Introduction
Samsung has long been a leader in display innovation—and 2024 marks a defining moment. The tech giant has fully transitioned to OLED screens for nearly all smartphone models above the entry-level tier. LCDs, once the standard in mid-range devices, are now disappearing fast. From the Galaxy S24 Ultra to the budget-friendly Galaxy A15, Samsung’s display evolution showcases its vision for brighter, thinner, and more energy-efficient phones.
So, what drove this complete OLED takeover? Let’s dive deep into how Samsung has reshaped its smartphone lineup with stunning visual technology.
Understanding Display Technology
What Is LCD and Why It’s Fading Away
LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display, was once the king of smartphone screens. It offered decent brightness and affordability. However, LCD panels rely on backlighting, which limits contrast and black depth. As a result, colors can appear washed out, especially when compared to OLED.
In short, LCD is functional but no longer exciting. Consumers now expect deeper blacks, richer colors, and smoother visuals—all of which OLED delivers effortlessly.
What Makes OLED Superior
OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) panels work differently. Each pixel emits its own light, eliminating the need for a backlight. The result?
- Perfect blacks
- Infinite contrast ratio
- Better power efficiency
- Thinner and lighter panels
Samsung’s OLED screens are globally recognized for their vivid color reproduction and longevity, making them ideal for both flagship and mid-range devices.
Samsung’s OLED Variants – Super AMOLED vs. Dynamic AMOLED 2X
Samsung doesn’t just make OLED panels—it perfects them.
- Super AMOLED: Used in mid-range and entry-level phones like the A55 or M55. It’s bright, colorful, and power-efficient.
- Dynamic AMOLED 2X: Found in flagship devices like the S24 Ultra and Z Fold6. It offers higher refresh rates, HDR support, and adaptive brightness up to 2600 nits.
Samsung’s 2024 Display Strategy
The Shift from LCD to OLED Across Lineups
In 2024, Samsung executed its long-term plan: replace all LCD panels above entry-level models with OLED. The brand no longer sees LCD as viable for any mid-tier or premium phone. Even affordable models like the Galaxy A15 now feature OLED displays—a move that signals the democratization of premium tech.
How Samsung’s Panel Technology Defines Its Premium Image
Samsung isn’t just a smartphone maker—it’s also the world’s largest OLED panel supplier. This gives it a competitive edge in cost control and quality assurance. The company’s success with OLED has influenced the entire smartphone industry, pushing competitors to follow suit.
2024 Flagship Models – The Galaxy S24 Series
Galaxy S24 Ultra – The Ultimate Display Benchmark
The Galaxy S24 Ultra features Samsung’s best-ever display: a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 120Hz refresh rate and QHD+ resolution. What makes it stand out is the anti-reflective coating and flat glass design, improving usability and visibility under sunlight.
It’s also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Armor, which offers exceptional durability. Whether gaming or streaming, this display sets the gold standard for 2024.
Galaxy S24+ and S24 – Balancing Performance and Perfection
Both the S24+ and S24 continue the OLED tradition, using Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels. The S24+ offers QHD+ resolution, while the S24 remains at FHD+, maintaining clarity and brightness while optimizing battery life.
Snapdragon and Exynos Variants
Samsung offers two chipset versions globally:
- Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy (in the US, Canada, China)
- Exynos 2400 (in Europe, India, and other markets)
Regardless of the chip, the display quality remains consistently top-tier.
Flat Display Design and Anti-Reflective Coating
For the first time, even the Ultra model adopts a flat display, ending years of curved edges. Combined with a new anti-glare finish, this design is both practical and premium.
The Foldable Flagship Series – Galaxy Z Fold6 & Z Flip6
The Art of Flexibility with Dynamic AMOLED 2X
Samsung’s foldables—Z Fold6 and Z Flip6—use Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels for both main and cover screens. The flexible nature of these displays highlights OLED’s versatility, something LCD could never achieve.
Display Innovations in Foldable Devices
The foldables feature thinner creases, better brightness, and optimized energy consumption. Samsung continues to lead the foldable segment, leveraging OLED’s adaptability to create futuristic designs.
Mid-Range Excellence – Galaxy A55 and A35
Super AMOLED for the Mass Market
The A55 and A35 use Super AMOLED displays—brighter, smoother, and far superior to the LCDs of their predecessors. This brings flagship-level color accuracy and deep blacks to affordable price points.
Brightness, Color, and Value in Balance
These devices strike a sweet spot between premium aesthetics and practical affordability, reinforcing Samsung’s mid-range dominance.
Affordable Yet Advanced – Galaxy A15 & M15 Series
Entry-Level OLED Revolution
Even the Galaxy A15—a budget model—has upgraded to Super AMOLED, replacing LCD entirely. This shift means even first-time smartphone buyers get a high-end viewing experience.
Why This Shift Matters for Consumers
OLED isn’t just about visuals; it’s about comfort and efficiency. The screens reduce eye strain and improve battery life. Samsung is setting a new expectation: OLED is now the standard, not the luxury.
Special Regional Models – Galaxy M55 and F55
AMOLED Expansion in Emerging Markets
Samsung extends OLED adoption to India, Latin America, and other developing regions with the M55 and F55 series. These models use Super AMOLED panels that deliver high contrast and smooth performance.
Balancing Battery Life and Display Performance
Thanks to AMOLED’s power efficiency, these models achieve long battery life without sacrificing visual appeal—a critical factor in value-driven markets.
Future Predictions for Late 2024 Models
Possible LCD Holdouts in Ultra-Low-End Devices
Samsung may retain LCD panels for ultra-budget phones like Galaxy A05s, purely for cost management. However, even this category may shift to OLED by 2025.
Cost vs. Experience in Entry-Level Markets
The main trade-off remains between price and visual quality. But as OLED manufacturing becomes cheaper, the days of LCD dominance are officially numbered.
Comparative Overview in Table Form
| Series Category | 2024 Model Examples | Display Type | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flagship | Galaxy S24 Ultra, S24+, S24 | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Best-in-class OLED with high brightness and vivid color. |
| Foldable Flagship | Z Fold6, Z Flip6 | Dynamic AMOLED 2X / Super AMOLED | Flexible and ultra-bright main displays. |
| Mid-Range | A55 5G, A35 5G, M55 5G | Super AMOLED | Excellent balance of performance and visuals. |
| Entry-Level | A15 5G, M15 5G | Super AMOLED | OLED becomes mainstream. |
| Ultra-Low-End | (e.g., A05s, pending release) | Possible LCD | LCD remains only for extreme budget tiers. |
The Bigger Picture – Why OLED Is the Future
Environmental and Energy Efficiency
OLED screens consume less power because inactive pixels simply turn off. That’s great for both battery life and energy sustainability.
Consumer Expectations and Brand Perception
By using OLED even in entry-level devices, Samsung reinforces its premium image. Customers now expect rich visuals from every Galaxy phone, regardless of price.
Conclusion – The End of LCD for Samsung
In 2024, Samsung officially entered its “All-OLED” era. From flagships to entry-level models, OLED now defines the Galaxy experience. LCD panels are fading fast, found only in the cheapest segments.
Samsung’s transition marks not just a technical upgrade—but a new standard for the entire smartphone industry.
FAQs
1. Why did Samsung stop using LCD screens in most phones?
OLED provides better contrast, energy efficiency, and design flexibility.
2. Do all Samsung phones now use OLED?
Almost all—only a few ultra-low-end models might still use LCD.
3. What’s the difference between Super AMOLED and Dynamic AMOLED 2X?
Dynamic AMOLED 2X offers higher brightness, HDR support, and smoother refresh rates.
4. Are OLED screens more fragile?
Not necessarily. With Gorilla Glass Armor and advanced coatings, Samsung’s OLEDs are more durable than ever.
5. Will future Samsung phones use only OLED?
Yes. By 2025, Samsung is expected to fully phase out LCD across all Galaxy models.