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AI Is Taking Over—and TCL Is Quietly Winning the Display War
China’s AI hardware market is expected to exceed 1.1 trillion yuan ($140 billion) in 2025, according to a new report from research firm RUNTO. This marks a 13.4% year-on-year increase and excludes AI smartphones and vehicles. The report also forecasts sustained growth over the next five years, driven by rapid AI integration across consumer electronics. As AI hardware expands, demand for high-end display panels is set to rise sharply. TCL, with its strong presence in the display industry, is expected to benefit significantly.
AI features have already reached deep into the Chinese consumer tech market. AI TVs now account for over 70% of shipments, offering features such as picture enhancement, voice control, and content suggestions. AI laptops make up 50% of available models, and AI tablets account for 76%. Wearables like smartwatches and AI bands have reached over 85% penetration, while AI smart glasses now represent 65% of all smart eyewear sales. AI smart locks and surveillance cameras have both passed the 25% mark.
Analysts expect the AI hardware boom to shift display panel demand toward the high-end segment. Most AI-enabled devices initially launch in premium categories before features expand to lower-tier models. This trend supports higher-margin panel shipments and strengthens the position of suppliers like TCL Technology and BOE, who already lead in advanced display manufacturing.
TCL is also applying AI to improve display production. In June, TCL CSOT launched X-Intelligence 3.0, a vertical AI model focused on reasoning for the display industry. This model supports domain-specific decision-making and can offer solutions that go beyond traditional engineering approaches. TCL uses it to optimize manufacturing processes and improve efficiency.
As AI continues to shape the next generation of consumer electronics, TCL’s investment in both display technology and AI-driven manufacturing gives it a clear advantage in a rapidly evolving market.
In related news, TCL shipments dropped 23% in Q2 2025 amid rising demand for Indian-made smartphones in the US, while Samsung and Sony have just stepped into the RGB-Mini LED race—but they’re already playing catch-up.
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TCL to Showcase Next-Gen Displays and AI-Powered Product Lineup at CES 2026
TCL has confirmed its participation at CES 2026 with a major showcase focused on advanced display technology and a wide range of AI-powered products. The company will occupy Booth #18604 at the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Central Hall from January 6 to 9.
TCL plans to highlight its latest breakthroughs in display innovation, including its new SQD-Mini LED technology. The technology delivers five key improvements: wide color gamut for all scenarios, no color crosstalk, higher peak brightness, more local dimming zones, and a slimmer profile. TCL will display these panels across TVs, monitors, mobile devices, and wearables.
The company will also debut new NXTPAPER smartphones and enote tablets with eye-care features. Visitors can expect a hands-on look at TCL’s latest AR glasses, designed to enhance personal entertainment and productivity.
TCL’s presence at CES will extend beyond displays. The company will introduce a complete lineup of AI-powered smart home devices, including air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, and smart locks. TCL will also present AI-powered TVs, projectors, and AR glasses that support personalized content and smarter interaction.
The company aims to show how its AI systems can support daily life through a connected ecosystem. Its Human-Vehicle-Home strategy will be on display through mobile devices, tablets, and smart integration solutions that combine intelligent productivity with mobility and home automation.
TCL’s booth will act as a live demonstration of how its display and AI technologies work together to shape future living and viewing experiences. The company has stated that more product details will be revealed during the event.
In related news, Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone could drive significant growth for TCL CSOT, while TCL has also launched its PlayCube, A1S, and C1 portable projectors in the UK market.
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Apple’s Foldable iPhone Could Fuel Big Gains for TCL CSOT
Apple is expected to enter the foldable smartphone market in 2026, and its arrival could significantly impact the display supply chain. According to a new report from Counterpoint Research, global shipments of foldable smartphone panels are forecast to grow 46% year-on-year, with Apple’s panel procurement plans playing a major role in driving that increase.
While Samsung Display is projected to lead with a 57% market share, TCL CSOT is quietly emerging as one of the fastest-growing players in the foldable panel segment. Counterpoint estimates that TCL CSOT will see a 47% year-on-year growth in foldable panel shipments in 2026, placing it ahead of several competitors in terms of momentum.
The report highlights a shift in consumer preferences toward book-style foldable devices with large, inward-folding displays. These designs are gaining traction in both global and Chinese markets, where buyers are prioritizing screen size and productivity features over compact form factors. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 has already outsold the Flip model in early sales during the second half of 2025, underlining the trend.
Panel makers are expected to post uneven results next year. BOE may experience an 8% decline, while Visionox is projected to grow 8%. Tianma is forecast to achieve the highest year-on-year surge at 580%, though from a smaller base. TCL CSOT’s 47% growth positions it as a key player poised to benefit from rising demand and higher average selling prices.
Counterpoint also expects foldable smartphone shipments to grow 14% in 2025 and 38% in 2026. As Apple prepares to enter the market and push foldables into the mainstream, TCL CSOT appears well-placed to expand its presence in the global foldable display market.
In related news, TCL CSOT is supplying the display panel for AOC AGON’s 1000Hz gaming monitor, the AGP277QK, while TCL has also launched the PlayCube, A1S, and C1 portable projectors in the UK.
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TCL launches PlayCube, A1S, and C1 portable projectors in the UK
TCL has launched its full range of portable projectors in the UK. The lineup includes the uniquely designed PlayCube, the versatile A1S, and the compact C1. All three models are also available in the U.S.
The PlayCube, priced at £799.99 in the UK and $749.99 in the U.S., features a cube-shaped design inspired by the Rubik’s Cube. It weighs under 1.4kg and runs wirelessly for up to three hours thanks to a built-in battery. It uses Google TV with optimized Netflix support, and its rotatable lens design allows flexible image placement on walls, ceilings, or tents.
The projector outputs 750 ISO Lumens and supports 4K input, although its native resolution is 1080p. It covers 124% of the Rec.709 color gamut and features instant autofocus, auto keystone correction, and Dolby Digital Plus audio.
The A1S, priced at £369.99 in the UK and $330 in the U.S., features a tower design with a built-in “Versagrip” handle that acts as a stand. It also uses Google TV with Netflix, supports 4K input on a 1080p panel, and outputs 600 ISO Lumens. A 16W speaker system with passive radiators and reactive lighting adds entertainment value, especially during outdoor or party use.
The C1 is the most affordable option at £249.99 in the UK and U.S. It retains full HD resolution, Google TV, Netflix support, and automatic image adjustments. It delivers 230 ISO Lumens and can project up to 120 inches. The rotating gimbal handle helps with angle adjustment, and the built-in 8W speaker removes the need for external audio gear.
In related news, we recently covered the best TCL TVs under $500 you can buy in 2025, so do check that out as well.
(Via)