Samsung M9: Gaming Monitor or Smart TV? Unveiling the Hybrid Revolution!

Samsung has recently introduced its new all-in-one monitor, the Smart Monitor M9. This device blends a 4K OLED 165Hz panel designed for gaming with built-in Smart TV apps. It’s a versatile offering, though the price tag is steep at $1599.

On One Hand, a High-End Gaming Monitor…

On paper, the monitor aspect of the M9 is everything a PC gamer could wish for. It features a 32-inch QD-OLED panel with 4K resolution, a refresh rate of 165Hz, and an ultra-fast response time of 0.03 ms.

It also supports G-SYNC, ensuring a smooth gaming experience free from screen tearing. Samsung has incorporated anti-glare technology and a system to reduce the risk of OLED burn-in as well. These specifications make it a robust choice.

…On the Other, a Connected Smart TV

This is where the product takes on its hybrid nature. The Smart Monitor M9 is more than just a screen; it also includes Samsung’s Tizen OS ecosystem. It comes equipped with a remote control and can run streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+ independently, without needing a PC to be switched on.

It even features a 4K webcam for video calls and direct access to Microsoft 365 for document editing.

AI Features and a “Premium” Price Tag

To justify its premium positioning, Samsung has sprinkled in some artificial intelligence. The monitor includes features such as “4K AI Upscaling Pro” to enhance the quality of lower definition sources, and “Active Voice Amplifier Pro,” which adjusts dialogue volume based on ambient noise.

However, all these features come at a high cost. The Smart Monitor M9 is priced at $1599. Currently, there’s no price listed in euros, but one can expect it to be similarly high.

What’s Our Take?

The initial concept is compelling: creating a single display solution for those short on space. However, the product seems to be caught in between two purposes. Hardcore PC gamers, who are the target audience for such an expensive 165Hz panel, likely already have powerful computers that can handle all that the “Smart TV” part offers. Meanwhile, more typical users don’t need a monitor with such high-end gaming specs.

It feels like a solution that’s still searching for its place in the market. This is especially true for Mac users, who have no reason to use Tizen OS when macOS already handles everything seamlessly. It’s a beautiful piece of technology, but its positioning and price seem somewhat out of step with the market. What do you think of this all-in-one screen concept?

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