Vizio extends its LCD HDTV sales lead; new 3D, VIA Plus and ultrawidescreen TVs are on the way

We already took a fresh look at the Vizio Tablet due this summer, but the company's main business is HDTVs and there it's on top of US LCD sales again, with more than 20 percent of the market in Q1. Of the top five selling TVs in Q1, four are Vizios priced at $698 or less, while the other is a $1,699 MSRP Samsung LCD. Vizio launched its lower end E3D line earlier this year, the next series on the way are edge-lit M3D models due in August and September that up the refresh rate to 240Hz, come with four pairs of passive 3D glasses instead of two and have a Bluetooth remote. Up next, the 21:9 ultrawidescreen sets we saw at CES are real and will ship in October as the Cinemawide series in 2560x1080 58- and 50-inch models. Finally, the top of of the line XVT 6 series will feature the new VIA Plus Google TV platform and are going to be available in 47- and 55-inch sizes, but won't ship until December There's still no prices for any of these yet, but we're going to guess they'll go low as they usually do. Check the press release for all the details after the break including a glancing mention of the Vizio Phone.

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VIZIO Brings Theater 3D™ Technology to All with a Full Lineup of Bright, Flicker-Free 3D HDTVs Including Three 21:9 Cinemawide HDTV Models

- VIZIO announces Theater 3D HDTVs in all three product groups -- E Series, M Series, XVT Series and the new 21:9 Cinemawide models, with screen sizes ranging from 32" to 65"

IRVINE, Calif., and NEW YORK, June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- (CEA Line Shows) -- VIZIO, America's #1 LCD HDTV Company*, revealed today their full line up of Theater 3D™ LCD HDTVs, including the ultra-sleek M Series models. All of VIZIO's new 3D HDTV models use Theater 3D passive 3D technology to achieve superior performance with a bright, crystal clear, virtually flicker-free 3D picture. Available in each of VIZIO's product series, E, M and XVT, in screen sizes ranging from 32 to 65 inches, Theater 3D technology will be available in 11 models at a wide range of performance and price levels, making the entertainment freedom of VIZIO's 3D technology available for all.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110622/LA24270)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090204/LA66605LOGO)

"We are highly encouraged by the positive response our circular polarized 3D technology has received from industry experts, the press, and Hollywood leaders like James Cameron," said Randy Waynick, VIZIO's Chief Sales Officer. "VIZIO's early commitment to this direction, with its superior viewer experience, has enabled us to develop the industry's most comprehensive range of 3D HDTVs, ranging from introductory price levels to the most advanced cinematic displays available today."

VIZIO Theater 3D HDTVs use a revolutionary new technology to deliver crystal-clear, flicker-free 3D that's up to 2 times brighter than current active shutter LCD TVs, with significantly less crosstalk, a wider horizontal viewing angle, and much less blurring with fast motion. Theater 3D eyewear produces far less eyestrain and headaches than active glasses, and is battery-free, lightweight and comfortable. Up to four pairs of Theater 3D glasses are provided with each set, and they are also available in a rapidly growing range of styles and colors from brand name designers. They even work in most 3D movie theaters!

"Passive polarized 3D TVs will appeal to many consumers for a variety of reasons, and products at a variety of price points are possible too," noted Insight Media President, Chris Chinnock. "By 2014, sales of passive sets will outpace shutter glasses sets, according to our forecast."

VIZIO's passive Theater 3D technology utilizes circular polarization, producing superior performance that results in a better viewing experience. This technology uses Polarizer Filters built into the TV, enabling viewers to use lighter and more stylish glasses instead of the bulky, heavy and uncomfortable active shutter glasses used for other 3D TVs. VIZIO's technology team was an early champion of this approach for 3D TV, which has led to VIZIO taking a market-leading position in the adaptation of Passive 3D technology for the home.

"DisplaySearch is forecasting that North America 3D TV shipments will increase by more than 300% in 2011 to 7M units**, driven by a range of new 3D TV types, including circular polarizer filter systems like VIZIO's Theater 3D," stated Paul Gagnon, Director of North America TV Market Research, DisplaySearch.

Each Theater 3D™ model supports the widest range of 3D encoding formats, ensuring compatibility with Blu-ray, broadcast, cable, satellite, and gaming sources. These formats include Frame Packing, Side-by-Side, Top and Bottom, as well as those with SENSIO® HiFi 3D and by RealD.

VIZIO Smart Dimming for Leading Picture Performance

VIZIO's Edge-Lit Razor LED™ technology with Smart Dimming™ is featured on the M Series models and the Cinemawide 50" and 58" HDTVs. VIZIO Smart Dimming™ intelligently controls each set's array of LEDs, which is organized in zones. Working frame by frame, based on the content being displayed, Smart Dimming adjusts brightness in precise steps down to pure black (where the LED is completely off). This cutting-edge technology minimizes light leakage and enables a Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 5 Million to 1, for blacker blacks and whiter whites.

The XVT Series models at 47" and 55" will utilize VIZIO's Full Array TruLED™ backlighting with Smart Dimming™ technology. With over 160 zones across the entire display, TruLED backlighting is able to control specific areas of the image to a much finer degree than edge-lit sets, resulting in even better blacks and higher contrast with life-like images that "pop" off the screen.

VIZIO Internet Apps Deliver More Entertainment Freedom

All of VIZIO's new Theater 3D models feature the VIZIO Internet Apps® (V.I.A.) Connected HDTV platform. VIZIO Internet Apps deliver unprecedented choice and control of web-based content directly to VIZIO televisions or Blu-ray players without the need for a PC or set-top box.

VIZIO's new XVT Series models will include the next generation VIZIO V.I.A. Plus platform, which delivers a unified and intuitive user experience across multiple devices, including HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets and more.

Navigating VIZIO Internet Apps is simple, using the QWERTY keypad built into the included remote control (most models). State of the art wireless Internet access is available through built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi (many models with Dual Band Wi-Fi), allowing viewers to enjoy the convenience of on-demand movies, TV shows, social networking, music, photos and more with just the push of a button.

Audio for a Home Theater Experience

The stunning 3D video of the Theater 3D™ sets is matched by the latest high performance audio technologies from SRS Labs. SRS technologies help deliver an immersive, virtual, high definition surround sound through StudioSound™ HD -- the ultimate all-in-one audio suite designed specifically for flat panel TVs. Years of excellence in audio, practical experience, and patented technologies allow StudioSound HD to deliver the most immersive and natural surround sound ever using built-in TV speakers. The suite also delivers remarkably crisp and clear dialog, rich bass, an elevated soundstage and consistent, spike-free volume levels. StudioSound HD features optimized audio presets for movies, news, sports and music while also providing a built-in EQ toolset for peak audio performance.

Experience M Series Theater 3D™ at Home

VIZIO's newest Theater 3D™ set to hit the shelves this summer is the sleek and stunning M Series. At only 1.2" thin*** (42" and 47" models. 55" model is just 1.6" thin***), this HDTV makes the most incredible technology on the market available at the best value. Not only will you have beautiful LED 2D picture quality at 42", 46" and 55" sizes, but the latest addition of VIZIO's Theater 3D technology to this series will make this the perfect centerpiece to any family room. Pair that with four pairs of stylish Theater 3D™ glasses and built in VIZIO Internet Apps, and make your family room the number one summer destination.

Cinemawide HDTV Ultra-Widescreen

VIZIO's Cinemawide HDTV™, 21:9 aspect ratio TVs are the ultimate display for cinema enthusiasts. Its unique ability to display films created in the CinemaScope 2.35:1 aspect ratio on its full screen, without any black bars, means viewers will see each frame of the movie as the director intended, providing an immersive movie experience at home. On traditional HDTV models, prime screen real estate is taken up by these black bars, forcing home theater enthusiasts to stretch and zoom in. Now instead of a stretched and distorted picture, VIZIO's Cinemawide sets ensure movie buffs will never have to miss an inch of the action.

Most HDTVs have an aspect ratio of 16:9 (sometimes called 1.78:1), with a native resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 (Full HD). This aspect ratio was selected as the ATSC HDTV standard as a compromise between television's original aspect ratio (4:3 or 1.33:1) and the wider 1.85:1 aspect ratio selected for the many Hollywood movies. Big-budget Hollywood blockbusters, though, are usually filmed in the much wider 2.35:1 or 2.39:1 aspect ratios. VIZIO's new Cinemawide HDTVs accommodate these "CinemaScope" or "anamorphic" aspect ratios well with a 2.37:1 (21:9) aspect ratio. So you'll be able to watch classics and today's best movies in the film's original aspect ratio and without black bars.

Cinemawide HDTV also takes VIZIO Internet Apps to the next level, making its use more seamless than ever. While watching a pixel-perfect 16:9 full HD image, full size and in the correct aspect ratio on the right side of the screen, users can simultaneously browse and use VIZIO Internet Apps on the left side of the screen -- with both images presented with no compromise in resolution or size.

"Connected TVs are expected to account for 20% of Global TV Shipments in 2011, rising to 122 million units globally by 2014**, representing one of the most exciting areas of growth in the TV industry and ultra-wide aspect ratio TVs, such as 21:9, and will enable consumers to view their TV content and Internet content simultaneously without overlap," stated Gagnon.

Here are details on VIZIO's exciting Theater 3D Series of HDTVs, with scheduled release dates and pricing.


*Sources: Q3 2010 iSuppli and DisplaySearch Reports

**Report source: DisplaySearch Quarterly TV Design and Feature Report

***Depth without stand


VIZIO's First Tablet Launches the VIZIO Internet Apps Plus Ecosystem, Maximizing Your Entertainment Experience with Great Picture and Sound for the Ultimate in Gaming, Video, Chat, and Value

- VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus ("V.I.A. Plus") ecosystem delivers a unified and intuitive user experience across multiple devices, including HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets and more

IRVINE, Calif. and NEW YORK, June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- (CEA Line Shows) -- VIZIO, America's #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today the upcoming release of its VIZIO Tablet, the first in the VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus ("V.I.A. Plus") ecosystem. This next generation of VIZIO Internet Apps brings a unified, sophisticated and intuitive user experience across a wide range of CE devices that will include VIZIO HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets, smartphones and more. The first product to ship will be the VIZIO VTAB1008 VIZIO 8" Tablet with WiFi, arriving this summer to retail stores nationwide. Each VIZIO V.I.A. Plus product features a VIZIO-designed user interface that is not only intuitive but also consistent across screens, for superior ease-of-use for the casual, non-technical user. Built on the Android™ platform, users have the ability to access more than 400,000+ apps in the Android Market™.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110622/LA24274)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090204/LA66605LOGO)

Other VIZIO V.I.A. Plus products will include the XVT 6 series 47" XVT3D476SV and 55" XVT3D556SV Theater 3D HDTV's, which deliver exceptional 3D picture quality thanks to VIZIO Theater 3D and Full Array TruLED™ technology, as well as Blu-ray players and the VIZIO Phone, its first smartphone.

The VIZIO V.I.A. Plus ecosystem represents the evolution of VIZIO Internet Apps®. This world-class connected ecosystem combines the latest technologies with a unified user interface to provide the very best HD entertainment experience – anywhere.

VIZIO V.I.A. Plus HDTVs and Blu-ray players will come with a premium Bluetooth touchpad universal remote with keyboard for full web browsing and search capabilities. With built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi, connecting the TV or Blu-ray player to the Internet is a snap. On the VIZIO Tablet, users can also take full control of their home theater with the Tablet's universal remote control app and built-in IR blaster, which has codes for up to 95% of the remote controllable CE devices in the U.S.

"With the introduction of the VIZIO V.I.A. Plus ecosystem, VIZIO is bringing a new level of cohesiveness to the HD entertainment experience, beyond what conventional CE devices have been able to deliver in the past," said Matthew McRae, VIZIO Chief Technology Officer. "Understanding that today's user touches multiple devices in the course of their daily routines, we feel it's important that the next generation of CE devices office a seamless user experience across all screens, from the living room to their handhelds. VIZIO V.I.A. Plus combines that common interface with today's best innovative technologies for a connected experience that delivers on our promise of Entertainment Freedom for All."

Just in time for summer fun, the VIZIO VTAB1008 8" Tablet with WiFi features a 1 GHz processor, an 8" high-resolution 1024x768 capacitive touch screen, built-in GPS and both 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The extended battery lasts up to 10 hours depending on usage. Its 2 GB of onboard storage can be easily extended with the addition of a microSD card, up to a maximum of 32 GB, for flexible storage at a fraction of the cost of other popular tablets. HD video playback is also available through its micro HDMI output, and its front-facing camera is ideal for video chats.

A Sound Approach for a Complete Entertainment Experience

A unique three-speaker design ensures users enjoy stereo audio in both portrait and landscape modes. Includes SRS TruMedia™ technology, which optimizes the audio experience on mobile devices, for enhanced audio playback and rich, natural voice communication.

VIZIO 3D Smart TVs with Full Array TruLED Picture Quality

VIZIO Internet Apps Plus also makes its entry in the emerging smart TV category with the new XVT3D476 and XVT3D556 Theater 3D HDTVs, VIZIO's most advanced connected HDTVs yet. Their universal IR/Bluetooth remote with touchpad allow for easy web browsing, and also includes an integrated QWERTY keypad. With access to Android Market, users can find their favorite app from more than 400,000 apps currently available, and integrated Wi-Fi makes getting connected to the Internet quick and seamless.

VIZIO's revolutionary Theater 3D technology delivers a crystal-clear, flicker-free 3D that's up to two times brighter than current active-shutter 3DTVs, with significantly less crosstalk, a wider horizontal viewing angle and much less blurring with fast motion. Each set comes with 4 free pairs of lightweight, battery-free 3D glasses.

With VIZIO's most advanced display technologies, these sets feature exceptional picture quality that exceeds that of the highly acclaimed XVT3SV series of HDTVs. These technologies include a TruLED display with Full Array LED backlighting and Smart Dimming, as well as 240Hz SPS™ (scenes per second) refresh rate. VIZIO Smart Dimming controls the LED levels in 160 zones, including the ability to completely turn them off to achieve a full 100% black level for an extraordinary contrast ratio. Smooth Motion technology provides sharp, blur free images with less judder, even in fast action scenes.

These new XVT3D 6 series sets will ship later this year.

*Source: IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q2 2011 Market Tracker Report of Q1 2011 U.S. and North American LCD Market Share Shipments.


VIZIO Tops U.S. LCD HDTV Sales for Two Consecutive Quarters, Shipping Nearly 30% More LCD HDTVs Than the Closest Competitor

- VIZIO's 20.9% market share in Q1'11 is the highest any brand has posted in U.S. LCD shipments since 2008*

IRVINE, Calif., June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- VIZIO, America's #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today that it outperformed the industry as the number one shipper of LCD HDTVs in Q1 2011 for both North America and the U.S. with a market share of more than 20%*. Since bringing home several awards at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show, the brand has seen an increased demand for its newest technology, including Theater 3D™ , VIZIO Internet Apps® (V.I.A.) and Beyond TV wireless connected devices.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110622/LA24280)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090204/LA66605LOGO)

VIZIO saw significant sales increases in Theater 3D™ capable sets, which took home awards at this year's CES including CNET's "Best of CES" award for the television category and Popular Mechanics "Editor's Choice" award. With new Theater 3D models arriving in Q2 and Q3 of this year, this feature is expected to become one of the most demanded among new HDTV buyers. VIZIO also saw incredible sales in their award-winning XVT lineup with VIZIO Internet Apps® as well as Blu-ray players with wireless Internet apps and the nation's best-selling Sound Bar.

"Meeting VIZIO's brand promise of providing 'Entertainment Freedom For All' is the driving force behind all of our sales successes. The spread of our Theater 3D models now goes well beyond early adopters and has made 3D a feature that friends and family can finally enjoy watching together," stated Randy Waynick, Chief Sales Officer, VIZIO. "And it's not only Theater 3D TVs that are flying off the shelves, it's our connected TVs with VIZIO Internet Apps and our lineup of Sound Bars and Blu-ray players. Consumers want connectivity, energy efficiency, value, and the best technology -- VIZIO delivers on every single one of these."

VIZIO remains the leader in Sound Bar sales** with the best-selling VHT210 and VHT510 leading the way with 367% Y/Y growth. They also shipped more than 25,000 of their Dual Band HD Wireless Internet Routers in Q1***, signaling that America's demand for improved high-speed streaming and playback is strong.

"VIZIO is leading the way in bringing new technology to America. Their 120Hz TVs grew 64.3% Y/Y while the industry only grew 12.5%," stated Paul Gagnon, Director of North American TV Research at DisplaySearch.


"With consumers looking for the latest technologies such as LED and Internet connected HDTV, VIZIO models top our best sellers. VIZIO continues to offer the latest features at prices that allow buyers to step up to the next generation of entertainment without paying more," stated Tamaryn Pratt, Analyst at Quixel Research.

*Source: IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q2 2011 Market Tracker Report of Q1 2011.

** Source: CEA's MarketMetrics data

** Source: VIZIO, Inc.

**** Source: DisplaySearch Quarterly Advanced Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report