The LG OLED Signature T, unveiled at CES 2024, is a 77-inch transparent TV that features a unique gimmick. The transparent display is achieved with the help of a contrast film behind the OLED panel. With the press of a button on the remote, the contrast film can be raised, making the TV look like a regular OLED, or lowered to reveal what’s behind the screen.

The TV runs on a custom version of webOS optimized for the transparent screen, providing a less cluttered and busy interface compared to LG’s normal TVs. It also has custom widgets that occupy only the lower section of the screen, reminiscent of LG’s rollable TV. The transparency mode of the TV creates depth effects, providing a unique viewing experience.

However, there are some downsides to this innovative technology. When the contrast filter is up, the OLED T does not match the brightness of LG’s best conventional OLEDs, such as the G series. It lacks Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology, leading to potential sacrifices in objective display quality. The TV is expected to be priced exorbitantly, likely surpassing the cost of LG’s other premium OLED models.

The fundamental question raised by the reviewer is, who is the OLED Signature T intended for? LG’s representatives suggest that some consumers are seeking something truly new and different, aligning with the driving purpose of LG’s Signature OLEDs. The transparent TV is a departure from the norm and aims to create buzz by offering a unique and novel viewing experience.

In terms of other specifications, the OLED T has down-firing speakers beneath the display and receives video and audio from LG’s Zero Connect Box, positioned up to 30 feet away with a line of sight to the TV. LG plans to ship the Signature OLED T within the calendar year, but the pricing and specific release date remain undisclosed. Given the uniqueness of the transparent OLED technology, it is expected to be priced significantly higher than conventional OLED models, potentially limiting its appeal to a niche market.