The technology behind ElevenLabs

ElevenLabs is at the forefront of AI voice synthesis, offering tools capable of generating hyper-realistic human voices from simple text prompts. Earlier this year, the company introduced a feature called Voice Design, which allows users to create a completely unique voice from scratch. This innovation enables the generation of personalized voices tailored for applications such as audiobooks, virtual assistants, and gaming characters. The system’s ability to mimic accents, emotions, and tones with incredible accuracy has made it extremely popular among creators and developers.

Yet, with great power comes great responsibility, or in this case, vulnerability. The same tools that enable creative possibilities can also be misused for nefarious purposes, as recent events have demonstrated.

Allegations of misuse in Russian campaigns

Reports indicate that the platform’s realistic voice capabilities were exploited in a Russian influence operation aimed at spreading misinformation. This campaign allegedly involved crafting fake audio messages to manipulate public opinion and disseminate propaganda. The use of AI-generated voices added a layer of authenticity to the fabricated messages, making it harder for audiences to discern fact from fiction.

While ElevenLabs has not officially confirmed these allegations, the reports underscore the potential for such technology to be weaponized. This incident has reignited discussions about the ethical implications of AI and the measures companies must take to safeguard their tools from misuse.

Balancing innovation and security

ElevenLabs’ vision has always been to democratise voice technology, making it accessible to anyone with a creative idea. Its tools are widely used by audiobook narrators, content creators, and educators to enhance their work. However, the alleged exploitation of these tools for misinformation highlights the fine line between accessibility and security.

In response to growing concerns, ElevenLabs has implemented measures to mitigate misuse. The company is strengthening its security protocols and collaborating with stakeholders to prevent future misuse. The company now requires users to verify their identities before accessing advanced features like Voice Design. They’ve also developed a detection tool capable of identifying audio generated by their AI.

These steps aim to balance user accessibility with safeguards against unethical applications. However, experts argue that industry-wide guidelines are essential to curb malicious applications of such technology​.

The broader implications

The controversy surrounding ElevenLabs is not an isolated incident but a reflection of broader challenges in the AI industry. AI-driven tools like ElevenLabs’ voice generator are increasingly being used for personal and professional tasks, such as creating narrations for YouTube videos or generating custom voiceovers for podcasts. These legitimate use cases highlight the transformative potential of the technology.

However, as tools become more sophisticated, their potential for misuse grows exponentially. Deepfake technology, for example, has already been used to create convincing but false audio and video recordings. The stakes are even higher when such tools fall into the hands of bad actors seeking to manipulate public opinion or spread misinformation.

In the absence of comprehensive legislation, companies like ElevenLabs are stepping up to self-regulate. Still, the road ahead is challenging. Governments and organizations must work together to create robust frameworks that protect users while fostering innovation. Initiatives like public awareness campaigns and AI literacy programs can also help mitigate risks by empowering individuals to critically evaluate digital content​

What can be done?

Industry experts suggest a multi-pronged approach to addressing these challenges. Firstly, companies like ElevenLabs must continue to innovate on security features. Identity verification, watermarking AI-generated content, and real-time detection algorithms are crucial in preventing misuse. Secondly, regulatory frameworks need to catch up with technological advancements. Governments and international bodies should collaborate to establish guidelines for the ethical use of AI.

Education also plays a pivotal role. Users and consumers must be made aware of the existence and potential misuse of AI-generated content. Encouraging media literacy can help individuals critically assess the authenticity of the information they encounter.

A cautionary tale for the AI industry

The alleged misuse of ElevenLabs’ technology serves as a cautionary tale for the AI industry at large. It highlights the unintended consequences of innovation and the importance of proactive measures to prevent abuse. While ElevenLabs’ tools offer incredible possibilities for creative expression and productivity, their potential for misuse cannot be ignored.

For ElevenLabs, this controversy is a stark reminder of the challenges that come with leading in an emerging field. The company’s response to this crisis will likely set a precedent for other AI firms navigating similar issues.

The road ahead

Despite the controversy, the future of AI voice technology remains bright. Tools like ElevenLabs’ voice generator have the potential to revolutionize several industries, from entertainment to education. However, realising this potential will require a delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring ethical use.

As the debate over AI ethics continues, it is clear that the responsibility for preventing misuse lies not just with developers but with society as a whole, which does sound like a lofty utopian dream. But yes, collaboration between tech companies, regulators, and the public will be essential in shaping the future of AI.

In the case of ElevenLabs, the coming months will be critical. How the company addresses these allegations and strengthens its safeguards will not only impact its reputation but also influence the trajectory of AI voice technology as a whole.

If you’re a basic user who isn’t concerned about cutting-edge HDMI 2.1 connectivity or ultra-precise colour accuracy, a BIG TV that doesn’t break the bank might be just what you need. Here are a few excellent options to consider!

What to expect from affordable 65-inch TVs?

65-inch TVs from tier-1 brands like Sony, Samsung, and LG offer LED LCDs. Options from competitive brands like Hisense, TCL, Blaupunkt, Acer, and others offer 65-inch QLED TVs for under ₹50,000. 

Most of the modern 65-inch TVs support HDR10 and many also support Dolby Vision HDR. Features like 120Hz refresh rate, VRR, and full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth would be hard to come by in this budget. Some TCL TVs do simulate a convincing 120Hz experience in game mode. 

Best affordable 65-inch TVs to buy in India

Now let’s proceed to our list of some of the best affordable 65-inch TVs that you can pick from. 

LG 65-inch UR7500PSC LED TV

The LG 65-inch 4K Ultra HD LED Smart TV offers a 60Hz refresh rate, HDR10, HLG, and a 4K upscaler powered by the α5 AI Processor 4K Gen6. As for audio, it offers 20W AI Sound featuring a virtual surround 5.1 up-mix and Bluetooth surround readiness. Connectivity includes 3 HDMI ports, 2 USB ports, eARC, Bluetooth 5.0, and Wi-Fi.

The TV is part of LG’s WebOS Renew program, promoting software updates and sustainability for the next 5 years. Smart features include Apple AirPlay 2, HomeKit, and advanced modes like Filmmaker Mode. Gaming features include Game Optimizer, ALLM, and HGIG. 

Buy Now

TCL 65-inch P71B Pro QLED TV

The TCL 65P71B Pro is a 65-inch 4K UHD QLED TV that is a great option for gamers on a budget. It can mimic a 120Hz refresh rate using TCL’s Dual Line Gate or DLG technology. There is also VRR and MEMC for smooth visuals. It offers 3 HDMI 2.1 ports, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity. The 35W Dolby Atmos ONKYO 2.1ch audio system with a subwoofer promises immersive sound.

Smart features include hands-free voice control, video chat, multi-view, and mobile mirroring. The TV supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic Color Enhancement. Slim design and eye care technology are other notable highlights to look forward to. 

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Samsung 65DUE70 Crystal 4K Vivid LED TV 

This Samsung LED LCD TV offers innovative features and a sleek design. Its 4K upscaling ensures your favourite content is presented with crisp, enhanced resolution, while the PurColor engine offers vibrant and nuanced colours that should appeal to generic consumers. For purists, Samsung also adds a Filmmaker mode with minimal post-processing. The TV supports HDR10 but not Dolby Vision. 

On the audio front, OTS Lite promises immersive, 3D virtual surround sound that dynamically follows the action. With SmartThings integration, it also transforms your home into a connected smart hub to control and monitor all IoT devices from one place.

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Acer 65-inch L Series 4K Ultra HD Smart Google TV

This is a feature-rich yet affordable 65-inch 4K UHD TV.  To enhance your content experience, the TV includes HDR10, Dolby Vision, and AI picture Optimization for clear and vibrant visuals. With MEMC for smooth motion, VRR, and ALLM, it should also be a decent option for gamers on a budget. 

The 36W high-fidelity speakers with Dolby Atmos and multiple sound modes create an immersive audio experience. It’s powered by Google TV with Android 14, and connectivity options include dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.1 and more. 

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Blaupunkt 65-inch QLED 4K Google TV Review

The Blaupunkt QLED QD7030 (review) offers a large 65-inch display at an affordable price. The TV performs well with SDR content, delivering good colour accuracy and wide viewing angles, though HDR performance falls short due to limited brightness and contrast. It features a sleek design, with side-facing ports and a solid build. Powered by 2GB RAM and 16GB storage, it performs decently, though it can be sluggish when multitasking. The Google TV interface is user-friendly, with voice commands and streaming support. Gaming performance is fine for casual play, but it lacks VRR and ALLM features. 

Buy Now

What are quantum dots? 

Quantum dots are tiny semiconductor particles that emit light when excited. What colour of light they emit depends on the size of the quantum dot. The important thing is that there is no loss of efficiency (in a way, brightness) when colour conversion takes place via quantum dots. In comparison, when colour filters are used a significant portion of light is absorbed resulting in loss of quantum efficiency.  

Also Read: 8 Different Types of OLED Display Technologies You Should Know About

Source: Samsung

Quantum dots can be classified into several types based on the material used and applications. But there are two popular types that you need to be familiar with. 

Electroluminescent Quantum Dots (EL-QDs) emit light when excited by an electric current. The more popular ones are Photoluminescent Quantum Dots (PL-QDs) which emit light when excited by UV light or blue light. 

QLED Displays

QLEDs are the most popular type of Quantum Dots-based displays in consumer devices today. 

Source: Nanosys

These displays use a quantum dot enhancement layer (either QDEF film or xQDEF diffuser plate) between the backlight and LCD panel.

The blue light from the backlight LEDs falls on Quantum Dots and some of it is converted to Green and Red. This results in a healthy mix of Red, Green and Blue components in the white light which is necessary to achieve a larger colour volume. 

Also Check: QNED vs QLED vs OLED TVs: What’s the difference? 

QLED TVs are easy to manufacture which is also why they are quite popular. LG’s QNED TVs and some of Sony’s Triluminous TVs are also based on the same technology. The MacBook Pro launched in 2024 also uses QDEF film in its display for the first time as was discovered by DSCC.

QD-OLED Displays

QD-OLED uses a Quantum Dots layer for colour conversion, unlike WHite OLEDs which use a colour filter. It’s easy to manufacture OLED displays with red, blue and green subpixels for smartphones but not for larger display sizes like TVs and monitors. 

Instead, manufacturers use a single colour emitter and then achieve colour conversion using a colour filter or quantum dots. When Quantum Dots are used, there is no loss in quantum efficiency and the display can achieve larger colour volume and higher contrast. This also enables QD-OLED TVs to be brighter than conventional white OLED TVs. 

QD-micro LED Displays

Source: Applied Materials

QD-micro LED displays are principally similar to the QD-OLED displays. The difference is that instead of organic emitters or OLEDs, these displays use inorganic emitters or micro LEDs which can last longer and can go much brighter. 

Again, it’s challenging to transfer three different colour micro LEDs to a substrate and thus manufacturers see using a single blue colour emitter followed by a Quantum Dot colour conversion layer in later stages as a more pragmatic approach. QD-micro LED displays are still a few years away from consumer devices. 

QDEL or QD-LED or Nano LED Display

QDEL is one of the most promising upcoming display technologies. It is also referred to as Nano LED or QD-LED. In fact, there were times when this technology was also referred to as QNED and QLED, which were later registered by LG and Samsung for different display technologies and are now quite popular. 

All the other applications that we have discussed above use Photoluminescent Quantum Dots that are excited using blue light. QD-EL or Nano LEDs on the other hand use Electroluminescent Quantum Dots which like regular LEDs can emit light when excited by current. In QDEL displays, Quantum dots do everything on their own. They don’t require an OLED or LED layer and thus offer high purity and brightness.

The technology was the prime focus at SID Display Week and TCL also showcased a 14-inch 2.8K QD-EL laptop screen prototype fabricated by ink-jet printing. This display offers a variable refresh rate (30 Hz – 120 Hz) and a wide viewing angle. 

This marks the first instance of an Indian organization suing OpenAI or any AI company for copyright infringement. However, similar lawsuits have become increasingly common internationally. The implications for how AI and copyright law interact are significant and could shape the future of AI development.

Judge Amit Bansal noted the complexity of the case and announced the appointment of an amicus curiae or a neutral expert or organization to provide the court with valuable insights or information to aid in its proceedings.

What are ANI’s complaints?

ANI has accused OpenAI of training its Large Language Models (LLM) based on ANI’s content. ANI argues that merely because its content is publicly available does not “give OpenAI the right to exploit it or use it or create copies or store it.” 

ANI also cited ChatGPT responses that are “verbatim or substantially similar” to articles published by ANI, which makes it a reproduction of copyrighted material and therefore copyright infringement. 

Thirdly, ChatGPT also misquoted ANI and made false attributions in several responses.ANI’s lawyer Siddhant Kumar cited several examples including a claim about an ANI interview with Rahul Gandhi that never occurred, along with other instances of misquoting. He stated that such actions could harm his rights, damage ANI’s reputation, and contribute to the spread of fake news and public disorder.  

The ANI is seeking Rs 2 crore in damages and a court order to permanently restrain OpenAI or its agents from storing, publishing, reproducing, or using ANI’s works in any way.

OpenAI’s Response to the Allegations

Update: Here is the official response from Open AI spokesperson In response to ANI’s lawsuit.

“We take great care in our products and design process to support news organizations. We are actively engaged in constructive partnerships and conversations with many news organizations around the world, including India, to explore opportunities, listen to feedback, and work collaboratively. Along with our news partners, we see immense potential for AI tools like ChatGPT, including through search, to deepen publishers’ relationships with readers and enhance the news experience.
More broadly, we build our AI models using publicly available data, in a manner protected by fair use and related principles, and supported by long-standing and widely accepted legal precedents.”

OpenAI’s representative, Amit Sibal, stated the company’s commitment to transparency in its operations. He highlighted that, over the past two years, OpenAI has faced 13 lawsuits in the United States, two in Canada, and one in Germany, none of which resulted in any form of injunction against the company. He argued this reflected the company’s compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Sibal argued that “copyright does not protect ideas or facts, only their expression,” asserting that any information collected and processed by OpenAI was never delivered to users in the same expression as its sources.

Regarding storing ANI’s data, OpenAI clarified that the model functions by learning from information aggregated from various sources. At the time of a query, there is no accessing data from any dedicated database. ANI’s information is not stored in any database.

Regarding potential inaccuracies, OpenAI acknowledged that ChatGPT could sometimes produce false responses if queries were manipulative. The company stated it had addressed every instance of false attribution flagged by ANI and pledged to correct any similar issues in the future.

OpenAI also raised concerns about territorial jurisdiction. Sibal highlighted that OpenAI has no offices in India, with its servers located abroad, and stated that the AI model’s training and data processing occur outside India. Since no reproduction of content took place in India, he argued there was no basis for legal action within the country.

The Road Ahead

Such lawsuits against OpenAI highlight critical questions about the boundaries of copyright law in the AI era. ANI’s case once again underscores concerns about the use of copyrighted materials without consent or compensation, a debate that is increasingly prevalent in creative industries, from journalism to literature and photography. ChatGPT and similar tools compete with publishers by offering information derived from copyrighted works, potentially reducing web traffic and subscription revenue for content platforms.

Several major publishers have taken a collaborative approach and have already signed a licensing deal with Open AI to monetize their content. These include the likes of Associated Press, Financial Times, and Axel Springer, the German publisher of Politico and Business Insider.

As the debate intensifies, these decisions will likely influence the future of content creation and AI innovation.

What are the different types of TV panels?

The type of panel used in a TV significantly affects its performance: 

• LED LCD Panels: The most common type, offering a good balance of brightness and energy efficiency. Some models feature Quantum Dot Enhancement Film (QLED) for better color reproduction. 
• OLED Panels: Known for their superior contrast and true blacks, making them ideal for movie enthusiasts. However, they are pricier and may suffer from burn-in issues. 
• Mini LED: A newer technology that offers enhanced brightness and contrast, often found in premium TVs. 

Choosing the right panel depends on your budget and viewing preferences. OLED offers the best overall picture quality, but high-quality LED and Mini LED options are also available in various price ranges. 

Also Read: QNED vs QLED vs OLED TVs: What’s the difference?

Key factors to look for when buying TVs

Build and Design 

The build quality and design of a TV can significantly impact your viewing experience and how well it integrates into your home. In 2024, TVs are sleeker, with minimal bezels, offering a more immersive viewing experience. Premium models often feature high-end materials, such as metal or brushed aluminium finishes, while budget models might use more plastic. However, regardless of price, most modern TVs are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, with a focus on blending into various room decors. 

When selecting a TV, consider the sturdiness of the stand, the weight (especially if you plan to wall-mount it), and the overall thickness. Thinner models tend to look more elegant but may also have limitations in terms of speaker quality and port accessibility. 

Features 

TVs today come with a range of features that cater to different viewing preferences. Here are some key aspects to consider: 

• Screen Size: Choose a screen size that fits your space. For medium-sized bedrooms, 43 inches is ideal, while 55 to 65 inches is recommended for living rooms. 
• Resolution: While 4K resolution remains the sweet spot for most consumers, offering a significant upgrade over Full HD, 8K TVs are emerging, though they are not yet essential due to the lack of content. 
• Refresh Rate: Standard TVs have a 60Hz refresh rate, but for smoother motion, especially in fast-paced action scenes or gaming, a 120Hz or higher refresh rate is preferable. 
• Connectivity: Ensure the TV has enough HDMI ports for your needs, preferably HDMI 2.1, which supports features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for gamers. USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity are also crucial. 
• Smart TV Capabilities: Modern TVs are equipped with smart features that allow you to stream content directly from platforms like Netflix and YouTube. Ensure the TV supports the apps you use frequently. 

OS and UI (For Smart TVs) 

The operating system and user interface play a crucial role in the overall smart TV experience. In 2024, most TVs come with built-in Wi-Fi and a smart interface, allowing users to stream content, use apps, and even control smart home devices. 

• Google TV: Found in many TVs across various price segments, offering access to a wide range of apps and a user-friendly interface. 
• LG’s webOS and Samsung’s Tizen OS: Known for their smooth performance and minimalistic design, making navigation easy and intuitive. 
• Amazon’s Fire OS: Popular for its integration with Alexa and a wide array of apps. 

Beware of no-name or proprietary OSs that might clutter your experience with unnecessary apps. Always check for well-tuned picture modes like Filmmaker or Cinema Mode, which provide a more accurate display. 

Performance 

Performance is where the real value of a TV shines through, beyond the specs listed on paper. It includes how well the TV handles motion, displays colors, and manages HDR content: 

• Picture Quality: In affordable TVs, expect decent performance with around 300 nits of peak brightness, though HDR might not be as impactful. Midrange and premium TVs offer better brightness, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. 
• HDR Support: Look for TVs that support HDR10/10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG for the best visual experience, especially in midrange and premium models. 
• Gaming: Gamers should look for features like a high refresh rate, VRR, and ALLM, though true 120Hz refresh rates are typically found only in midrange to premium models. 

Audio 

The sound quality of a TV is often overlooked but is crucial for an immersive experience: 

• Wattage: Higher wattage generally means louder and better sound, especially in larger rooms. 
• Sound Quality: Check for clarity in dialogue, bass levels, and the absence of distortion at high volumes. Midrange and premium TVs usually offer better built-in speakers, but investing in a soundbar or home theatre system can significantly enhance your experience. 
• Advanced Features: Some TVs offer Dolby Atmos support for a more immersive audio experience, particularly in premium models. 

Also Read Dolby Vision vs Dolby Vision IQ vs HDR10: Here’s everything that you should know!

Mounting options in TVs

Mounting options can greatly influence the overall look and practicality of your TV setup: 

• Wall Mounting: Most modern TVs are designed to be wall-mounted, providing a clean, space-saving look. Ensure your wall mount supports the TV’s size and weight. Some mounts allow for tilting or swiveling, which can be useful for reducing glare or adjusting viewing angles. 
• Stand Placement: If you prefer placing your TV on a stand, make sure the stand is sturdy and that the TV fits comfortably within the space available. Check for cable management options to keep your setup neat.TV Buying guide: How to Choose the Right TV

Apart from the monitor, we also had the BenQ ScreenBar Halo monitor light with us and we will also talk about whether it justifies its premium price of Rs. 15,990.

BenQ SW242Q Video Review

BenQ SW242Q review: Specs

• Display: 24-inch, 2K (2560 x 1600), 16:10, IPS LCD, Matte finish, 60Hz
• Design: Tilt: -5˚ – 20˚; Swivel – 30˚/30˚; Pivot – 90˚; Height Adjustment – 120mm
• VESA mount: 100 x 100mm supported
• Connectivity – Card reader, HDMI 2.0, Display Port 1.4, USB C (90W power delivery), USB B, 2x USB 3.1, Audio Jack
• Supported Colour modes: Adobe RGB, B+W, DCI-P3, DICOM, Display P3, HDR, M-Book, Paper Color Sync, Rec.709, sRGB
• Chroma Sampling Support: 4:4:4; 4:2:2; 4:2:0
• Certification – Calman Verified, Pantone Validated, Pantone SkinTone Validated
• Price: Rs. 38,998 (Buy)

What’s in the box?

The BenQ SW242Q Box includes the Monitor, Stand Base, Arm, USB-C cable, HDMI cable, DP cable, USB-A to B cable, IO Cover, Calibration Report and other documentation. The shading hood can be purchased separately.  

Also Read: What are wide colour gamuts like DCI-P3 and why they can be misleading

BenQ SW242Q review: Design

The BenQ SW242Q has a subtle and professional look, featuring a large, flat leatherette base that enhances its appeal while offering a grippy surface to keep accessories like earbuds or your phone securely in place. The grey plastic arm is solid and provides sturdy support for the IPS LCD panel. The stand offers a great range of ergonomic adjustments, including height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. The adjustment specs are what you’d usually expect: 120mm of height adjustment, 30 degrees of swivel, and up to 20 degrees of tilt. A cable management loop is included to keep the rear tidy. However, we did encounter some difficulty clipping the cover tray back on after connecting our cables. 

Bezels around the display are around 7mm thick on three sides with a thicker strip on the bottom edge. OSD menu can be controlled via joystick controls and buttons (there is no wireless puck as in higher-end PhotoVue monitors). We like that the monitor has a dedicated info button which will be helpful for those who do colour-critical work and need to double-check the monitor settings every now and then during calibration. The Monitor Function Key is mapped to Colour Mode by default and can be used to quickly change the colour mode. You can also assign it to contrast, gamma, Input, and other frequently used functions. 

This is a 16:10 monitor which means it’s noticeably taller than regular 24-inch monitors. This extra height is especially beneficial for content creators and professionals who need more vertical screen space. I also found this particularly helpful while reading content and scrutinising mail trails. 

BenQ SW242Q review: Connectivity

Frequently used ports, including the card reader, audio jack, and USB 3.1 ports, are easily accessible on the bottom-left bezel, opposite the OSD menu buttons on the right. 

On the rear, you get an HDMI port, a DisplayPort and a USB Type-C port. The USB Type-C port with 90W power delivery is particularly convenient and can be used to charge your laptop and smartphone. It also supports DisplayPort Alt mode for video input. There are no built-in speakers, but I personally have never really needed them on my monitors. 

BenQ SW242Q review: Display Quality 

BenQ SW242 has a matte-finish IPS LCD display and comes with several assurance certifications. The monitor is Pantone Validated, Calman verified, and Calman ready. Professionals can perform hardware calibration according to their requirements using Calman software or Palette Master Ultimate. 

You can easily access popular colour presets including Adobe RGB, SRGB, Display P3, Rec.709 and HDR from the OSD menu. BenQ has made the Paper Colour Sync available on this affordable PhotoVue monitor. This mode can give you a more accurate preview of how your images will look when printed. There is also a Diacom mode for medical professionals. 

There are three modes to save your hardware calibration. If you are not invested in Portrait Display’s ecosystem, you can also use BenQ’s Pallette Master Pro with most of the popular colourimeters for hardware calibration. 

To start with we wanted to check how well-calibrated the factory modes are. To test the display quality we used Spectracal C6 HDR2000 colorimeter, Videoforge Pro pattern generator and Calman Ultimate software. 

The display can reproduce roughly 99% of DCI-P3, 96.5% of Adobe RGB, and 79% of BT2020 colour space, which is impressive for the price. 

The monitor’s greyscale response in sRGB mode was precise, but its contrast ratio of just 913:1 falls short, making it unsuitable for serious video editing. The limited contrast hampers the ability to display deep blacks and detailed shadows, which are critical for high-quality visual work.

All the frequently used modes are extremely colour-accurate out of the box with an average Delta E less than the humanly perceptible value of 3. 

In the sRGB mode, the average delta error is just 1.4

In the Display P3 mode, the average delta error is 1.8. The maximum deviation is with 100% white

In the AdobeRGB mode, we recorded an average delta error of just 1.5

Since this is a Calman-ready monitor, we tried calibrating it using Autocal for an even tighter response. The monitor still struggles to accurately render near-black details. 

The BenQ SW242Q also supports HDR10 and we measured a peak brightness of around 380 nits. The colour accuracy is again excellent with HDR but the dynamic range and contrast are not enough for an impactful experience. Still, HDR support was useful whenever we needed to watch HDR content. 

This monitor isn’t designed for gaming or motion handling, which is evident in its performance. A faster 120Hz refresh rate could have significantly improved responsiveness, enhancing the overall user experience.

Also Check: Dolby Vision vs Dolby Vision IQ vs HDR10

BenQ ScreenBar Halo Review

Along with the monitor, BenQ also sent us the ScreenBar Halo for review. Initially, I dismissed it as a luxury add-on, but it quickly proved to be a worthwhile upgrade I’d gladly pay for. The ScreenBar illuminates your workspace evenly without casting any light on the monitor!

You can turn off the room lights and enjoy balanced lighting from both the front and back of the ScreenBar. This helps reduce contrast glare between your monitor and surroundings, creating a more comfortable viewing experience, and can even help you customise your work to the environment it will be viewed in. The light also comes with a wireless control puck that feels premium and is quite convenient to use. 

Also Check: RGB to Tandem OLED – 8 Different Types of OLED Display Technologies You Should Know About

BenQ SW242Q Review Verdict: Should you buy it? 

The BenQ SW242Q turned out to be a great option for photographers and also for casual video editors looking for high colour fidelity. It should be particularly appealing for graphic designers who may not require the extreme precision of top-tier colour calibration but still value a dependable colour-accurate monitor for their work.

The preset modes offer excellent colour accuracy and the monitor also supports hardware calibration for finer adjustments. The matte finish display makes it comfortable to work on for long hours. Besides the sharp 2K resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio further help improve productivity. A higher contrast would have made it a more appealing option for video editors as well. 

Pros 

• Excellent colour accuracy across presets
• Wide colour gamut 
• Matte finish and 16:10 aspect ratio add value 
• HDR10 support 
• USB C with 90W power delivery 

Cons

• Low Contrast ratio

So, how do you go about choosing the right TV for your budget? There is no straightforward answer to this question except “read the reviews,” but we will share a few useful insights to help you decide or at least better understand your preferences.

Affordable TVs 

If you’re looking for an affordable TV under Rs. 35,000, you’ll mostly find 43-inch and 50-inch models, with a few competitively priced 55-inch options. Legacy brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG, known for reliable performance, are usually limited to 43-inch displays in this price range.

All TVs in this segment use LED LCD panels, with some featuring Quantum Dot Enhancement Film (QDEF) marketed as QLED TVs. While QLED offers a wider colour gamut, the extra cost may not always be justified by the perceived improvement in picture quality.

Most affordable TVs in this range deliver around 300 nits of peak brightness, which isn’t sufficient for impactful HDR highlights. However, HDR support can still provide a wider colour gamut. Occasionally, we encounter an improperly tuned affordable HDR TV that tone maps the content too dark or adds a weird tint to the picture.

Although many affordable TVs list HDMI 2.1 connectivity, they often do not support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. HDMI 2.0 is adequate for 4K @ 60Hz. Full HDMI 2.1 is needed only for high-resolution gaming at 120Hz. For gaming, look for HDMI 2.1 features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

Regarding software, most TVs in this segment run Google TV, but proprietary interfaces like Amazon’s Fire OS, LG’s WebOS, and Samsung’s Tizen OS are also good options. One thing to look for is that your TV software has well-tuned picture modes. Filmmaker or Cinema mode is recommended for accuracy, though some users prefer more vibrant profiles with cooler whites, which can be oversaturated on affordable TVs.

Midrange TVs

In the mid-range segment, ranging from Rs. 35,000 to 85,000, you can find a wide variety of TVs up to 65 inches in display size. Legacy brands such as Sony, Samsung, and LG often offer lower prices in offline stores compared to online prices. Another interesting aspect of this segment is the availability of excellent deals on popular previous-generation TVs.

For display technologies, this segment offers numerous options including LED LCD and QLED displays. Advanced display technologies like Sony Triluminos Pro, Mini LED, and OLED are also available, but these are mostly restricted to 55-inch or smaller display sizes. 

The processors on mid-range TVs are usually faster than those on affordable TVs, but it is still rare to find a TV with snappy performance. Internal storage is usually 8GB or 16GB which should suffice for most people. However, opting for 16GB is advisable for better long-term performance.

You can easily find TVs that support popular HDR formats such as Dolby Vision, HDR10/10+, and HLG, except for Samsung TVs which don’t support Dolby Vision. Many mid-range TVs, especially in the lower end of the segment, use 8-bit panels with Frame Rate Control (FRC) to display 10-bit HDR content. With such TVs, you may sometimes notice artefacts in gradients, such as in the vast expanse of orange skies in the Martian.

For console gamers, several QLED TVs offer a 120Hz refresh rate, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). However, not all TVs have true or native 120Hz refresh rate support. In the lower mid-range segment, TVs often use frame interpolation to achieve a higher refresh rate. If you are not a hardcore gamer, the practical difference might not be as obvious, though. 

Manufacturers sometimes use different marketing terms like TruMotion, Motion Rate, MotionFlow XR, and others, advertising higher numbers like 240, 480, or more for displays with 60Hz or 120Hz refresh rates.

Premium TVs 

When opting for premium TVs, you can expect a refined cinema and gaming experience. Depending on your budget, you can choose from bright QLED and QNED displays with Mini LED backlights or self-emissive OLED and QD-OLED displays in large sizes. We recommend sticking to legacy brands when buying a premium TV, as they typically offer dependable after-sales support and service networks.

OLED TVs provide the best contrast, deepest blacks and impactful HDR experience due to pixel-level brightness control, although power users and demanding gamers might face some longevity concerns. Mini LED TVs, on the other hand, are more durable and can achieve remarkable brightness, which makes them preferable for bright living rooms.

Most premium TVs deliver snappy performance and responsive displays with high refresh rates and VRR support. Manufacturers have their own approaches to handling image processing and HDR. For instance, Sony analyzes every scene and tone-maps based on the average pixel brightness on a frame-by-frame basis. LG adjusts the HDR signal to maximise highlight and shadow details according to the TV’s capabilities, while Samsung leans towards making the picture look pleasant.

If you aren’t particular about these nuances and specific image preferences, you will likely be satisfied with any of these approaches.

Google TV vs Android TV

As part of a Google strategy, the Android TV interface has now been replaced by Google TV. If you purchased your TV in the last couple of years, it probably came with Google TV out of the box. Google TV interface is similar to Android TV but focuses more on content recommendations. All the Google TV tips and tricks we discuss will also apply to Android TVs.

Also Read: 8 Different Types of OLED Display Technologies You Should Know About

Best Google TV Tips and Tricks that you must try

Let’s now talk about some of the things that you can try on your new Google TV

1) Apps only mode

If you are not into recommendations, you can switch to App Only mode to speed up your Google TV performance. This removes all the clutter and leaves only your apps on the home screen. To enable Apps Only mode: 

• Go to the Google TV home screen.
• Select “Settings”.
• Choose “Accounts & Sign In”.
• Select your profile.
• Look for “Apps only mode” and turn it on.

This also means you will be eliminating the “Continue watching” roaster which I personally find quite useful. 

Also Read: What are MicroLED displays? How are they better than OLED or mini LED displays?

2) Remap buttons on your remote 

Button Mapper is a very popular app that can be used to customise the buttons on the remote of your Google TV. You can remap these buttons to launch apps, shortcuts, or perform custom actions with a single press, double tap, or long press.

This is a great way to make use of extra buttons on your Google TV or even to remap hotkeys to apps that you use frequently. You can pay Rs. 190 to unlock the Pro tier, which allows access to more functions.

Also Read: Brightness ratings for smartphones explained – HBM, Peak Brightness, HDR Brightness and more

3) Download apps or set up your watchlist from any device

Of course, Google TV leverages the vast Google ecosystem advantage. If you use an Android phone, you can directly download apps to your TV from the Play Store on your phone. Just look up the app in the Google Play Store. Now press the drop-down button next to the Install button as depicted in the image above. Select your TV from the drop-down menu and the app will directly install on your TV. Similarly, you can also directly download apps to your TV by opening Play Store in a browser on your laptop or any other device. 

The Google TV app on Android or iOS devices can help you customise your TV experience. You can directly set your watchlist from the app or even from the widget in Google Search that shows up whenever you look for content. You can also pull a virtual remote from the Google TV app whenever you need to. 

Also Read: Dolby Vision vs Dolby Vision IQ vs HDR10: Here’s everything that you should know!

4) Rearrange Apps on Google TV

To move apps you use more frequently to the front, just go to the “Your Apps” row and navigate to the app that you wish to move. Now long press the app and you will get the option to “move” the app. You can now use the left and right buttons to move the app to your preferred spot. 

Also Read: What are wide colour gamuts like DCI-P3 and why can they be misleading?

5) Set up Profiles for family members

If different family members in your home use the same Google TV, it is highly recommended that you set up separate profiles for everyone. This way, everyone can have their own watchlist and receive better content recommendations based on their tastes and preferences. You can also add parental controls to specific profiles or password-protect them.

6) Try a different launcher 

If you feel the Google TV interface is too boring, you can try a different launcher to refresh your experience. Launchers like Projectivy Launcher offer more personalisation options to fine-tune the interface. The launcher comes with several useful test patterns to help you calibrate your TV. This paid version also unlocks the ability to add more display profiles. 

Also Read: Best Mini LED TVs to buy in India

7) Take screenshots and screen recordings on Google TV

To take Screenshots on your Google TV, you can use Button Mapper. The app lets you map a dedicated hardware button as a screenshot button as shown in the image below. 

But if you are familiar with ADB, you can easily take screenshots and pull them to your PC using the following commands. 

• Take a screenshot: adb shell screencap /sdcard/screenshot1.png
• Pull the screenshot in your ADB folder: adb pull /sdcard/screenshot1.png

To record your TV screen you can use the following command: 

• To start screen recording: adb shell screenrecord /sdcard/recording.mp4 
• To stop screen recording: press Ctrl + C
• To pull screen recording: adb pull /sdcard/recording.mp4

8) Ambient mode shortcut

Ambient Mode is a screensaver feature on Google TV that adds aesthetic appeal to your living room. When your TV isn’t in use, Ambient Mode activates, displaying either an art gallery or your photos, depending on your setup choice.

To trigger Ambient Mode, just press the home button and then the back button. This shortcut is convenient compared to navigating through the settings menu. 

Reduce background transmission — privacy submenu,  Send files to TV, Web video caster

Also Read: QNED vs QLED vs OLED TVs: What’s the difference?

9) Power on behaviour

If you have an external media device connected to your Google TV via HDMI port, you can change the power-on behaviour to automatically switch to the last used input when you turn on your TV. This will save you the trouble of manually switching inputs every time you turn on your TV. 

This feature is quite helpful if you have plugged in an external streaming stick or even if you keep your gaming console connected to your TV. 

Also Read: QD-OLED vs MLA OLED vs OLED Ex vs OLED WBE vs OLED WBC TV panels: What’s the difference?

10) Send Files to your Google TV

The Send Files to TV app is incredibly useful for transferring files between your phone and TV without the need for cables. For instance, you might use it to push an APK file to sideload an app on your Google TV or to quickly project a presentation during a work meeting. It’s also handy for sending movies or TV shows to your smart TV for a better viewing experience.

“At Hisense, we’re driven by innovation that empowers every user,” said Mr. Pankaj Rana, CEO of Hisense India. “Our new 2024 TV range goes beyond traditional benchmarks, integrating user-centric features and AI for a truly immersive experience. This lineup signifies our commitment to democratizing premium technology and transforming home entertainment.”

Hisense Q7N and U7N

Hisense Q7N and U7N are both high-end 4K smart TVs in Hisense’s 2024 lineup, but they differ in picture quality technology. The Q7N features QLED technology and IMAX certification. The software is a the proprietary VIDAA operating system. The Q7N is available in 55, 65, 85, and 100-inch size options. 

The U7N utilises Mini LED technology for precise lighting control. It also includes Quantum Dot color technology, full array local dimming, and claims 1200+ nits brightness. The TV will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes. Both TVs come with 3GB RAM and 8GB of internal storage. The premium voice remote and subwoofers are other highlights to look forward to. 

Hisense U6N Pro

The Hisense U6N Pro is available in 55 and 65-inch options. This one too includes Mini LED technology, Full Array Local Dimming, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Game Mode Plus (ALLM and VRR), and AI Sports Mode.  The TV supports 120Hz VRR which should be appealing to gamers. The software is Hisense’s own VIDAA operating system. 

Hisense E68N 

The Hisense E68N is a 4K Google TV and is the affordable option in the series.  E68N offers Dolby Vision, Game Mode Plus (ALLM and VRR), and Far Field Voice Control for effortless navigation. It is available in 43 and 55 inch options.

Price and Availability

The Q7N is exclusively available on Amazon at a starting price of Rs 53,999 and the U6N Pro is exclusively available on Flipkart at a starting price of Rs 59,999. The other models will be available on both Flipkart and Amazon. The 55-inch U7N mini LED TV will be available for a starting price of Rs 79,999. The E68N starts for Rs 31,999 for the 43-inch variant.

Brightness vs Luminance: What’s the difference?

Brightness and luminance are related but different concepts when talking about displays. Brightness is how bright an image looks to your eyes, which can also vary based on the lighting around you.

Luminance, on the other hand, is a precise measurement of the amount of light a display emits per unit area, usually in units like candelas per square meter or nits. So, brightness is more about how bright something seems, while luminance is about the actual amount of light the display gives off. 

For example, a display with high luminance might not look brighter if the content on the screen is mostly dark.

Manufacturers typically use ‘Brightness’ while talking about display capabilities because it’s a more universally understood term. In this article, we will use ‘Brightness’ and ‘Luminance’ interchangeably to keep it simple for readers.

Also Read: Dolby Vision vs Dolby Vision IQ vs HDR10: Here’s everything that you should know!

Why are smartphone manufacturers advertising crazy high brightness stats?

The concepts of brightness and dimming on LCD displays, which depend on a backlight for luminance, are simple and straightforward. However, most new and upcoming smartphones use OLED displays with individually powered pixels that make the management of brightness for OLEDs a more complex affair.

Power consumption in AMOLED screens depends heavily on the content displayed, with higher power usage for white images and less for darker ones. This is why, when measuring the luminance of an OLED display, a concept called Average Picture Level (APL) comes into play.

Also Read: What are wide colour gamuts like DCI-P3 and why can they be misleading?

Average Picture Level (APL) refers to the average luminance of an image or video frame. It is the percentage of the display that is currently lit compared to a full white screen where all pixels are lit.

Smartphone displays have a maximum power limit. This means OLED displays can allocate more power per pixel with a lower APL. So, if your OLED screen is completely black with a 1% white window, this tiny spot can output more light (or higher luminance).

This is how OEMs can claim extreme brightness numbers like 4000 nits and 6000 nits. These luminance levels are measured on small windows measuring 1% to 5% and cannot be achieved on a full-field or 100% white screen. Of course, the window size on which these measurements are taken is often not specified.

To put these numbers in perspective, most real-world applications can easily reach an 80% or higher APL (Light Mode), making those extreme brightness stats measured on tiny windows less relevant in practical scenarios. At the same time, most OLED displays on modern smartphones support HDR, where higher brightness at low APL can be beneficial for reproducing more impactful highlights in certain sequences. 

Also Read: What are MicroLED displays? How are they better than OLED or mini LED displays?

Different Brightness Ratings that you will run into 

It’s becoming standard practice for OEMs to mention multiple brightness ratings. Let’s detail some of the popular ones. 

Maximum Brightness (Typical)

Maximum Brightness refers to the highest level of luminance your smartphone display can achieve when the brightness slider is set to its maximum position (usually with auto-brightness disabled). It is also often termed as Manual Brightness.

This brightness number is often the lowest among the claimed stats and most Android OEMs don’t choose not to mention it on their spec sheet. 

High Brightness Mode (HBM) 

High Brightness Mode (HBM) refers to the maximum brightness your phone can achieve when outdoors under direct sunlight. This mode is typically activated only when auto-brightness control is enabled. During HBM, the display operates beyond its standard limits, and therefore, these elevated luminance levels can only be sustained for a short duration.

Apple refers to this as Peek Brightness (Outdoor) while some other OEMs refer to it as Peak Brightness (global) or simply as Peak Brightness.

Also Read: Best Mini LED TVs to buy in India

Peak Brightness (local)

Peak Brightness (Local) is not a very useful statistic since these luminance levels are rarely achievable in practical scenarios. This brightness is measured at an extremely low Average Pixel Level (APL), with less than 5% of the screen turned on.

This is the highest brightness figure manufacturers can advertise, and it is often referred to simply as Peak Brightness by many brands such as OnePlus and Realme.

Peak Brightness (HDR) 

This denotes the maximum luminance level that a display can achieve when showing HDR content. Again, it is a bit ambiguous since manufacturers don’t always specify on what APL the luminance was achieved. Pixel for instance says that 1600 Nits of Peak HDR Brightness for Pixel 8 Pro is measured at a “100% on-pixel ratio” or a 100% window size.

While playing HDR content, maximum brightness is used for showing details in highlights and often needs to be sustained for a very short time, and so the display can be pushed to get brighter. 

Also, different brands have different approaches to how users can adjust brightness while viewing HDR (High Dynamic Range) content on their devices.

SDR Brightness

Although not widely emphasized, SDR brightness is a straightforward metric that denotes the maximum brightness a display can achieve with a full SDR white screen (all pixels lit). Apple has specified an SDR brightness of 1,000 nits for its new iPad Pro, which should be beneficial for content creators considering it to get an idea of the display’s capabilities.

Also Read: QNED vs QLED vs OLED TVs: What’s the difference?

How we test brightness in Digit test labs?

Since everyone is playing by different rules, it makes sense to measure peak brightness on a 100% white window with the brightness slider set to maximum. This way, we can ensure an objective comparison across devices. We also measure HBM brightness on a 100% white window to check how close the displays come to manufacturer claims. 

We also check for how brightness adjustments are managed. For example, some phones achieve higher luminance in manual mode, while others do so with auto-brightness enabled. We also keep an eye out for any abrupt transitions in luminance while moving the slider or while playing HDR content.