Get Ready for AI in Your Next TV: It's Coming, Whether You Like It or Not

There are two distinct types of technology users: those who prefer all-in-one devices, seeking maximum functionality from a single gadget, and those who value specialized devices that excel at specific tasks. Unfortunately, the latter group has faced challenges in recent years, especially in the television market, where the 2024 CES showcased an overwhelming emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). Press releases and presentations were inundated with mentions of AI, highlighting its growing significance in the industry.

At its core, AI stands for "artificial intelligence," which fundamentally signifies a new approach to data interpretation and processing. The 2024 TV announcements at CES demonstrated various innovative applications of AI technology.

"Enhanced processing leads to improved picture quality," stated TCL's vice president of marketing and development during the company's presentation. "It’s simply true."

This sentiment is well-founded. AI-powered upscaling has been around for several years, initially incorporated into devices like Nvidia's Shield TV back in 2017. Now, in 2024, TCL is introducing AI-driven upscaling across its television range, featuring three distinct processors: the AIPQ processor in the S5 and Q6 models, the AIPQ Pro in the QM7 and QM8 series, and the AIPQ Ultra in the impressive 115-inch QM89 television.

Many unveils at CES extended beyond basic content upscaling, which is becoming the standard. "Our Hi-View Engine chipsets are paving the way for a new user experience," remarked David Gold, vice president of Hisense International, during his company's press conference. "Our focus isn’t just on picture quality; it’s about creating tailored experiences for the whole family."

Hisense USA's marketing head echoed this vision, emphasizing the integration of technologies and images to enhance viewer interactions. "These advanced features must work cohesively," he explained, highlighting a state-of-the-art AI chipset employing deep learning to refine the overall viewing experience.

AI technology has significantly evolved from merely enhancing image clarity to more sophisticated capabilities. "Using local tone mapping optimization, the AI evaluates countless image segments," he noted. "Its face detection feature identifies faces in the picture, adjusting them for a more natural look." This indicates that your next Hisense TV may incorporate facial recognition technology, not to identify individuals in real life but to improve on-screen appearances of characters.

LG took a bold approach by positioning AI as a foundational element of its operations, rather than just an isolated feature. "Our envisioned AI brain is a robust system with coordinated processes," CEO William (Joowan) Cho asserted during CES. "It begins with understanding customer needs through interaction and context, analyzing behavior and emotions. Ultimately, this AI engine orchestrates devices to deliver optimal solutions, which we term ‘Orchestrated Intelligence.’"

This ambitious concept includes the capability for LG TVs to recognize individual users by voice, allowing personalized profiles. As Matthew Durgin, vice president of home entertainment content and services, stated, the new Alpha 11 processor empowers LG TVs with user recognition abilities.

Samsung, too, is embracing a comprehensive AI strategy across its product lines. During CES, Jay Kim, executive vice president of Samsung’s Visual Display Business, elaborated on how the company combines traditional computing with graphics and neural processors to create a seamless experience for users.

"Most consumers won't even realize an AI neural processing unit is active," Kim explained through an interpreter. "Instead, they will experience the advantages of such technology indirectly through improved device interactions."

Consistent with Samsung's integrated approach, look for how the AI in one product can enhance the performance of another. "For instance, using the Samsung Health app, while you're working out—performing squats or push-ups—the AI can assess your form," Kim noted. "If there’s an issue, it can provide real-time guidance to improve your posture." The promise of better living through artificial intelligence is fast becoming a reality.