Audience expectations of the cinema experience have evolved significantly in recent years. Today, viewers expect image quality that aligns with contemporary production and post-production standards – with accurate color reproduction, high contrast and visual consistency that preserves creative intent. At the same time, cinema operators are challenged to future-proof their technical infrastructure while integrating formats such as HDR in a meaningful and sustainable way. This is where Samsung Onyx comes in.
One response to these requirements is LED-based cinema display technology such as the Samsung Onyx Cinema LED display (ICD series). Designed specifically for cinema environments, the system introduces new possibilities for image reproduction, presentation quality and operational consistency.
LED technology as an alternative to traditional projection
Unlike conventional projection systems, Samsung Onyx relies on self-emissive LED technology. The display supports resolutions up to 4K with a refresh rate of 120 Hz[1] and achieves peak brightness levels of up to 300 nits[2]. This enables bright image areas to remain clearly visible without color washout or loss of detail.
Deep blacks, an almost infinite contrast ratio, and high color accuracy enable nuanced image reproduction across the full brightness range. Especially in high-contrast scenes, this results in more precise detail reproduction – an aspect that is increasingly relevant for both filmmakers and audiences.
HDR in cinema: consistent implementation of modern workflows
As HDR content becomes more widespread, its reliable presentation in cinemas is gaining importance. Modern cinema displays must not only support extended brightness and color spaces technically but also reproduce them consistently in real-world screening environments. Systems such as Samsung Onyx are increasingly designed to support HDR workflows from mastering through to on-screen playback.
This approach helps ensure that creative decisions made during production and post-production remain visible in the cinema environment, strengthening the connection between artistic intent and the final audience experience.
Flexibility for different auditorium layouts
In addition to image quality, flexibility is a key consideration for cinema operators. Samsung Onyx is available in four standard screen sizes – 5, 10, 14 and 20 meters – and can be scaled beyond these formats to accommodate a wide range of auditorium dimensions.[3] This adaptability allows cinemas to optimize screen size without compromising visual performance.
The system is also compatible with established cinema audio solutions such as Dolby Atmos, Meyer Sound, QSC and JBL, enabling integration into existing sound infrastructures.
Digital experiences beyond the auditorium
Modern display technologies are not limited to the screening room itself. Digital signage solutions enable cinemas to enhance visual communication in lobby and service areas. Energy-efficient color e-paper displays[4] can be used to present programmed information or advertising content and are centrally managed via the Samsung VXT device and content management platform.
Additional Smart Signage displays can be deployed for menu boards, trailers or brand communication, creating a consistent visual experience throughout the entire cinema journey – from arrival to the start of the film.
Display technology is increasingly shaping the way audiences experience cinematic stories. As production standards continue to evolve, solutions like Samsung Onyx illustrate how image reproduction, brightness and color accuracy can be aligned more closely with creative intent. For cinemas, this opens new ways to present content in a technically consistent and visually compelling manner – supporting the medium of cinema as it adapts to changing audience expectations.[5]
[1] Based on the internal data bandwidth of the screen. Actual frame rates may vary depending on the connected IMB.
[2] Peak brightness is supported when using DCI-HDR-supported IMB.
[3] All measurements in metres refer to the screen width, while all measurements in inches refer to the diagonal. The 10-metre Onyx screen is available now, with the remaining models being introduced gradually.
[4] Thanks to advanced technology, color e-paper consumes significantly less energy than many other digital signage devices, especially when displaying static images. This can result in direct cost savings. The 4,600 mAH battery also offers high energy efficiency.
[5] The quality of film screenings may vary depending on the region and cinema.
