CEDIA 2017

The notion of using flat-panel TVs to display art isn’t new, but Samsung finally took time to think the concept through and do it right. A highlight of the company’s CEDIA booth was its The Frame TVs, a series of 65- and 55-inch (a 43-inch version is forthcoming) HDR-compatible UHDTVs with a striking ability to mimic framed artworks.

The sets come packaged with a wall-hugging No-Gap mount and a 16-foot fiber optic cable that links the TV to the company’s One Connect interface box. Optional walnut, beige wood, or white bezels complete the frame effect.

While The Frame sets function as normal TVs, selecting an Art Mode switches them to a low-power state with limited light output. You can display your own digital snapshots, and add a custom matte to the edges of the image. You can also choose pictures from the free collection that comes with the TV, or download selections from Samsung’s Art Store at $19.99 a pop. Offerings from The Prado and other famous museums are available, and new options are regularly added. The sets also feature sensors that automatically turn the image on or off when detecting your presence in the room, and they can vary the brightness depending on room lighting conditions.

The Frame sets are available now and sell for $2799 (65-inch) and $1199 (55-inch).