Samsung misses an opportunity by not investing in energy harvesting for shelf-edge electronic labels.
It seems that digital signage doesn't have to be boring.
Solum, a digital signage company that separated from Samsung ten years ago, showcased an impressive range of 'bar' screens at its booth during the ISE 2025 event. These innovative screens are specifically designed for nightlife venues and luxury stores, aiming to provide a modern and cutting-edge approach to the aesthetics of such places.
Among the exhibits, a variety of unconventional formats stood out, challenging the notion that digital signage must be limited to 16:9 screens. One notable example is a screen that is 35 inches wide and only six inches high, demonstrating its ability to present images and text in high resolution clearly and vibrantly.
The use of these screens is geared towards bars and clubs, as well as high-end retail outlets. To illustrate their utility, Solum created a model of a wine shop, where bottles in glass displays were complemented by adjacent screens that reflected the aesthetics of the showcased wine. Additionally, an E Ink display, the Spectra 6 model, was presented, displaying a wine advertisement that was indistinguishable from a traditional print.
Another innovation presented was the electronic shelf labels (ESLs) by E-Ink, which offer a more eco-friendly alternative to paper. These labels allow brick-and-mortar stores to perform instant bulk updates, giving them the ability to compete in real time with online stores through dynamic price changes.
Energy efficiency is a highlighted aspect of these electronic labels, as a single rechargeable battery can power a whole shelf of ESLs for up to ten years if updated once a day. Solum is considering additional technologies to enhance efficiency for more frequent updates, likely exploring wireless power solutions like Wi-Charge.
The event also featured a large customer service screen that integrates an artificial intelligence assistant capable of answering preset questions. Additionally, displays with Network Device Interface (NDI) compatibility were showcased, allowing for high-resolution video streaming with extremely low latency. A suggested use case was in sports stadiums, where the ongoing match could be displayed without crowd noise or commentary, benefiting viewers watching on screens within hospitality areas. NDI technology is capable of managing video up to 8K, and Solum has compatible screens available in sizes of 43, 50, 55, and 65 inches.
