Panel gets to grips with ePaper
DSS Europe chair Florian Rotberg was joined by five ePaper experts to discuss the fast-moving evolution of the technology and the likely markets for its implementation.
An overview was provided by Hui Lee, president of E Ink Netherlands. She reported that following years of extensive study and trials the development of colour platforms has advanced the success of the display medium to the “next level”. She said that current developmental focus is on the introduction of wider operational temperature ranges, larger size screens and the ability to play video content. “We can currently play animations,” she said, “and are working hard to achieve more."
Martin Lienau, product manager at Sharp/NEC, revealed that he felt that a job of educating partners and end-users needed to be done. “They expect flawless, seamless integration,” he said. Dmitry Rizol, sales engineer at Samsung Europe, said that he always gets asked, “What is the brightness?” Lienau continued: “I see ePaper being used when it makes sense to use it. It will not replace LCD but rather complement it, particularly when you don’t have a practical solution such as a lack of a mount on a wall."
David Keribin, co-founder and CEO at Cenareo, said that he felt "it can be a game changer in the print industry. The markets with the greatest potential are retail, corporate and hospitality,” he revealed. Hui added that she would add to this digital art, as seen in hospitals, hotels and museums. Keribin said a real bonus with ePaper displays is that agencies can be 100% sure that their display is working and being viewed, unlike the print equivalent. Lienau added that advertisers want to be seen to be modern and paper free. ‘It’s flexibility at a price,” he said.
Andrea Barbuti, global product management lead at Philips Professional Display Systems, pointed out that there remains a challenge of how to read the signs at night. Hui Lee responded that surrounding lights can easily be added when the natural light disappears.
The panel agreed that the ePaper is an exciting area to be involved with and that they expect continued momentum during the next 12 months. All to be revealed at DSSE 2026!
