Samsung continues the "matrix lottery" policy

Samsung is once again creating confusion in its OLED TV segment. According to information available online, the S95F series, considered Samsung's flagship OLED model for 2025, will be available with both QD-OLED and WOLED panels. This means that potential buyers will need to pay particular attention to the model designations to ensure what panel technology they will actually receive.

Matrix lottery is ongoing – what do the letters in the model name mean?

Similar to the S90D model, Samsung uses different designations for TVs with QD-OLED and WOLED panels depending on the market. For the S95F model:

• In the USA:

  • "FAE" means WOLED panel

  • "FAF" means QD-OLED panel

• In Europe:

  • "FAE" means WOLED

  • "FAT" means QD-OLED

It turns out that without carefully checking the model code, buying a television can be a lottery, especially for those looking for specific technology.

Models S95F and their matrices

S95F – the first 83-inch model with a matte display

One of the most interesting aspects of the new series is the appearance of the 83S95F model, marking the first-ever 83-inch version of Samsung's flagship OLED with a matte display. Previously, the largest available size was 77 inches. Importantly, this version does not use Samsung's QD-OLED display but rather a WOLED panel supplied by LG Display. The question is whether it will be a new matrix with the Primary RGB Tandem configuration like in the LG G5, or older generations of WOLED panels?

The first 42-inch OLEDs from Samsung

Another significant surprise is Samsung's introduction of the first-ever 42-inch OLED models. In the case of the S90F series, the 42S90F model and its 48-inch counterpart will solely use WOLED panels. Thus, Samsung is entering the segment of the smallest OLED TVs, which could pose direct competition to popular LG models from the C series in these sizes.

S90F Models and their Panels

Interestingly, according to leaks from DisplaySpecification, the model 65S90F is set to be equipped with a WOLED panel, which suggests that none of the sizes from the S90F series will receive a panel made by Samsung Display in the Islands.

What's new in Samsung OLED TVs for 2025?

Samsung is introducing several technological innovations, regardless of the type of panel:

• VRR up to 165Hz and Motion Xcelerator 165

• AI 4K Upscaling Pro, Auto HDR Remastering Pro

• Smart Calibration and HDR Brightness Optimization, though based on our previous experiences, these are more marketing add-ons than genuinely useful features.

• A new remote with a dedicated AI button and an improved Tizen OS

• And, of course, new advanced AI features.

Both QD-OLED and WOLED models are advertised as capable of reaching 4000 nits peak brightness; however, in practice, this will require independent testing. This would mean that the 83S95F would be using an RGB Tandem panel.

Is this a good decision by Samsung?

For consumers, the Samsung S95F may present a challenge when purchasing. The introduction of mixed panels in the same series can lead to misunderstandings, especially when two televisions with the same name differ not only in picture quality but potentially in durability and display characteristics as well. For those who consciously choose QD-OLED or WOLED technology, Samsung is forcing additional caution when buying. We hope to check all possible variants of Samsung's OLEDs for you this year.