This post is brought to you by TCL Malaysia.
TCL continues to strengthen its presence in the premium TV space with the C8K, a QD-Mini LED television that reflects the brand’s push toward higher performance, bolder designs, and proprietary technology.
Before diving into the product itself, it’s worth noting TCL’s broader position in the global tech landscape. The company reports global TV sales of 29 million units in 2024, and currently ranks first worldwide in Mini LED TV sales, Google TV sales, and Ultra Large Screen TV sales (85 inches and above). TCL also cites a market share of 12.5% in 2023, with 25.26 million TVs shipped, ranking it second globally. Additionally, it claims the top global ranking for 98-inch TV shipments.
Much of this growth, according to TCL, stems from two key pillars: its in-house display manufacturing via CSOT, which holds the second-largest global screen supply market share and sustained R&D investments of over RM40 billion across the past five years. As of October 2024, TCL Industries has submitted over 30,000 patent applications, supported by 24 R&D centres and 7 joint labs worldwide, covering fields from AI to display tech and smart home integration.
The TCL C8K Premium QD-Mini LED TV is a showcase of these efforts. One of its key highlights is a precise dimming system that supports up to 3,840 zones, which TCL says enables more controlled lighting across the panel. This is further enhanced by its All-domain Halo Control Technology, which TCL says enables more refined control over brightness and contrast by managing light across the full path, from generation to imaging.
The goal is to reduce halo effects and preserve detail in both dark and bright scenes. According to TCL, this system is made up of several proprietary hardware and optical components:
- Powerful Light-Emitting Chip – This custom chip uses a six-crystal LED architecture that is claimed to boost brightness by 27.5% and improve energy efficiency by over 30% compared to standard designs. The higher light output is intended to improve peak luminance and detail in HDR content.
- Super Condensed Micro Lens – Developed in-house, this double-layer arch lens structure is designed to concentrate light more precisely, improving backlight uniformity by over 60%. TCL also points out that it uses yellowing-resistant materials to enhance long-term optical stability.
- Micro-OD (Optical Distance) Tuning – This element reduces the gap between the backlight and the LCD panel, allowing for a slimmer TV profile while minimising light leakage and enhancing overall image clarity.
The panel itself is TCL’s CrystalGlow WHVA, developed in-house via CSOT. It supports a native contrast ratio of up to 7000:1, features a 0.5% low reflection coating to help reduce screen glare, and includes a 40% ultra-wide colour viewing angle, which TCL claims ensures more consistent colours from various seating positions.
In terms of design, the C8K adopts a Virtually ZeroBorder approach, with bezels measuring just 3mm to 4mm. TCL states that the near-frameless look is supported by 22 patented innovations focused on manufacturing efficiency and aesthetic integration. The frame is also constructed using high-end materials and precision manufacturing techniques, designed to elevate both the tactile and visual quality of the unit.
Audio performance also sees an upgrade, with TCL announcing a collaboration with Bang and Olufsen to deliver a premium sound experience for both the C8K and its little sibling, the C7K. This partnership brings a tuned surround audio profile meant to complement the C8K’s visual strengths.
While the C8K was the flagship draw, TCL also introduced the C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV, now available in an ultra-large 115-inch variant, one of the largest screens ever offered in Malaysia. TCL says the C7K combines its Halo Control System, CSOT HVA panel, and a suite of proprietary technologies like Bidirectional 23-bit backlight and Dynamic Lighting Bionic Algorithm, designed to enhance contrast, colour accuracy, and cinematic immersion on a truly grand scale.
TCL also gave a brief look at new smart appliances, including the FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioner with AI energy-saving features and voice control, and the Free-Built-In Refrigerator, designed for seamless kitchen integration with flexible cooling zones and antibacterial tech.
Outside the product itself, TCL recently announced its new role as an official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual and Home Appliances category. As part of this partnership, the company will provide displays and home appliances for Olympic venues and villages and participate in initiatives such as the Olympic AI Agenda and Athlete Moments, which aim to enhance experiences for both athletes and fans through smart, connected technologies.
With the C8K, TCL is aiming to bring together premium design, proprietary panel technology, and global brand ambition into a single display, offering a glimpse of how the brand sees the future of home entertainment. Learn more at www.tcl.com/my.
