Sharp has made a significant move in the television market by announcing the release of their first-ever Roku TV with an OLED display. This marks a departure from their previous LCD panel sets, which they have produced exclusively since the program’s launch in 2014. The new Aquos OLEDs come in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes, and boast impressive features such as Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, and four HDMI ports that all support variable refresh rate (VRR) for smooth 4K 120Hz gameplay. In addition, the Aquos OLED sets are equipped with a 30-watt speaker system and full Dolby Atmos compatibility.
One of the standout features of these newly announced TVs is their ultra-slim design. Being an OLED display, these TVs are incredibly thin, providing a sleek and modern look for any living room or entertainment space. The sophisticated design is matched by high-quality display technology, promising an immersive viewing experience for consumers.
The ease of use and intuitive interface of Roku TV software is another major draw for the Aquos OLEDs. With the same user experience as a Roku streaming device, buyers can expect universal search functionality, several years’ worth of OS updates, and a homescreen that is constantly evolving to put a focus on free-to-stream content. A voice remote is included with the TV, and the Aquos OLEDs support Apple AirPlay, HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home for seamless integration with popular smart home ecosystems.
Although Sharp has not positioned these TVs as aggressively priced options, with the 55-inch model priced at $1,499.99 and the larger 65-inch version at $1,999.99, the company faces stiff competition from established Roku TV favorites such as TCL and Hisense known for offering exceptional TVs at relatively lower prices. It is worth noting that the 55-inch Aquos OLED is priced similarly to a mid-range LG OLED, suggesting that Sharp is prioritizing premium quality over aggressive pricing.
In comparing the Roku TV program to Amazon’s competing Fire TV program, it’s interesting to note that Amazon has not offered an OLED model in the United States. While Sharp has taken the initiative to release an OLED TV with the robust and user-friendly Roku operating system, Amazon has yet to make a similar move. In 2019, Grundig released an OLED TV internationally, indicating that the market for OLED TVs is expanding globally.
This move by Sharp not only expands their product range, but it also signals a commitment to innovation and quality in the television industry. By integrating the advanced OLED display technology with the popular Roku TV platform, Sharp’s Aquos OLED models offer a compelling option for consumers seeking a high-quality viewing experience with a seamless and user-friendly interface. Additionally, the availability of major streaming services and smart home integrations makes the Aquos OLEDs a versatile addition to any home entertainment setup.
As the television market continues to evolve, the introduction of OLED technology and advanced features in the Aquos OLEDs demonstrates Sharp’s dedication to meeting the growing demands of consumers. By embracing the latest display technology and integrating it with a user-friendly operating system, Sharp’s position in the TV market is set to become even stronger.