TCL’s QM9K TVs first to feature built-in Google Gemini AI

TCL has announced the QM9K, its new flagship QD mini LED television series that will be the first TVs to feature Gemini built into Google TV. The integration represents a significant step forward in smart TV technology, combining advanced AI capabilities with hands-free operation and premium display features.

What you should know: The QM9K series introduces several industry-first features that could reshape how users interact with their televisions.

• Users can engage with Gemini using the standard “Hey Google” voice prompt to find movies, ask questions about any topic, and control smart home devices synced through Google Home.
• An mmWave sensor acts as a radar system to detect when someone is in front of the TV, enabling completely hands-free wake functionality with customizable distance settings and operating hours.
• Google TV on the QM9K supports creating custom AI screensavers based on user descriptions or prompts.

Technical specifications: The displays deliver substantial improvements in both visual quality and design compared to previous models.

• The “Zero Border” edge-to-edge WHVA panels promise excellent color accuracy with a bezel-less design.
• Up to 6,000 precise dimming zones provide deep contrast—a 57 percent increase over the QM8K series.
• Peak brightness reaches up to 6,500 nits in HDR, representing a 30 percent boost over its predecessor.

Product lineup: The QM9K series covers a wide range of screen sizes to accommodate different spaces and preferences.

• Panel sizes range from 65 inches to 98 inches.
• Audio is handled by Bang & Olufsen, rounding out the premium positioning.
• The TVs will be available at Best Buy and select regional retailers later this month.

Why this matters: The integration of Gemini directly into TV hardware signals a broader shift toward AI-powered entertainment experiences, potentially setting new expectations for smart TV functionality and user interaction patterns across the industry.