We’re going to break down three concepts related to smart TVs that will help you better understand the device in your living room: WebOS, AMOLED, and POLED. Although they’re often lumped together, WebOS refers to the software in smart TVs, while AMOLED and POLED refer to the display technologies in the device.
WebOS
This is probably the easiest term out of the three because it’s different. WebOS is an operating system used by LG in its smart TVs that allows users to control their TVs. Based on Linux, it’s served as LG’s TV platform for more than a decade and also powers some of the company’s other devices, including its refrigerators and projectors.
WebOS is basically a central hub that allows you to access the device’s different functions and manage your content. Through its main dashboard, you can access the apps on your TV and connect to the Internet and other compatible devices, including smart speakers. It comes with its own browser, which means you can surf the web on your TV.
While you can use WebOS to connect directly to your phone and stream content to your TV, it comes preinstalled with popular streaming apps such as Netflix and Disney+, allowing you to access them directly on the device.
AMOLED
Before we go any further, it’s important to note that both AMOLED and POLED are types of OLED displays. Though they produce different images, they are based on the same underlying technology.
AMOLED is a type of OLED display that stands for Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diodes. Essentially, a screen is composed of millions of diodes that emit red, green, and blue light. When current is applied to the diodes, they give off light. Notably, OLED displays don’t need a backlight and can offer deep blacks and contrast.
An important differentiator in AMOLED displays is that they include thin strips of thin-film transistors in their panels. This allows electricity to move more quickly along the display, producing smoother and more lifelike graphics as well as top-notch color accuracy. AMOLED displays also offer better viewing angles.
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POLED
As we mentioned above, POLED is a type of OLED display. In this case, the “p” stands for “polymer”—specifically, plastic.
Originally, OLED displays were made with glass substrates, which refers to the base material for the electrical components. However, while glass is rigid, plastic can be formed into new shapes. The idea intrigued manufacturers, which began to use plastic to create curved screens and foldable devices. While POLED devices still offer excellent image quality, It’s possible for the plastic substrate to slightly impact color accuracy and contrast.
In terms of the actual TV, POLED devices tend to be more resistant to shattering and weigh less than devices that use glass substrates.
Image | Matthew Rollings at English Wikipedia
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The post Web OS vs. AMOLED vs. POLED: Here Are the Terms You Need to Know When It Comes to Your Smart TV appeared first on Xataka On.
