The Chinese display maker is reportedly preparing to build a massive new 8.6-generation OLED production line in China, according to market intelligence firm UBI Research.
TCL CSOT has long touted inkjet-printed RGB OLED as a potentially superior and more cost-effective alternative to WOLED and QD-OLED.
In October 2024, the company claimed a breakthrough before beginning small-scale production of printed OLED monitor panels later that year. In May 2025, it showcased a full line-up of printed OLEDs ranging from 6.5 to 65 inches.
Also read: First impressions of TCL's promising RGB OLED display
8.6G plant for printed OLED
To compete with LG Display and Samsung Display in OLED panel production, TCL CSOT would need to significantly scale up its manufacturing capabilities.
Now, according to UBI Research, it has finalized an investment plan to do exactly that, with plans to install production equipment by the end of 2026.
- "According to UBI Research’s China Market Trend Report, Chinese display company TCL CSOT (China Star Optoelectronics Technology) is planning to construct a new 8.6-generation (2290x2620mm) OLED line at the T8 site near its existing T9 OLED line in Guangzhou. This investment will be based on inkjet printing technology, with a total investment scale of approximately RMB 20 billion," said UBI Research.
TCL's RGB OLED could challenge QD-OLED and WOLED with better color and lower costs
It will be huge
UBI says T8 will eventually house two 8.6G lines with a combined monthly capacity of 45,000 substrates. Initially, only one line will be built. The large 8.6G substrates can be cut into smaller OLED panels for TVs, monitors, IT devices, smartphones etc.
For comparison, Chinese BOE's upcoming 8.6G OLED plant will have a capacity of 33,000 substrates, while Samsung Display's new A6 line will produce 15,000 substrates.
In other words, TCL's new OLED plant will be huge, and thanks to printing technology it reportedly costs 30% less to build.
UBI Research expects TCL CSOT to make an official announcement later this month, with groundbreaking set for October.
- "Inkjet OLED still faces technological challenges in brightness, lifespan, large-area uniformity, and yield. Nevertheless, China is positioning this differentiated technology from traditional deposition as a next-generation growth driver and, under strategic government support, is preparing for full-scale mass production. Through investments in inkjet technology by TCL CSOT and ViP (Visionox intelligent Pixelization) by Visionox, China is pushing ahead with the first mass production of large-area OLEDs, aiming to secure technological leadership," said Han Changwook, EVP of UBI Research.
