Samsung Expands Cinema LED Reach with New 14-Meter Onyx Display
Samsung Electronics is pushing the boundaries of the theatrical experience by introducing a new 14-meter standard size for its Onyx cinema LED lineup. Unveiled at CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas, this expansion aims to bring high-conclude LED technology to larger Premium Large Format (PLF) auditoriums, offering an immersive alternative to traditional projection.
Scaling the Premium Cinema Experience
The cinema industry is currently seeing a shift toward larger-format auditoriums as exhibitors strive to provide “destination” experiences that home theaters can’t replicate. Samsung’s new 14-meter (46 feet) model is specifically designed to meet this demand, allowing for more efficient use of theater space and optimized seating layouts.
Hyoung Jae Kim, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics, noted that given that viewers visit premium theaters for experiences they can’t recreate at home, the quality of the screen is the critical starting point for the entire auditorium experience.
Evolution of the Onyx Lineup
Since its debut in 2017, the Onyx platform has evolved to fit various theater sizes. The 14-meter model joins a growing family of standard sizes, including:
- 5-meter model: Tailored for boutique theaters.
- 10-meter model: Designed for premium auditoriums.
- 14-meter model: Optimized for larger PLF environments.
While these models vary in size, the platform is scalable up to 20 meters to accommodate specific theater needs.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The 14-meter Onyx display maintains the core performance and reliability of its smaller predecessors while scaling the image for a larger audience. Key technical highlights include:
- Visual Fidelity: The display features a 3mm pixel pitch and supports HDR technology for superior brightness.
- Motion and Resolution: It supports up to 4K resolution at 120Hz, ensuring smooth motion and sharp imagery.
- Contrast and Color: The LED technology delivers deep blacks, rich colors, and striking contrast ratios that surpass traditional projection.
Key Takeaways for Exhibitors
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 14-Meter Standard Size | Ideal for Premium Large Format (PLF) theaters. |
| Scalable Design | Flexible scaling up to 20 meters for maximum immersion. |
| LED Technology | Superior contrast and deep blacks compared to traditional screens. |
| High Refresh Rate | 4K at 120Hz for seamless, high-quality motion. |
The Future of Cinema LED
With the introduction of the 14-meter format, Samsung is positioning LED displays as a viable and scalable replacement for traditional cinema screens in large-scale environments. By combining industry-leading reliability with the ability to scale up to 20 meters, the Onyx platform is helping exhibitors redefine the premium moviegoing experience.