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Article ID : 00173776 / Last Modified : 10/05/2022Print

What is image retention on OLED TVs and how to avoid it

What is image retention?

    IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

    What is image retention?

    Image retention is a temporary or permanent residual image on a screen. Due to the characteristics of the materials used to achieve high-definition imaging, an OLED TV screen may experience image retention if an image is continuously displayed for long and extensive periods. Alternatively, image retention might occur if the same image is displayed repeatedly over and over again. To protect the screen, avoid using images that are susceptible to image retention as much as possible and adhere to the precautions listed in the article below. 

    In short, if you regularly turn off your OLED TV and don't always display the same static image, chances are exceedingly slim that you will encounter image retention. 

    What images may aid image retention? 

    • Content with black bars either on the top and bottom or the left and right sides of the screen, such as a letterboxed or 4:3 screen
    • Static images such as photos
    • Video games that might have static content in some part of the screen
    • On-screen menus, program guides, and channel logos
    • Static content from apps
    • On-screen tickers, such as those used for news and headlines

    What TV functions reduce image retention automatically

    To protect the TV screen from image retention, we have equipped it with functions that automatically adjust the screen conditions. These functions automatically run according to your TV's state, or you can run them manually.

    FunctionsHow does it prevent image retention?
    Panel refreshAdjusts the uniformity of the TV screen after using it for long periods (it is advised not to perform this more than once per year).
    Panel calibrationOptimises the screen or enhances the image in dark scenes. Your TV performs panel calibration automatically a few hours after the power is turned off with the remote control.
    Pixel shiftShifts the image on the TV screen after a certain time and runs automatically with the function enabled.
    Screen saverActivates when your TV is idle for a certain period to protect the panel from image retention. Settings for how long the TV is inactive before the screen saver is activated are available.
    Function to adjust the screen brightnessThis function gradually reduces the screen brightness to protect the screen. To control screen brightness, check the Ambient light sensor, Light sensor, Light and Color sensor settings, and Peak Luminance settings.

    How to prevent image retention

    Check the following to reduce the risk of screen image retention:

    Reduce image retention or non-uniformity on your OLED TV screen: Turn it off 

    1. After using your TV, press the POWER button on your TV or the remote control to turn it off. We recommend that you always turn off your TV after use.
      • Leave the TV off for about six hours or more (e.g. overnight).
    2. Place the TV away from direct sunlight. Sunlight exposure can change the characteristics of your TV screen and may appear as non-uniformity.

    Fill the screen by changing Wide mode to eliminate the black bars

    Select Wide mode other than Normal.

      1. Open the  Settings screen.
      2. Select Display & Sound or Display.
      3. Select Screen.
      4. Select Wide mode.
      5. Select Wide zoom, Full or Zoom.

    How to access Settings

    Turn off the OSD (On Screen Display) and avoid static images

    • Press the DISPLAY button on the supplied remote control to turn off the OSD.
    • Avoid displaying static images with bright colours (including white), clocks, or logos on any portion of the screen.

    Set the picture settings based on the ambient conditions

    1. Open the  Settings screen.
    2. Select Display & Sound or Display.
    3. Select Picture.
    4. Select Picture mode.
    5. Select Standard. Standard is recommended for home use and when viewing content that often displays the station logos, etc.

    How to access Settings