LAS VEGAS ― Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics this week reinforced their prowess as the world’s top two television makers in unveiling their so-called “bendable TVs” ― televisions with displays that are actually flexible, not just curved.

Both had ultrahigh definition, but there was a big gap in their display panel technology: Samsung was based on LED lighting, while LG went for OLED.

While both were lauded as next-generation display technologies, it seemed that once again Samsung had the upper hand: Samsung’s TV was found to bend more than LG’s, even though it is more difficult to bend LCD panels.

“Samsung has maintained the world’s No.1 position in the global TV market with the best innovative technology and a superior entertainment experience,” said Joe Stinziano, senior vice president of Samsung Electronics America, during an event marking the unveiling of Samsung’s flexible TV.

The firm vowed to reinforce collaboration with the world’s renowned UHD TV content providers, sports organizations and even some prominent figures in the world’s film market to nurture the UHD TVs and their content.

This was the rationale behind its recent deal with Michael Bay, the director of the global blockbuster series “Transformers.”

Six of Samsung’s 10 new TVs this year will feature a curved design, with sizes ranging from 55 inches to 110 inches.

While Samsung’s 85-inch flexible TVs were bigger than LG’s 77-inch displays, size may not matter much. In the end, it matters more just how smaller and flexible the displays can get.

Thanks to the OLED display, however, LG’s products were seen to boast better picture quality.

Meanwhile, more attention seemed to be on LG’s TVs than on its announcement of supporting a broader line of UHD smart TVs this year by implementing the WebOS Smart TV platform.

Netflix, the world’s leading Internet television network, has signed up as a content partner for LG.

“Netflix 4K content delivered on our amazing ultra HD screens through our new WebOS Smart TV platform will change the way consumers enjoy television,” said Ahn Seung-kwon, LG Electronics’ president and CTO.

By Kim Young-won (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)