[Interview] 3M: "Next-Generation Polarizer-Free OLED... Developing Solutions for Foldables" [CES 2026]

Park Sunyong, 3M Specialist
Samsung and LG Compete in Next-Generation OLEDs
Foldables Challenge Apple
Display Film Materials Become Even More Crucial

Global materials company 3M unveiled its next-generation optical solutions development strategy at 'CES 2026,' the world's largest electronics and IT exhibition, in line with the spread of 'COE OLED (Circularly Polarizer-Free Organic Light Emitting Diode).' This technology is expected to play a decisive role in determining the quality of next-generation OLEDs currently being developed by Samsung and LG.

On the 7th (local time) at the CES 2026 venue, Park Sunyong, Application Engineering Specialist at 3M, told reporters, "We are developing a next-generation optical film solution that can finely control the reflection and transmission of light, improving visibility while maintaining brightness." COE OLED removes the polarizer that was previously attached to the front of the traditional OLED structure. By eliminating the polarizer, it is possible to enhance screen brightness and energy efficiency, which is why major home appliance and display companies such as Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics are developing this as their next-generation OLED technology.

However, removing the polarizer causes more external light to be reflected on the screen, which can make it difficult to see the display outdoors or reduce the contrast ratio. Park emphasized, "Additional optical technologies are absolutely necessary to compensate for these issues."

Currently, COE OLED is being used in foldable OLEDs. Foldable devices have more complex screen structures and are frequently used outdoors, making visibility issues even more pronounced. If related optical solutions mature sufficiently in the future, their applications are expected to expand beyond bar-type smartphones to tablets and laptops.

The key to the quality of foldable displays lies not in the screen itself but in the 'bonding technology.' To address these challenges, 3M is applying a transparent adhesive material (OCA) specifically designed for foldables. The adhesive layer is engineered not just for strong adhesion, but also for crease recovery, minimizing wrinkles when the screen is unfolded after repeated folding.

3M is proactively identifying market trends and developing adhesive and optical materials accordingly. The company believes that as form factors become more complex, the importance of materials technology will only grow.

3M is also investing in optical film technology that makes screens brighter and clearer. Through mirror-based optical films that precisely control light reflection, the company prevents light from leaking or being lost inside the display. Applying this technology allows screens to appear brighter with the same power consumption, making it highly useful in areas where visibility is crucial, such as smartphones and automotive displays.

On the 7th (local time), visitors are exploring the 3M exhibition booth at 'CES 2026' held at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) North Hall in the United States. Photo by Park Jun.

Regarding various form factors that have recently attracted attention, such as dual-fold and tri-fold, dual-fold remains the mainstream. Park explained, "Tri-fold aims for usability similar to a tablet, but there are still challenges to be addressed in terms of quality and practicality." As a result, manufacturers differ in their approach, with some viewing foldables as an extension of smartphones, while others see them as potential replacements for tablets or laptops.