gaming monitor.
The new Smart Monitors M7 and M5 both are Wireless DeX enabled too. That also means that if you have modern Samsung Galaxy device with wireless DeX enabled, you do not even need to get extra cable to connect to the display. You do not even need to get your PC to connect to your smartphone for it. The Tizen OS fitted monitors are also Apple AirPlay 2 enabled, so even if you are on an iOS device, it will work for you too.
Like a Smaller, More Productive Smart TV
Samsung’s Smart Monitor M7 and M5 also comes with a modern SolarCell solar powered remote. The smart remote is very much like your Samsung Smart TV remotes and functions with Voice command like one too. Additionally, you do not have to replace any batteries, just leave it under the sun near the window to keep it charged.
Tizen OS also means that you get access to Netflix, Prime Video, and the upcoming Disney+ app without even needing to connect to a PC, or smartphone. In that case, your enjoyment is also not limited to your supporting hardware. With TV Plus, you get access to selected live and on-demand contents for free. This technically can be your TV if you have limited space.
You can plug your PC in via USB Type-C Thunderbolt connection (43M70A). If not, you have the benefit of HDMI 2.0. DisplayPort is not technically necessary for this display. The 43-inch monitor can also double as your USB hub as well with 3 additional USB ports. The 24-inch has one additional USB port for an added working flexibility.
What makes the Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5 though is the fact that you can work with Microsoft 365’s PC on screen. It is technically a remote PC technology that allows you to access your Microsoft 365 suite from the display, even if your PC is not necessarily plugged into your monitor. All you need is a Microsoft 365 account and internet connection.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5 is already available in select regions. Malaysia is not part of those select regions though. Currently, the 32-inch M7, 32-inch M5, and 27-inch M5 are available in Malaysia from MYR 1,188 (RRP) onward. For more information for the newly released Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5, do head over to Samsung’s website.
Android Wear or Wear OS as it was renamed a few years ago has been a little anaemic when it comes to updates; that is until NOW. Google took the stage at I/O 2021 to announce what could be the biggest and most important update to Wear OS: Google and Samsung are partnering to push Wear OS to the next level. The announcement confirms rumours which have been making their rounds for months.
Source: Google
The new partnership sees Samsung bring their know-how, expertise and features from their successful Tizen OS to Wear OS. As the companies put it, they are bringing “the best of their platforms together into one unified experience”. So what does this mean exactly? Well, the biggest change is that Samsung’s next Galaxy Watch will be shipping with Wear OS instead of Tizen OS. While this might seems like Samsung will be leaving their older watches behind, the company reassures its users that Galaxy Watch and other Tizen OS powered wearables will be receiving updates and support for at least 3 years after their launch.
Improvements Under the Hood
That aside, the new collaborative Wear OS approach also brings a slew of improvements that will not only be improving the user experience but also making developing for Wear OS a lot easier. The collaboration’s biggest improvement comes in its improved load time. Google is touting a whopping 30% improvement in app load times. In addition, Samsung and Google have made improvements to the lower layer of Wear OS to improve battery life. If you’ve used Wear OS smartwatches, you’d know that battery life can be an issue with them.
Source: Google
Google and Samsung have optimised background processes, making them more efficient and less intensive on the processors. In fact, processor-intensive processes like continuous heart rate monitoring have been optimised to use lower power cores to conserve power. This also opens the doors to more power-efficient features for wearable devices. Samsung has also helped with power efficiency with its bundled sensors which allow them to include more than one sensor in a single module.
More Diverse User Experience
Aside from improvements under the hood, the improvements are also creating a more diverse user experience. Manufacturers are now allowed to skin the operating system to have a more unified look across their devices. This also means that we might see slightly different experiences from manufacturers like Tag Heuer, Fossil and even Samsung will have their own design language when it comes to the user interface for their wearables. Google is expecting that the new customizability will result in a more diverse Wear OS ecosystem.
Google is also opening up more features in the OS to developers. Developers will be able to bring features like tiles to their apps. They have also integrated development for Wear OS into Android’s Development Studio. They are creating a more unified development experience across Android and Wear OS with a single touchpoint for development. Development is also made easier with Google’s Jetpack development suite which allows developers to call and implement API more readily. In addition, they are bringing Kotlin APIs to Wear OS.
Wear OS is also getting more focused on health with help from Samsung. Developers will be able to create new apps and improve their current apps with a more streamlined and simplified work flow. This comes thanks to the new Health Services platform which allows developers to retrieve data without building from scratch. Developers are able to take advantage of continuous data from the sensors and other contextual metrics without impacting the battery life of the device too much.
New Apps, Better Experience
Finally, these improvements directly impact how the OS performs and how accessible apps will be for the platform. The most direct improvements that users will be benefiting from is improved navigation on wearables. Google is bringing simple improvements like a double-tap to jump to your most recent app and even simpler swiping gestures to access your information.
Source: Google / Double Tap for Recent App
Source: Google / Tiles
Google is starting the ball rolling with updates coming to its core apps like Google Maps, Google Pay, Google Assistant and YouTube Music. The first change that will be coming to these apps is the adoption of the new “Material You” design. In addition, Google Maps will be getting better, more visible turn by turn navigation to help with using the app on the go. There are plans to take Google Maps offline. The same applies to YouTube Music as well. Google Assistant and Google Pay will be getting improvements as well. The latter will be making its way to 26 countries in the next few months while the former will become more user friendly on Wear.
It isn’t just Google that is improving its offerings. Spotify has revamped its experience on wearables; allowing users to seamlessly move on the go. The simplified interface allows users to not only control their music but also seamlessly switch between speakers and their Wear OS device. Other companies like Nike, Calm and Adidas have been working on revamping their experiences on OS. Fitbit will also join the Wear OS family. Wear OS apps will also be more visible on the Play Store with a dedicated section and recommendations.
The new Wear OS will be making its way to the market in the coming year. Current Wear OS devices find out if they are getting the big update in the coming months.
Samsung’s wearables have been one of the company’s many boons when it comes to software and functionality. If you’ve been following the wearables market, Samsung’s Tizen OS has quickly become one of the more functionally stable operating systems in the market. However, there’s always been a looming cloud over Tizen as Samsung’s own Galaxy devices come equipped with Google’s Android OS.
Twitter user and prolific leaker, @UniverseIce tweeted on Friday that Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Watch would be replacing its well thought out Tizen OS with Google’s Wear OS. If true, the switch would seem to benefit Google’s floundering Wear OS more than Samsung’s Galaxy Wearables lineup. It would also make Samsung one of the biggest names behind the OS aside from FOSSIL, Casio, and Skagen.
Samsung's new watch will use Android to replace Tizen.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series has seen much success in previous years thanks to its design and impressively thought-out software. This change seems to be rather uncharacteristic for Samsung given the popularity of the devices and also the company’s recent thrust for its SmartThings platform. That said, Samsung’s move to embrace Google’s services isn’t anything new. We’ve seen it in recent years with Bixby slowly taking a backseat to Google Assistant in the company’s OneUI.
That said, Samsung could very well be looking at offering a whole new series of smartwatches built for Wear OS. The other possibility is the company introducing a Wear OS version of the upcoming Galaxy Watch. This would bolster the number of the devices in Samsung’s Galaxy Ecosystem and create a new offering for those who have shied away from Samsung’s wearables for so long.
While highly unlikely, this could be an indication that Wear OS has finally reached a point where Samsung is comfortable putting it on their devices. There have been many limitations when it came to both Tizen and Wear OS. However, the former has consistently been able to keep up with new features and better customizability.
The television isn’t just a screen to consume content anymore. Over the years, the screen has become more of a multi-dimensional surface which isn’t just about multimedia. Some use it to keep in touch, some use it to escape the world while others use it as a statement piece in their homes. So what happens when a company invests more time and effort into making a screen that doesn’t only serve it’s interactive purposes but also helps users create that statement piece to pull a room together? Well, in short: you have the Samsung Serif.
The Serif joins a line up of Smart TVs that occupy a unique niche they’ve come to call “Lifestyle TVs”. This line up with initially started with Samsung’s The Frame TVs is now populated by The Serif, The Sero and The Frame – each built with a unique feature to set them apart.
So, how does The Serif set itself apart? Is it worth an investment? Should you even care about it? Those are some of the questions we’re looking at with the in-depth review of The Serif.
Design
When it comes to design, The Serif is bound to turn heads. Samsung worked with renown design brothers, Ronan and Ewan Bouroullec. The Bouroullec brothers brought a fresh, innovative take on the TV and how it can be used in any room as a statement piece. It takes the drab, reflective rectangle and breathes new life with a unique, head turning design.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Samsung Serif, is its side profile, which, like its name suggests highlights the features of the “I” in serif. The curved top and bottom portions of the TV not only act as design accents but also provide some functionality – as a sturdy base in the case of the bottom, and as a surface for your trinkets in the case of the top. In addition, the design accents actually provide some relief from glare resulting from light sources in the room.
That said, the Serif is designed to stand out. Its unique “I” design is complemented with a heavy, and I mean HEAVY, base. This allows you to stand it anywhere – a feature we delve into further later in the review. It goes without saying that the overall design language of the Serif will make it stand out no matter which room it is in. We got to review a white coloured Serif – the only colour available in Malaysia at the moment and it was the first thing that caught your eye as soon as you walked into the room. The TV is available in Black and Red in other countries.
The unique, understated design of the Serif creates a sense of drama which is apt for an entertainment surface. However, it is also designed in a way that you’re not hard pressed to place the TV against a wall. It has a cohesive design which leaves no port exposed thanks to a panel on the back which ensures that there are no exposed surfaces which are jarring to the eye.
Features
Stand anywhere & hide cables away
As mentioned earlier, the design of the Serif allows you to stand it anywhere. The bottom surface of TV is weighted with a heavy, thick metal base to provide stability. In fact, the TV is stable enough that even a sudden, hard jerk to the TV won’t send it toppling over. It’s thanks to this stability and weight that the Serif is able to be placed on any surface independently.
However, if you don’t want to place it on a table or mantle, you can also stand the TV independently. The Serif also comes with stilt legs which can be screwed into the base. This allows you to stand it independently.
In addition to being able to stand alone, the Serif also comes with a built-in cable management system. This starts with the back of the Serif where a backplate made of plastic and covered in fabric hides the HDMI, USB, Antenna port and more. These cables are then channelled through a hole in either end of the Serif. Through this hole, the cables are run along the nearest stilt leg with a plastic clip; keeping the mangle of cables clean and managed.
While convenient, Samsung’s approach to cabling and wire management in the Serif seems counter intuitive and dated. In fact, it is contrary to the approach Samsung has been pushing in its own QLED flagships with the single cable and connectivity box. The biggest gripe we had with the design of the cable management is the fact that the design tucks away the ports of the Serif, making them inaccessible – particularly the USB port which you are likely to use most often for pictures and other multimedia. To access this port, you need to pry open the back panel and replace it. Not too tedious but if you place it against a wall, this would mean that you have to move the whole TV to access the ports.
NFC tap to Play (Music) & Dynamic Wallpaper
One of the features that we ended up using most when reviewing the Serif was the Tap to Play feature. This NFC powered feature allows you to simply tap your NFC enabled device to connect wirelessly to the TV and play music from any of your installed apps. We mention music specifically cause it’s the only media you can use the feature with. You can’t play videos or project pictures using the Tap to Play function. That said, the Tap to Play function is also able to wake the TV. All you have to do is place your smartphone or tablet on the top of the Serif at a specific position. This is subtly marked for easy identification by an NFC logo.
In addition to this, the Serif comes with Dynamic Wallpapers which allow the screen to show you useful information when you’re not using it for entertainment. The default wallpaper comes with the date, weather, and clock. The dynamic wallpaper is also a key component of the Tap to Play function. It pulls up a wallpaper which response to the beats of the song you’re listening to. It also changes the visual ambience based on the genre you’re listening to.
Samsung’s Tizen OS, BixbY & SmartThings
Samsung’s continues to use its Tizen OS on the Serif. That said, they have optimised it to be less intrusive and more functional than ever. Of course, these improvements came with their flagship QLED TVs. However, it’s nice to see that even models like the Serif are getting the same software.
Tizen OS is lightweight and responsive on the Serif. It actually makes setting up the TV pretty easy with your smartphone through the SmartThings app. Simply connecting the TV on the SmartThings app and setting up the TV from your phone removes most of the tedious setup such as setting up WiFi. The SmartThings platform allows you to import your settings from your smartphone to the TV directly without needing to type your passwords on screen.
After setup, the SmartThings App also allows you to use an on-screen remote control on your smartphone to control the Serif. This control extends to Samsung’s own smart assistant, Bixby. While you need to hold down the voice control button when you use the remote control. If you’re on a Samsung device, a simple “Hey Bixby” allows you to get the Serif to launch your favourite apps or shows on screen.
The Serif also supports Apple AirPlay 2, so if you’re on a Apple device, you’ll be able to connect and access your content just as easily. Perhaps where Tizen OS shows Samsung’s focus on software compatibility is when it comes to Screen mirroring. It goes without saying that Samsung’s own devices are smooth as butter. However, when it comes to other brands such as Apple and the dreaded wireless mirroring on Windows, the Samsung Serif has been one of the most reliable and stable we’ve reviewed to date.
Picture & Sound Quality
The Serif comes with a 4K UHD QLED panel – one of Samsung’s forte’s when it comes to displays. It remains the same with the Serif. The panel that Samsung is using for the new lifestyle TV is bright, saturated and has good contrast. Blacks are deep and whites are bright but not jarring. That said, the panel did have a slightly darker tint compared to other QLED TVs we’ve seen before.
Just like in its flagship QLED TV line up, the Serif also comes with software enhancements for its picture quality. It has a smoothing feature which is supposedly able to make motion less jerky and fluid. This feature was pretty effective on animation content. When we watched show like Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away or Netflix’s Dragon Prince, motion was more fluid, and the viewing experience was more enjoyable. However, when it came to acted content such as The Resident or even The Hamilton Musical, movements were fluid but there was a significant amount of ghosting happening. Actors’ looked like they had their spirits leaving their bodies while they were moving. Of course, this is easily remedied by simply turning the functions off.
One of the best features on the Serif is Samsung’s intelligent mode for picture and sound. This function learns your viewing behaviours and adjusts the settings according to your preferences. In our review case, we were turning the brightness down in dark situations to reduce eye strain. Once the preferred brightness level was set, the Serif intelligently returned to it every time the sensors detected a drop in ambient light. It also helped compensate for levels between the default and preferred setups. The Serif does also come with an ambient sensor which helps with the intelligent setting.
When it comes to audio, the Serif has one of the better speaker setups built in. Unlike some other TVs, this TV has proper speakers built in. The speakers are clear and crisp for dialogue and have good frequency range. It was able to reproduce a good amount of low frequencies and high ones. This led to a rather enjoyable sound experience on its own. In fact, during our review period, the volume rarely went above 20.
A Functional, Well Designed, Functional Statement Piece for Any Room
The Samsung Serif is one of the more unique Smart TVs out there. It’s design allows you to accent any room with a statement piece which will undoubtedly become the focal point of the room. That said, the design of the Serif also allows it to seamlessly blend into room – if the design requires it. However, the smart TV’s design isn’t without its flaws particularly when it comes to port accessibility. Keeping them under a panel is aesthetically pleasing but when it comes to utilising them it becomes tedious. This is particularly true when it comes to the USB port.
That said, it does provide a unique overall package complete with good speakers, great picture quality and a bevvy of features. This creates a unique, compelling proposition looking for a smart TV that can double as a statement piece in any room. However, being slightly higher on the price side of things at MYR6,499, the Serif makes a tough proposition for those of us not looking for a design-centric TV. In fact, put side by side with Samsung’s flagship line up at the same price point it can seem a little anaemic and gimmicky when it comes to features. That said, the minimalist and functional design does win it some brownie points. Overall, it’s got us on the fence. It would be amazing if Samsung’s next Serif brings even more technical features to make it a more complete and compelling offering at its price point.
Samsung is bringing TizenOS to its popular monitor line up. The South Korean company, Samsung has unveiled a brand new line of innovative Smart Monitors. It touts the new line up as a do-it-all screen that will be able to seamless transition from work to play; perfect for the realities of today’s work and education climate. The monitors can connect to PCs, mobile devices, and even work independently.
The new Samsung Smart Monitor comes in two variations: the 32-inch M7 model and the M5 line-up consisting of 27-inch and 32-inch models.
Built for Work & Learning
The Samsung Smart Monitor M7 comes with a 32-inch UHD display with 4K resolution. It supports HDR10 and has a 178-degree viewing angle. The M5 Smart Monitor line-up comes with a lower resolution FHD display. That said, it still sports HDR10 support.
Both models come with a variety of connectivity options. The M7, being the higher specc’d model comes with an additional USB-C port which supports data, display and power (65W). Aside from that, the Smart Monitor M7 and M5 share the same connectivity options which include HDMI 2.0 ports, USB 2.0 ports, WiFi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), and Bluetooth 4.2
Source: Samsung
Running on TizenOS, the Samsung Smart Monitor comes built in with wireless connectivity options that work well with smartphones as well. This includes Tap View, App Casting, and even Apple AirPlay 2. Samsung’s DeX can also work wirelessly with the Smart Monitors.
The monitor is able to work independently without input from a PC or smartphone source as well. When it comes to productivity, users will be able to run Microsoft’s Office 365 suite independently over WiFi.
Seamlessly Adapted for Entertainment
It’s not all work when it comes to Samsung’s new Smart Monitors. The display comes with Samsung’s Smart Hub to for all your content streaming needs. You can access apps such as Netflix, YouTube, HBO without a connection with your PCs or smartphones. You’re able to navigate the interface with the provided remote control or, if you so please, using Samsung’s Bixby voice assistant.
Source: Samsung
The Samsung Smart Monitors also comes with Adaptive Picture. This allows the monitor to intelligently optimize picture quality according to the environment. It will automatically adjust color temperature and brightness according to surrounding conditions to help reduce eye strain. The monitors also feature a special eye-saver mode to reduce blue light.
Pricing & Availability
The Samsung Smart Monitor is now available in United States, Canada and China with availability in other countries coming by the end of November.
The M7 will be retailing at USD$399.99 (MYR1,635.07) while the M5 will be retailing at USD$229.99 (MYR940.148) for the smaller 27-inch variant and USD$279.99 (MYR1,144.57) for the 32-inch version.
