Samsung Electronics announced the global launch of its 13-inch Color E-Paper (model EM13DX) on January 28, 2026. The display marks the first commercial product to use a bio-resin housing derived from phytoplankton, combined with 45% recycled plastic in the housing materials, as verified by UL.
The 13-inch screen measures similar to A4 paper size, with a 1,600 x 1,200 resolution in a 4:3 aspect ratio. It features a 17.9mm slim profile and weighs 0.9kg, including the embedded rechargeable battery.
USB Type-C charging and flexible mounting options allow cable-free installation in retail settings like shelves, counters, and doors.
The display uses advanced digital ink technology for paper-like color and clarity, with zero power consumption for static images.
Content updates consume far less energy than conventional digital signage. Samsung developed an imaging algorithm to improve color accuracy, gradations, and contours.
Management occurs locally via the Samsung E-Paper App on Android and iOS devices or remotely through the Samsung VXT cloud platform, which includes content preview and optimization tools. Samsung plans to show a new 20-inch model at ISE 2026 in Barcelona from February 3-6.
Why This Matters Today
Businesses increasingly seek sustainable alternatives to printed signage amid rising energy costs and environmental regulations.
This 13-inch model targets small-format applications where paper signs dominate, offering a transition to digital without constant power draw or complex wiring.
The phytoplankton bio-resin reduces reliance on petroleum-based plastics and cuts manufacturing carbon emissions by over 40% compared to traditional resins, per internal Samsung testing.
The housing’s 55% combined sustainable content (45% recycled plastic plus 10% bio-resin) and 100% paper packaging align with broader corporate sustainability goals.
E-paper technology holds static images indefinitely at zero watts, which lowers long-term operating expenses in retail, hospitality, and office environments compared to always-on LCD or LED displays. Rechargeable battery life supports repositioning for seasonal or promotional changes.
Samsung holds a 36.2% share of the global digital signage market by volume in Q3 2025. The addition of smaller sizes builds on the existing 32-inch Color E-Paper and positions the lineup for wider adoption.
Our Key Takeaways:
Samsung expanded its Color E-Paper series with a compact, sustainable option aimed at replacing printed signage in businesses.
- Samsung released the 13-inch EM13DX Color E-Paper on January 28, 2026, as the first display worldwide to incorporate phytoplankton-derived bio-resin in its housing.
- The display achieves zero power for static images and uses bio-based materials to lower environmental impact and operating costs compared to traditional signage.
- Watch for the 20-inch model debut at ISE 2026 and further adoption of the lineup in retail and commercial settings as sustainability demands grow.
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