Samsung is entering the digital signage market with a novel offering: a 13-inch color E-Paper display constructed with a bio-based resin derived from phytoplankton. This marks the first commercial display of its kind utilizing this sustainable material, positioning the South Korean technology giant to capitalize on growing demand for energy-efficient and environmentally conscious advertising and information solutions.
The display, equivalent in size to an A4 sheet of paper, boasts a resolution of 1600×1200 and a 4:3 aspect ratio. Samsung emphasizes the display’s ability to replicate the visual qualities of paper, delivering natural colors and maintaining text clarity even in brightly lit environments. The technology is aimed at replacing traditional paper-based signage in retail settings, including shelf labels, point-of-sale displays, and informational posters.
“We are seeing increasing demand from businesses for innovative communication methods that are both visually appealing and sustainable,” said Eglė Tamelytė, Head of Communications at Samsung Lithuania, in a company statement. “Color E-Paper technology represents a shift in how digital displays are integrated into daily operations. By utilizing innovative solutions, such as bio-based resin derived from phytoplankton, we demonstrate our commitment to improving not only the displays themselves but also the materials used in their production. These solutions are created as an alternative to paper – they are characterized by extremely low energy consumption and a thin, lightweight design.”
Sustainability at the Core
A key differentiator for Samsung’s new display is its environmental profile. Independent certification by UL (“Underwriters Laboratories Inc.”) confirms that the display’s casing comprises 45% recycled plastic and 10% bio-resin sourced from phytoplankton. According to Samsung, this composition reduces carbon dioxide emissions by more than 40% compared to displays utilizing conventional, petroleum-based plastics. This focus on sustainability extends to the packaging, which is made entirely of paper, including the box and protective elements.
The move comes as businesses increasingly prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. The demand for sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies is growing across industries, and Samsung’s E-Paper display appears designed to address this trend. The company is also planning to expand its Color E-Paper line, with a 20-inch model slated for debut at the ISE 2026 technology trade show in Barcelona, signaling a broader commitment to the technology.
Low Power Consumption and Convenient Content Management
Beyond its sustainable materials, the display’s low energy consumption is a significant advantage. Static images require no power to maintain, and even when updating content, the energy demand remains substantially lower than traditional digital displays. This makes the technology particularly attractive for sectors like retail, services, and offices, where frequent information updates and energy costs are major considerations.
The display features an integrated rechargeable battery and a USB-C connection, allowing for deployment without a constant power source. Its slim profile – just 17.9mm thick and weighing 0.9kg – facilitates flexible installation in various environments. Samsung provides a dedicated mobile app, compatible with both Android and iOS, and a cloud-based platform called Samsung VXT for remote content management, updates, and device monitoring. This simplifies the process of updating information, even for users without specialized IT expertise.
“For businesses, it is important that technology is not only advanced but also easy to use,” Tamelytė stated. “In this case, content can be updated remotely and with just a few clicks, even without specific information technology knowledge.”
Implications for the Digital Signage Market
Samsung’s entry into the color E-Paper display market could present a challenge to established players in the digital signage industry. While traditional LCD and LED displays dominate the market, E-Paper technology offers a compelling alternative for specific applications where low power consumption, readability, and sustainability are paramount. The technology could also potentially compete with emerging color e-reader technologies, such as Amazon’s Kindle Colorsoft, as noted by industry observers.
The relatively low energy requirements of E-Paper displays could also reduce operating costs for businesses, particularly those with large-scale signage deployments. The ability to remotely manage content through Samsung’s VXT platform further enhances efficiency and reduces the need for on-site maintenance. The use of bio-based materials aligns with growing consumer and corporate preferences for environmentally responsible products, potentially providing a competitive edge for businesses adopting the technology.
Samsung’s commitment to expanding its Color E-Paper portfolio suggests a long-term vision for the technology. The introduction of a 20-inch model at ISE 2026 indicates the company is actively developing solutions to meet the diverse needs of various business sectors and contribute to more sustainable visual communication practices globally.
