Some Samsung TVs face total ban as strict new rules come into force

Samsung might be the world’s most popular TV brand but fans of the Korean firm could soon be blocked from buying some of its best and brightest products. Strict new rules are being considered by the EU which will block certain televisions from stores if they can’t abide by updated energy requirements.

Most 4K and standard HD models won’t be affected by the change to the efficiency ratings but it could have a massive impact on Samsung’s upcoming 8K screen. That’s because these modern goggleboxes look almost certain not to get close to what lawmakers are proposing when it comes to power consumption.

If you weren’t already aware, 8K TVs offer a much-improved experience over High Definition and 4K technology with a resolution that’s more packed with pixels. Thanks to that clarity, 8K is often used for much bigger screen sizes with the majority coming in sizes of 74-inches or larger.

Along with being brighter, that bigger screen area is just one of the reasons why they consume more power.

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Unless anything changes in the coming months, the new rules look set to come into force from March 2023 and it’s causing manufacturers a major headache.

The 8K Association, which Samsung is a member of, has now made its feeling clear about the upcoming change.

In a post on its website, the alliance said: “Unless something changes, March 2023 will spell trouble for the emerging 8K industry with the 8K EU Regulatory Ruling. That’s when new EU power consumption regulations are set to go into effect.

“The power consumption limits on 8K TVs (and microLED-based displays) are set so low that essentially none of these devices will pass. It not only means a failing grade but a requirement that these devices cannot be sold in the EU. That will have a very chilling effect on all players working to develop the 8K ecosystem, including consumers whose access to devices and innovation will now be restricted.”

While the 8K Association says it supports efforts to reduce power consumption for the 8K ecosystem, the group is asking for a commonsense approach to developing power consumption targets based on realistic assessments of technical advancements in this area.

Of course, Samsung is not the only firm that could be affected by the changes with numerous manufacturers making 8K TVs including LG, Sony and Hisense.

It’s unclear if the changes will have an impact on UK consumers but next year could be a big year for anyone thinking of switching to an 8K screen.