The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will once again showcase the latest advancements in television technology. While flashy prototypes often dominate headlines, the most significant changes will likely impact picture quality and affordability for the average consumer. Here’s what to expect from CES 2026, and why it matters.
The Rise of Mini-LED: Improved Quality at Every Price Point
For years, TV technology improvements have been incremental, but 2026 will see a major push for mini-LED backlighting. This technology – using thousands of tiny LEDs to improve contrast and brightness – is no longer limited to high-end models. Brands like Hisense and TCL have already demonstrated that mini-LED can deliver substantial picture quality gains even in budget televisions.
This is a crucial development. Mini-LED makes high-performance LCD TVs accessible to a wider audience, rather than just those willing to spend premium prices on OLED. Innovations like TCL’s “Halo control” – designed to reduce image blooming – prove that even incremental improvements can dramatically enhance the viewing experience. Expect competitors like Samsung to follow suit.
Micro RGB Backlights: The Next Step in Brightness
The brightest TVs on display at CES 2026 will feature micro-RGB backlights. Unlike micro-LED displays (which are still prohibitively expensive), these backlights use microscopic red, green, and blue LEDs to create intensely bright screens without the need for color filters.
This approach allows for higher brightness and improved contrast, and manufacturers like Samsung and LG are already preparing to launch models ranging from 55 inches upwards. The promise of brighter, more vibrant images at reasonable prices is a key trend to watch.
OLED Evolution: Brightness Gains & Affordability Challenges
OLED technology continues to evolve, with manufacturers focusing on increasing brightness. LG’s “four stack” panel design (layering two OLED panels) demonstrates the potential for brighter OLED TVs, rivaling the luminosity of LCD models.
However, OLED faces a challenge: affordability. Entry-level OLED models (like the LG C-series) have seen minimal upgrades in recent years. To compete with the improving value of mini-LED, OLED manufacturers need to deliver brighter panels across their entire range, not just the high-end. Tweaks to voltage and filters could help make this happen without drastically increasing production costs.
Beyond the Tech: HDR & Economic Factors
Advances in high dynamic range (HDR) standards like Dolby Vision 2 and Samsung HDR10 Plus Advanced will further enhance the impact of brighter screens, making compatible movies and games more immersive.
However, economic factors remain a wildcard. Tariffs and inflation have already affected tech prices in 2025, and the impact on 2026 models is uncertain. While manufacturers rarely reveal pricing at CES, expect a delayed reveal as they navigate global market conditions.
The bottom line is that CES 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for television technology. The focus is shifting toward delivering tangible benefits – better picture quality and lower prices – rather than just chasing gimmicks. Consumers can expect brighter, more affordable TVs than ever before, with mini-LED and micro-RGB backlights leading the charge.
