TV trends to expect at CES 2018

Next-gen display and voice control technologies are among the hottest features predicted for TVs at the event.

CES 2018 is drawing closer and the excitement is building up. Among the most anticipated fast-moving product lines to be showcased at the event are TVs. From cool unveilings to trends, a lot of reviewers, analysts and the media have been putting out their expectations. Many predict that innovations will revolve around the screen and smart home compatibility, just like CNET Editor and TV/home entertainment gear reviewer David Katzmaier. Here are some TV types and features he sees to prevail at the upcoming event:

1. 4K and HDR mainstream - Production of small TV sets that are not 4K have been discontinued by some makers. Low-quality HDR is expected to be adopted more for smaller and inexpensive TVs.

2. Local dimming - HDR TVs that go bright and dim at different screen angles are increasing in supply and may be a common distinguishing feature for low-end price segments.

3. Voice-controlled TVs - Voice assistants have been everywhere recently. From phones to speakers to cars and more, including TVs. Now, more TVs will be able to work without remote controls. The owner just needs to voice out commands to popular AI assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home which are built into TVs or smart speakers and hubs.

4. TCL goes big - TCL is poised for growth and leading the pack of China TV manufacturers. Releasing more next-gen models, the company gained an increase in US market share in the last two years according to market research company NPD as cited by CNET. It continues to catch up with Vizio, LG, Sony and Samsung.

5. More OLED TV makers - The year 2017 saw many OLED high-end market entrants and 2018 might get more makers to jump into the said trend.

6. Micro LED and QLED vs OLED - OLED, being the current hottest screen technology, will have more competitors in the form of micro LED and QLED units. Micro LED is a technology that can do away with the LCD panel while QLED is said to have advantages in brightness, screen size and vulnerability to burn-in.

7. Streaming apps - Just like voice control, wireless interaction with TVs is made easier than ever also through development of apps.