Planar's New 21by9 Display: A Benchmark for Visuals and Enterprise Values

PORTLAND, OR – June 02, 2026 – Planar, a veteran in the high-stakes world of visualization technology, today unveiled a product line that feels less like an iteration and more like a statement. The new Planar® 21by9 Series is a family of ultra-wide 5K resolution LCD displays that combines cinematic grandeur with a suite of features squarely aimed at the most demanding enterprise and government clients. While the visual specifications are undeniably impressive, a closer look reveals a meticulous focus on security, sustainability, and practical integration that signals a broader shift in what defines a premium commercial asset.

At first glance, the series commands attention with its panoramic 21:9 aspect ratio, available in massive 81, 94, and 105-inch formats. But the true innovation lies under the glass. This launch moves beyond simply chasing higher pixel counts and enters a more nuanced conversation about the quality and responsibility of technology in the modern workplace.

Setting a New Visual Benchmark

Planar has built its reputation on delivering best-in-class image performance for critical environments, and the 21by9 Series is engineered to push that boundary. The company is introducing what it calls a “first-of-its-kind quantum dot Mini-LED backlight” in this form factor. Unlike traditional backlights, Mini-LED technology uses thousands of smaller LEDs grouped into up to 2,560 local dimming zones. This granular control, driven by a proprietary algorithm, allows for extraordinary contrast, achieving a 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio that produces deep, inky blacks right next to searingly bright highlights.

The peak brightness of up to 2,500 nits is a critical component of this performance, enabling the series to achieve VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification. This is not a common badge. As the highest tier of the Video Electronics Standards Association's DisplayHDR standard, it requires exceptional peak luminance, a vast color gamut, and profound contrast, ensuring that what users see is a true representation of high dynamic range content. Paired with HDR10+ certification for dynamic, frame-by-frame optimization, the result is an image with stunning realism and depth. For professionals in design, broadcast, or private cinema, this level of fidelity is paramount.

“The Planar 21by9 Series represents the pinnacle of commercial LCD visual quality, combining a cinematic 21:9 canvas with extraordinary color, brightness, contrast and fast refresh rate to deliver a wow viewing experience,” said Sidney Rittenberg, Chief Executive Officer at Planar. This experience is further enhanced by a native 120Hz refresh rate, which delivers fluid motion for everything from video conferencing to fast-moving data visualizations, reducing motion blur and contributing to a more comfortable viewing experience during long work sessions.

A Canvas for Modern Productivity

The most significant impact of the 21by9 Series may be on enterprise collaboration and productivity. The 21:9 aspect ratio is perfectly suited for modern unified communication platforms, such as the Front Row layout in Microsoft Teams, which places remote participants at eye level and dedicates ample space for shared content and chat functions. This panoramic view creates a more inclusive and equitable meeting experience, bridging the gap between in-person and remote attendees.

Beyond video conferencing, the expansive 5120x2160 resolution provides a vast digital canvas that can effectively replace cumbersome dual-monitor setups. For operators in a control room, this means monitoring multiple security feeds or data streams without distracting bezels. For a financial analyst, it means viewing complex dashboards and spreadsheets in their entirety. This consolidation of visual information onto a single, seamless display enhances focus and streamlines workflow. The inclusion of both touch and non-touch versions, along with flexible picture-in-picture layouts, adds another layer of versatility for interactive presentations and multitasking.

Planar also addressed a key logistical hurdle for large-format displays: physical integration. The entire line is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for installed depth, ensuring the display protrudes less than four inches from the wall. This is a crucial detail for architects and AV integrators designing public lobbies, hallways, and conference rooms, simplifying compliance and maximizing usable space.

More Than a Display: A Secure and Sustainable Asset

Perhaps the most telling aspect of this launch is Planar’s emphasis on features that extend beyond the screen. In an era where any networked device is a potential security liability, the company’s commitment to robust cybersecurity is a significant differentiator. The 21by9 Series is compliant with the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) EN 303 645 standard. While this standard was developed for consumer Internet of Things (IoT) devices, its application here demonstrates a proactive approach to enterprise security, addressing fundamental vulnerabilities like universal default passwords, insecure data storage, and the lack of a secure software update mechanism. For IT departments, this certification provides crucial assurance that the displays can be safely integrated into a corporate network.

Furthermore, the series is compliant with the Trade Agreement Act (TAA), making it eligible for procurement by U.S. government agencies. This certification is a stamp of approval regarding the product’s country of origin and secure supply chain, a factor of increasing importance for public sector and security-conscious corporate clients.

This holistic approach extends to environmental and social responsibility. The displays are ENERGY STAR® certified for efficiency. The manufacturing process adheres to a host of ISO standards for quality, environmental, and social management. Components are Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) compliant, and even the packaging is thoughtfully designed, using FSC-certified paperboard and soy-based ink. This comprehensive commitment to sustainability reflects a deep understanding of the modern enterprise, where procurement decisions are increasingly influenced by a company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) scorecard.

The new Planar 21by9 Series, set to be showcased at InfoComm 2026 this June and begin shipping in the third quarter, is more than just a beautiful display. It is a carefully engineered tool that reflects the complex demands of the modern organization, where elite performance must coexist with rigorous security and a tangible commitment to sustainability.