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Samsung is preparing a major change to its TV lineup. According to Korean ETNews, production of LCD televisions using quantum dots is set to fall this year from around 10 million to just 2-3 million units. That would represent a reduction of up to 80%. However, this is not an official announcement signalling the end of QLED.
QLED production set to slow sharply
According to industry sources, Samsung has significantly cut 2026 production of LCD TVs that use a quantum-dot layer. Last year, 10 million such units were expected to be produced, while this year’s plan calls for only 2-3 million. An interesting question is the future of the Neo QLED range. It is a more advanced variant of Samsung’s LCD TVs, employing Mini LED backlighting and quantum dots. Reports say production of these models will also be reduced, by roughly half compared with current levels. Leaks suggest Neo QLED production could even be discontinued entirely in 2028.
This does not mean abandoning quantum dots
There is one very important thing to note. Reports of a reduction in QLED production do not mean the end of quantum dot technology in Samsung televisions. QLED is primarily a term used for LCD televisions fitted with a layer of quantum dots. It is not a separate display type like OLED. Samsung continues to use quantum dots in QD-OLED panels. This technology remains one of the development directions for televisions in the premium segment. Any potential withdrawal of QLEDs would therefore primarily affect conventional LCD televisions.
Is Samsung changing direction?
One of the reasons cited is the growing competition from Chinese manufacturers. Companies from China offer QLED TVs at more attractive prices, making it harder for a brand such as Samsung to maintain its current position in this segment. Samsung is therefore shifting the emphasis in its product range. In the mid-range it emphasises Mini LED TVs, while at the top end the company continues to develop OLED and an RGB LED backlight solution.
Sources: ETNews, FlatpanelsHD
