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Article ID : 00173776 / Last Modified : 08/04/2021

How to avoid image retention on OLED TVs

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

    Organic EL displays (OLED) may experience image retention if an image is continuously displayed for a long period of time or the same image is repeatedly displayed. This is due to the characteristics of the materials used to achieve high-definition imaging. To protect your TV screen, avoid using images that may cause image retention.

    Causes

    • Content with black bars either on the top and bottom or the left and right sides of the screen, such as a letterbox 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

    Functions that 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 condition, or you can run them manually.

    FunctionsHow does it prevent image retention?
    Panel refreshIt automatically runs to adjust the uniformity of the TV screen after using it for a long period of time.
    Panel calibrationIt optimizes the screen or enhances the image in dark scenes.
    Pixel shiftIt shifts the image of the TV screen after a certain amount of time. It runs automatically when you set this function to On.
    Screen saverIt activates when operations aren't performed for an extended period of time. Check this article on Screen saver for more details.
    Function to adjust the screen brightnessThis function gradually reduces the screen brightness to protect the screen. Check this article on sudden brightness changes for more details.


    How to prevent image retention

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

    • Follow the steps on how to reduce image retention or non-uniformity on the screen.
    • Make sure there are no black bars or aspect ratio bars on the screen. 
      1. On the supplied remote control, press the HOME button.
      2. Select Settings.
      3. Select Display & Sound or Display.
      4. Select Screen.
      5. Select Wide mode.
      6. Select Wide zoom, Full or Zoom.
    • Turn off the On-Screen Display (OSD) and menus from the connected device.
      • You can press the DISPLAY button on the supplied remote control to turn off the OSD or menu. Check your device manual for model-specific information.
    • 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.

      NOTE: Standard is recommended for home use and when watching programs that display station logos. 

      1. Press the HOME button.
      2. Select  Settings.
      3. Select Display & Sound or Display.
      4. Select Picture.
      5. Select Picture mode.
      6. Select Standard.