Like many things that we think of as ‘modern’,such as the electrric car,they are a good deal older than we think.The electric car example,for example,first appeared iin 1888!The Flocken Elektrowagen was a four wheeled open carriage with a 1 horsepower electric motor,a rechargeable lead acid battery and a top speed of 9 mph.The development of the LEDdisplay is not quite as extreme, but nonetheless, the first, it might surprise some to discover that the first LED display was developed in 1968 – some 56 years ago! Initial progress was fairly rapid with a basic monochrome, display shown by James Mitchell in 1977. Polychrome displays took a little longer, with a worldwide shortage of, particularly, blue LEDs. Full spectrum LED displays, based on the work of Nick Holonyak Jr. in those pioneering days of the1960s, established the basic technologies of today’s high-resolution displays. In the intervening period, LED displays have risen to become the dominant display technology, offering higher quality images, deeper blacks,better colour acuracy,wider viewing angles and mproved refresh rates. Turning to current preoccupations, today’s LED digital signage displays offer longer product lifecycles and recent introductions offer the ability to cut power consumption for display of static content – both positive for sustainability.
but nonetheless, the first, it might surprise some to discover that the first LED display was developed in 1968 – some 56 years ago! Initial progress was fairly rapid with a basic monochrome, display shown by James Mitchell in 1977. Polychrome displays took a little longer, with a worldwide shortage of, particularly, blue LEDs. Full spectrum LED displays, based on the work of Nick Holonyak Jr. in those pioneering days of the1960s, established the basic technologies of today’s high-resolution displays. In the intervening period, LED displays have risen to become the dominant display technology, offering higher quality images, . current preoccupations, today’s LED digital signage displays offer longer product lifecycles and recent introductions offer the ability to cut power consumption for display of static content – both positive for sustainability.
The ongoing commercial success of LED digital signage displays has driven continuous innovation, much of which was on show at this year’s ISE show. Paramount for many LED brands and their customers are developments in display image quality, particularly for indoor applications. Traditionally, the solution to generating a more detailed and better-quality image quality, has been to reduce the gap pixel pitch between LEDs. But, some developers are developing alternative strategies. Leyard, for example, displayed solutions using its latest Micro LED technology, particularly the MG2 and MGS series. These products are designed to deliver exceptional display performance, high reliability and durability, specifically to enhance visual experiences in typical indoor applications including meeting rooms, control rooms and large event venues. Virtual production is a market specially addressed by Leyard’s European team with the company’s XR virtual production studio solution, based on OptiTrack motion capture technology. Combining OptiTrack’s high-precision motion capture system with LED displays, enables users to switch between virtual and real environments seamlessly, offering new creative tools for film production, game development and, somewhat optimistically, education. Curved LED walls are another solution brought to market by the Leyard stable of brands. Planar exhibited the Planar CarbonLight CLI Flex 0.9 display, a flexible curved LED video wall that ensures colour consistency and ripple-free, halo-free display effects.
As with most ISE events, Absen presented a range of new solutions including the A series of next-generation products including the KLCOB V2 series, the CPS series and the Smart Screen X136, collaborating with global partners Crestron, Yealink, and Kystar to offer immersive solutions for typical indoor applications including control rooms, meeting rooms, creative commercial displays and digital outdoor advertising (DOOH). The KLCOB V2 series uses flip-chip COB technology, reducing solder points by 40% and eliminating leads, cutting failure rates by 50% and doubling lifespan. The chips directly contact the PCB substrate, significantly improves heat dissipation, reducing energy consumption by 40%, and said to lower maintenance costs by 50%. The product also features magnetic shielding, reducing surface metal dust adsorption by 70% and extending cleaning cycles by three times, with a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits. The Smart Screen X136 is another product to use Micro LED technology with a 4K pixel matrix and UHD resolution, powered by Absen’s image processing algorithm for exceptional display quality. Installation takes only two people one hour, reducing traditional engineering time by 80%. It also includes an 8-core processor, 8GB+128GB storage, and high system processing capabilities, compatible with mainstream audio-visual peripherals and control systems.
Moving to two of the acknowledged leaders in LED, LG and Samsung, the two Korean brands both presented the latest incarnations of products that have been commercially available for some time. LG showcased its recently upgraded LG MAGNIT Micro LED display to meet the growing demand for ultra-high-definition screen solutions among its B2B clients. The new design of the LG MAGNIT Micro LED allows installers to adjust LED module spacing from the rear (done from the front in earlier designs). It also enhances compatibility with content controllers, ensures colour and image quality, and reduces standby power consumption by 98% compared to earlier models, significantly improving energy efficiency. LG’s “transformable” dynamic LED display attracted considerable attention at ISE 2025. Composed of 88 interconnected panels capable of 360-degree rotation, it also featured AI-driven “image transformation”, using generative AI to convert photos into pop art-style images. Rivals Samsung Electronics unveiled its next-generation commercial displays with AI solutions. AI is featured in SmartThings Pro and interactive displays to enhance the intelligence, control and usability of business-focused screens. Samsung also showcased a massive 115-inch smart signage screen, bringing immersive visuals to life. Following last year’s 105-inch QPDX-5K model with a 21:9 aspect ratio, the 115-inch QHFX featured a 16:9 aspect ratio and multi-view functionality (supporting up to four split windows) for simultaneous content display. The QHFX eliminated visible bezels commonly found in traditional video walls, offering QLED 4K resolution, a maximum brightness of 700 nits and Tizen OS 8.0, suitable for various applications such as meeting rooms and luxury retail stores.
SET as a boxout:
Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe commits to sustainability
As another major player in the digital signage market, Sharp NEC took a different tack on signage innovation, majoring on its commitment to sustainability, with advancements in its energy-efficient ePaper technology, developing larger sizes and outdoor-compatible solutions. Bringing all the advantages of digital signage to static poster installations, visitors to the company ISE booth could view and compare the broadening range of ePaper products which deliver outstanding visual quality with a paper-like surface, without consuming energy during content playback. As a digital alternative to paper posters, new sizes are appropriately categorised using the standard DIN paper format: A3 (20”), A2 (28”), A1 (40”) and A0 (57”). Currently on the market in two sizes, the EP-C131 (13.3”) and EP-C251 (25.3”), and new larger sizes will open wider application opportunities. At ISE, the A0-size Sharp ePaper display will be integrated into a totem featuring solar power, battery storage and wireless communication functions. This solution eliminates the need for cabling and is suitable for outdoor signage use. First exhibited at CEATEC in September 2024, this innovative solution for DOOH applications was awarded the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award, in recognition of its outstanding energy saving performance and suitability for displaying emergency information without reliance on a power supply.
Even in very bright environments, the Sharp ePaper display impresses with remarkably brilliant images in full colour, enhanced by ACeP performance. Comparable to paper, there is no blue light nor reflection, creating a very comfortable viewing experience. With no backlight, the ePaper display has no power demands when displaying content and only requires minimal power when content changes. The many possible applications include information boards, point of sale promotions, wayfinding and menu boards – wherever static content changes frequently. Featuring an integrated System on Chip (SoC), the configuration of the device settings and the display of new content is easy and flexible through selected CMS partners or via USB, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, using an intuitive online tool or an app for mobile devices. “The Sharp ePaper display is generating a lot of interest and receiving industry recognition for its significant potential for the carbon-neutral future of digital signage,” explains Martin Lienau, Product Manager at Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe. “We are excited to explore the wide application opportunities for this new technology which prioritizes sustainability by using recycled components and conserving resources, but also delivers the quality, reliability and durability that our customers expect. We anticipate and welcome many interesting conversations at ISE around our Sharp ePaper exhibit!”
Added intelligence
In addition to enhance image quality and size of the display, some brands opted to develop AI-based capabilities. This trend is seen as an opening for less well-known brands as this new range of solutions is believed to be in its infancy, with many more to come. AOTO Electronics is one of these, showcasing multiple innovative solutions covering the LED smart display needs of rental, advertising, sports, and commercial display industries. Key products included the BoRoom enterprise live streaming room, AU series advertising machines and the TV2 transparent LED display. The BoRoom enterprise live streaming room is described as an integrated, cost-effective full-function XR press conference and remote meeting solution. BoRoom is said to be ideal for enterprise virtual press conferences, online and offline forums, live streaming and remote training. It combines AOTO’s self-developed Coruscant virtual production system, Vormir generative tools, and XR high-definition LED screens, integrating AI-generated 3D scenes, automatic tracking, and calibration for vivid and realistic presentations, enhancing brand image and influence. BoRoom’s compact size, colourful interactivity and simple operation make it an ideal choice for improving corporate event performance and cost control. In a nod back to the beginning of digital outdoor advertising (DOOH) sector, AOTO Electronics launched aa series of AU series advertising machines. These feature high brightness for clear visibility around the clock and support dual-sided independent displays with single HDMI windowed content. The advertising machines also incorporate AI energy-saving and low-voltage drive technologies, effectively reducing energy consumption and integrating real-time bus and weather information to enhance the intelligence and informatization of advertising.
With buses in mind, you don’t see a transparent LED display for ages and a whole bunch come along all at once. AOTO Electronic’s entry to the sector came in the form of the TV2 transparent LED display, which, with an ultra-slim design and 80% transparency and described as ‘ideal for storefront windows and building facades’, bringing more innovative applications to the digital advertising industry. For the commercial display and sports sectors, AOTO Electronics also launched the MIP series commercial displays, SID conference all-in-one machines and SP series sports LEDs. The MIP series features deep black display technology (10,000:1 contrast ratio), suitable for high-end brand displays; the SID conference all-in-one machines have a 6mm ultra-narrow bezel, Android system, and wireless projection, enhancing meeting collaboration; the SP series sports LEDs boast an 18,000Hz ultra-high refresh rate, meeting the high demands of sports venues.
Elsewhere in ISE, LP Display exhibited multiple Micro LED products, including the COB Elves, high-end rental LX, 54-inch large-size commercial displays, and the Evapad conference all-in-one machine. This features a 108-inch screen with 2K resolution, supporting ten-point touch, real-time annotation, and an upgraded conference system for multi-party video collaboration, enabling efficient sharing and collaboration. Additionally, LP Display’s 8K main screen uses a full flip-chip COB process at P1.25, increasing brightness by 30% and reducing power consumption by 40% compared to traditional SMD technology. LP Display also launched a new generation of full flip-chip COB rental screens, featuring modular structures, quick assembly, and high durability, suitable for international events, stage performances and other high-end scenarios.
BOE is possibly another unfamiliar name to many, but the company displayed its innovative BYH-COB PRO P0.9, BYH-COB Ultra P0.9, Rental Ease BTY-B P2.9, Commercial Creative Splicing BSL P1.9, and Micro MPD P0.9mm products. The MPD platform is said to represent a significant breakthrough in BOE’s Micro LED technology, using high-transparency packaging to increase contrast by 50% and solve module colour deviation, achieving higher colour temperature consistency and colour reproduction. Optimised soldering technology has improved die-bonding efficiency by 100%, further enhancing display performance. The BYH-COB series features large panel module designs, with single modules reaching 14.5 inches, reducing seams and improving overall image quality, suitable for meeting rooms, supermarkets, and exhibition halls. The BOE-BYH ULTRA, BOE’s high-end customized MLED COB product, uses unique optical film packaging and self-developed high-end anti-glare reflective materials to achieve a contrast ratio of up to 20,000:1 in low ambient light, significantly enhancing display effects. For creative displays, BOE presented its self-developed virtual production solution, which uses MLED screens supporting flexible switching between flat and curved forms, with a refresh rate of up to 7680Hz and brightness of 1800 nits. This solution is suitable for various scenarios, including studio production, university teaching, broadcasting, and exhibition halls, meeting cinematic production and immersive application needs. The virtual production solution features high brightness, high refresh rates, 16-bit grayscale, and a wide colour gamut (DCI-P3 97%), ensuring high-quality visual experiences.
Thinner is better?
GKGD showcased numerous COB products, including a 135-inch smart display all-in-one machine with a thickness of just 19mm, high colour gamut and grayscale display, millisecond response time, anti-glare, support for nine-screen projection and infrared touch. The Crystal Display series 54-inch splicing screens are highly durable and 30% lighter, featuring built-in intelligent control systems, remote operation, 170° ultra-wide viewing angles, and customizable sizes and layouts. A 162-inch 0.93mm pitch COB module screen assembled with diamond boxes uses matte surfaces and full flip-chip technology with intelligent PWM drive technology for dynamic energy savings and IP65 six-level protection. The COB modules also include four series: indoor C series, indoor M series, indoor E series, and channel C series, catering to different application scenarios.
At ISE 2025, AMTC focused on showcasing multiple COB products covering P0.6~P1.86 pitch ranges, targeting high-end displays, commercial displays, creative displays and channel applications. For high-end applications, AMTC presented the TrueColor, ColorPlus, and BrightColor series, featuring high brightness, high refresh rates, and low scan rates. In commercial displays, AMTC showcased a 135-inch P1.56 Crystal Commercial Display all-in-one machine. For creative displays, AMTC exhibited the SmartColor COB TV, creative screens, curved screens, and large modules. Nationstar highlighted the MIP series for ultra-high-definition displays, including MIP-CIMD12, MIP-AIMD19, and MIP-AIMD26 display devices, as well as MIP0606, MIP0404, and MIP0303 display panels. These products, using Nationstar’s self-developed mass transfer method and fan-out packaging architecture, significantly improve photoelectric performance, offering high brightness, high contrast, low power consumption, and strong impact resistance, covering P0.6-P1.5 pitches. They meet ultra-high-definition display needs for security applications, high-end rentals, commercial displays, medium and large meeting rooms, virtual production, high-end TVs, and high-definition movie screens. Nationstar also showcased REESTAR brand products, including RS-1111, RS-1415, RS-1921, and RS-2727, known for high brightness, high contrast, and high reliability, suitable for sports events, traffic monitoring, and landmark buildings. The RS-1111 achieves high-definition display effects for close viewing. Additionally, Nationstar displayed the TBC-C1010MB integrated lamp-drive product, compatible with P2 to P6 pitches, reducing power consumption by 70% compared to similar IC products. This product is mainly used in photoelectric glass, perforated screens, and LED holographic screens, offering high transmission rates, high brightness, and high reliability.
Kinglight showcased high-end fixed installation, high-end rental, MIP, and film application series products, launching the outdoor MIP1010 and high-end fixed installation TF2727 ceramic new products. The TF2727 ceramic product, a recent key launch by Kinglight, is the industry’s first high-end fixed installation product using inorganic ceramic packaging. It features large-size chips, brightness up to 10,000 nits, high UV resistance, excellent heat dissipation, and airtightness, meeting outdoor fixed installation requirements. For high-end rentals, Kinglight introduced the TOP four-in-one high-thrust rental tool, integrating four products into one, significantly increasing pin thrust and improving product stability and reliability. Kinglight also exhibited the Black Crystal 2424 with optimized pin design, the QFN1212 with flat pin design, and the upgraded 1820 black light with high brightness and contrast. For XR/VP applications, Kinglight displayed high-quality customizable solutions, including MC0606, 1415, 2020, and 1010 P3 series products, known for wide colour gamut, high contrast, high consistency, and HDR. Additionally, the 1415 and 1212 XR products, along with the innovative 1515 RGBW with white light design, create a more immersive virtual production environment.
Sinyopto launched a Micro LED 4K ultra-high-definition display screen, co-developed with Hubei Aimaipu Optoelectronics, using mass-produced MIP0202 with Micro LED chips as small as 34*58um. With a substrate-free design and 99% ultra-high black ratio, the contrast and HDR effects surpass traditional Mini LEDs. It supports 178° wide-angle colour-free display and reduced light loss. Sinyopto also revealed plans to launch A-MIP products with integrated driver ICs by 2025. In addition to MIP, Sinyopto showcased outdoor high-brightness energy-saving white/rental black display devices, Mini LED series for outdoor/semi-outdoor small-pitch displays, and next-generation high-end rental display solutions.
Finally, NovaStar showcased 11 cutting-edge solutions, empowering the industry’s innovative development across the board. The solutions include high-end rental 5G large-bandwidth solutions, MLED full-link solutions, MLED full-scenario calibration solutions, adaptive thermal compensation solutions, LED display driver chip solutions, multimedia broadcast control solutions, visual audio-video integration solutions, full-link creative display solutions, LED intelligent broadcast control solutions, dual-engine distributed solutions, and NovaStar cloud service solutions. These cover a comprehensive product system from core chips, control systems, video processing, and calibration technologies to intelligent broadcast control, visualization, and cloud services, empowering the MLED/LED display and related industries. Additionally, NovaStar collaborated with DECO to debut an LED all-in-one machine featuring a millimetre-wave wireless connection solution. This 108-inch LED all-in-one machine is composed of 16 modular units. NovaStar provided the overall hardware control system design, while DECO’s millimetre-wave wireless connection solution was integrated into the system, enabling wireless power and data transmission between the light panels and Hub boards, as well as between the modular units. GKGD was deeply involved from technical R&D to production, optimizing the entire chain to efficiently bring this new product to market.
ISE 2025: pixel innovations
Ross Noonan, Technical Marketing Manager at
LEDStudio gives his perspective on innovations on show at ISE 2025.
ISE 2025 proved to be another eye-opening experience—quite literally. With more LED display vendors than ever before, I found myself wishing I’d packed sunglasses. The show floor was a visual overload, and even for seasoned professionals, navigating the sheer volume of products and technologies can be daunting. Messaging remains inconsistent and understanding ‘what’s what’ and even how different technologies work can be a challenge.
Over the past few years, we’ve seen a major shift in pixel technology, with COB (Chip on Board) emerging as the dominant format for indoor fine-pitch LED. In 2024, 80% of our indoor fine-pitch sales were COB, marking a significant jump from 2023, and our colleagues in the US are now seeing similar momentum. COB’s rise is largely driven by its superior energy efficiency—up to 40% savings compared to traditional SMD- as well as its increased durability. It’s far more resilient during handling installation and even after deployment. Image quality has also improved, with better contrast and visual uniformity.
However, COB does have its drawbacks—chief among them is its lack of repairability. This is where MIP (MicroLED in Package) comes into play. At ISE 2025, MIP was on more stands than ever before, and it’s clear the industry is paying attention. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter?
In short, MIP integrates RGB microLEDs, with each under 100 microns (see Fig. 1) – into a single surface-mounted package, often using a flip-chip configuration with a common cathode setup. Like COB, MIP brings energy efficiency and stunning image quality. But crucially, it’s also repairable, making it a compelling alternative. Another major advantage is brightness. MIP can achieve much higher brightness than COB, enabling us to build high-resolution screens that exceed 4,000 nits. We’ve now integrated this technology into our AEGIS outdoor kiosk range, which supports pixel pitches as fine as P1.2.
From a manufacturing standpoint, MIP is also a game changer. A single SMD package can be used to create multiple pixel pitches (see Fig. 2), unlike traditional methods that require different pixel packages for each resolution. This streamlines production and reduces the number of components needed, and could lead to significant cost savings over time.
What conclusions can we draw from ISE?
ISE 2025 was universally interesting for those planning their route ahead in digital signage. Numerous vendors were able to show screens with improved energy efficiency, with a handful developing e-paper solutions with the potential for zero power consumption except in content transformations. For the future, expect this trend to continue and possibly to develop further in the xR space. Will all of the many brands competing in the signage market survive? Probably not. So, choose your partners well.
