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LG Display reveals that 42-inch OLED TVs are coming soon
LG Display, which builds the panels for LG’s OLED TVs, has revealed that it will build a 42-inch display for an OLED TV to be released this year.
Box pics, price and features leak out for the Best Buy Insignia cTV with TiVo
As we close in on the purported release date for Best Buy's Insignia cTV, more details have come to light about the TiVo menu system (but not DVR) powered HDTV. Zatz Not Funny reports the 32- and 42-inch models available initially will cost $599 and $999, respectively, with a pretty standard list of features including built-in 802.11n WiFi, 4 HDMI ports, etc. More interesting however are these box shots that reveal unannounced apps on the way including Chumby widgets -- destined to replace the late FrameChannel? -- as well as Twitter and Facebook, which were integrated via the iPad app but not the box, yet. So far we still don't know for sure if these TVs will be able to serve as multiroom extenders and stream video from a TiVo Premiere (whenever TiVo brings the feature back) but until there's some official word you can get more pictures and details at the source below.
Best Buy Insignia cTV with DVR-less TiVo built-in launches July 31st
Best Buy and TiVo announced they were forming a "broad partnership" two years ago, then revealed a connected HDTV product last year, and now it's apparently just days from being released. This information posted over at ZatzNotFunny pegs the launch date for the Insignia cTV as July 31st, packing the TiVo Premiere's menu system and apps like Netflix, CinemaNow and Pandora. The 32- and 42-inch models feature built-in WiFi, but no included DVR and don't require a TiVo subscription. With the recent launch of multiroom streaming on the TiVo Premiere and another DVR-less product from TiVo in the Preview, this is a perfect opportunity to include multiroom access, no set-top box needed. Unfortunately, like the pricetag of the cTV units, that detail has yet to be revealed.
Samsung preparing for 42-inch OLED TV trials in 2011?
It's approaching mid 2010 and you know what's missing. Jetpacks. Jetpacks and those 30-inch and larger OLED TVs we were promised. Hell, the largest OLED TV available for retail currently is only 15-inches... if you can both find and afford it. Now OLEDNet claims that Samsung Mobile Display -- you know, the cellphone AMOLED guys -- is purchasing equipment in preparation for bringing its 5.5 generation facility on-line in the first half of 2011. That should give Samsung the ability make 42-inch AMOLED TVs on a trial basis by the end of the twenty-eleven. But with relatively cheap LCDs steadily closing the gap on OLEDs size, contrast, and power savings advantages, well, we'll believe it when we see the first big screen OLED TVs in our living rooms. And with 3D LCDs (and plasmas) all the rage amongst distracted and financially-vested television manufacturers, we don't see that happening anytime soon.
StreamTV's 42- and 37-inch 3D TVs don't require glasses, do include Blu-ray, might not exist
Ever heard of StreamTV? Us neither. Yet there it is, a pair of entries just added today to Amazon.com. Most interesting is the 42-inch 3D TV that, like its 37-inch bro, includes a built-in 500GB HDD, Blu-ray player, and "full browsing capabilities using Entertainment Portal." Oh, and it doesn't require 3D glasses. Do you believe it? Take our advice and wait for a bit more info before entering your $5,999.99 pre-order. May 7th isn't too far away.
Panasonic G20 HDTV review shows plasma's still got it
If you needed more proof that rumors of plasma's demise were greatly exaggerated, just look at Panasonic's latest, the G20. FlatpanelsHD took a 42-inch model fresh out of Panny's massive new plant and ran it through a gamut of tests. The 1080p panel with its 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio blitzed all of them, delivering the infinite viewing angles, deep blacks, and rich colors that are the hallmark of charged gas, and doing so without the annoyance of active cooling fans. That said, the improvements here over the previous G10 series are said to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, with black levels about the same and network functionality little improved, meaning current owners don't need to feel too bad. But, if you don't mind waiting a little longer and paying for the latest and greatest, this looks to be it. [Thanks, John]
Philips Aurea reaches 3rd generation, demands more allowance
Aww, just look at him, Philips' Aurea TV's all growed up and showing off the latest in LED edge-lighting. This third generation set features the same transparent Active Frame now sporting 250 LEDs with a promise of "exact" Ambilight color matching" with what you see on the screen. The result, according to Philips and our own experience with Ambilight over the years, is a more immersive viewing experience -- or maybe the experience is just peculiar, we can never be too sure. The set still features the same, albeit tweaked, motion sensitive remote control and adds Net TV for quick access to content from YouTube, eBay, TomTom and more depending upon your location. As to the display, well, it's still 42-inches by the looks of things, with a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution, 100Hz refresh, and snappy 2-ms response as before. The box itself feature an integrated DVB-T/DVB-C/CI+ HDTV receiver, 5x HDMI 1.3a EasyLink inputs, WiFi, Ethernet, and a DLNA-compliant network link for accessing media off your PC. Coming soon, that's when.
LG's THX-certified LH90 LCD HDTVs now shipping in US
We've been following LG's 240Hz LH90 series of LED-backlit HDTVs since they were launched alongside oodles of internet-connected rivals at CES, and now -- at long last -- the 1080p trio is shipping to US soil. The sets, which are the first-ever to boast THX certification, also feature an ambient light sensor, 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 240Hz dejudder technology and a super glossy bezel. If you're jonesing to get one in your abode, you can cruise over to your nearest electronics dealer and part ways with $3,199.95 (55-inch), $2,399.95 (47-inch), or $1,899.95 (42-inch).
LG world's thinnest LCD is only 0.23 inches thick
Looks like we've got a new record holder for world's thinnest LCD, as LG pegs its new 42- and 47-inch models at only 5.9mm thick. Apparently lacking an iPhone for the accepted measurement of thinness, this model was reduced to holding up a coin for an example of LG's edge LED lit prowess. Though you may prefer local dimming LEDs, DisplayBlog is hopeful we'll see a combo of the two lighting schemes bringing thinness and high picture quality next year. Meanwhile, compare these to JVC's magnetically mounted former champ, measuring a now-widebody 7mm thick, but at only 5kg, still holding a weight edge over these two at 6.1 and 7.3kg, respectively. LG promises 120Hz refresh technology and 80% of the NTSC color gamut, up from 72% on standard models, on these, but we'll wait for them to go from the demo stand to the store shelf before revisiting the question of whether thinner and more energy efficient is actually better.[Via DisplayBlog]
Pantel PAN-420 outdoor LCD upgrades resolution
Got a need for an HDTV that can handle anything nature throws at it? Pantel's updated the 42-inch model of its waterproof outdoor line of LCDs, so the PAN-420 is now 1080p. The contrast ratio and other specs seem the same, but the extra pixels will cost you, with an MSRP of $4,999 so the real question is exactly how close will this be mounted to the hot tub / grill / Slip-n-slide to make the higher res worthwhile? Full PR is after the break.Update: While the PAN-420's current MSRP is higher than when it debuted a year ago, it had since been raised to the $4,999 mark, so all those extra pixels shouldn't cost you a penny more than the 720p version did yesterday.
LG's 240Hz LH90 LED TV series priced, global release dates still a mystery
LG's finally put a price on its TruMotion 240Hz LH90 series displays. Available in 42, 47, and 55-inch sizes, the LED TVs boast a whopping 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, THX support, and the ability to play DivX files via USB. If you need to start budgeting early, expect to pay somewhere around ₩3,300,000 (US $2,445) to ₩ 6,400,000 (US $4,742), depending on the model. We know it's destined for an international release, but other than that, unfortunately mum's the word when that date might be.
Ultmost Technology's 42-inch oval LCD on display
There's perilously scant detail to be had here, but this puppy -- a 42-inch LCD by Ultmost Technology --was on display at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair. Called the Fuss LC-4212B, we don't know anything about its specs, pricing, or availability... but we do know that it's pretty crazy looking, and we'd like to see a little more of it. One more shot after the break.
Panasonic's 42-inch TH-42PX80U VIERA plasma reviewed
If Panasonic's TH-46PZ85U was a bit too rich (or large) for your blood, the 42-inch TH-42PX80U could be the perfect compromise. Ringing up a fair bit cheaper and boasting a few less niceties, this plasma still managed to net a Very Good rating from the critics at CNET. Overall, the unit was said to be relatively inexpensive for what you get, and it managed to deliver deep blacks, a satisfactory port selection and a classic, attractive design. On the downside, the color accuracy seemed to be off, and the built-in noise reduction was fairly ineffective. Still, the unit was dubbed "a standout among HDTVs for the entry-level crowd," and so long as you don't go in expecting a Kuro, you're likely to walk away quite satisfied. Check out the full spill in the read link below.
Pioneer to stop making 42-inch plasmas
In a move that can only be interpreted as a win for LCD manufacturers, Pioneer is giving the axe to its 42-inch plasmas and instead will buy 'em from Panasonic. This eliminates one of our two favorite plasma manufactures and leaves Panasonic with less competition. This is of course the size that competes head to head with LCD more than any other size. We can understand where Pioneer is coming from on this one, as the 42-inch market is all about value and we've seen a few big named manufactures getting away from low margin HDTVs. Pioneer will however continue to focus on panels 50-inch and larger, so don't worry, our beloved Kuro line isn't going anywhere.
Lumin's MultiTouch display does... uh, multi-touch
If you've absolutely, positively got to have a multi-touch display system right this second, look no further than the Germany company Lumin and its creatively named MultiTouch. For an undisclosed price (available on request) you and your loved ones can be pawing all over the 42-inch, 1024 x 768 display, which is powered by a Mac Mini and can be coupled with Apple's wireless keyboard and mouse. The screen -- which is quite similar to the LG.Philips display we got our mitts on at CES -- is driven by Lumin's proprietary software, and allows you to do all Surface-esque manner of tricks, like zooming, rotating, and panning with various finger / hand combinations. The company also appears to be offering rear-projection, front-projection, and "shaped" screens, though none of those seem to be sporting touch capabilities. Check out the super-cool video after the break and see what's happening over there.[Thanks, Mike]
Norcent intros 42-inch LT-4231P 1080p LCD TV
As it seems to do every single year, Norcent is gearing up for CES with a swank new HDTV. For 2008, we're looking at the 42-inch LT-4231P, which offers up a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, a slew of ports including HDMI, component, S-Video, composite and VGA and a pair of 15-watt speakers to boot. Furthermore, you'll notice a 2,000:1 contrast ratio, 500 nits of brightness, 178-degree viewing angles, a trilingual on-screen menu, wall-mounting capability, 3D digital comb filter and a built-in tuner that handles NTSC, ATSC and Clear-QAM. Sadly, you'll have to wait until March to pick this one up, but at least it'll only run you $1,299.99 when that day comes.
Envision kicks out trio of Omni-series LCD HDTVs
Envision understands that the people need choices, and just in case neither of the two LCD HDTVs that the firm unleashed last month tickled your fancy, here comes a trio of new ones to pore over. All three units sport a 1,366 x 768 resolution, eight-millisecond response time, ATSC / Clear QAM tuners, integrated speakers, a headphone jack, S/PDIF port and a glossy black finish. On the high(er)-end, we've got the 42-inch L42W761, which features a 1,200:1 contrast ratio, twin HDMI inputs and a respectable $999 pricetag. The 32-inch L32W761 differs from its big bro by offering up a 1,500:1 contrast ratio, while the 26-inch L26W761 musters an 800:1 CR. These two will ring up at $649 and $479, respectively, and are available as we speak from a number of fine retailers, but if you've got your eye on the 42-incher, you'll be waiting till the 23rd -- yeah, Black Friday -- to take one home.
LG.Philips announce 0.78-inch ultra-slim 42-inch LCD -- available March!
LG.Philips just announced an "ultra-slim" 42-inch Full HD 120Hz panel for 2008. Not Q4 2008 either kids, we're talking sometime before March. So what can we expect after Sharp's 1.1-inch thin 52-inch panel and Hitachi's 0.74-inch 32-incher? Something in between right? Nope, 7.8-inches thick. Exactly, 19.8-mm or just 0.78-inches thin. According to LG.Philips, that makes it 40% thinner and 10% lighter than conventional LCD TVs which is pretty hot. It'll be CCFL backlit (not LED) though when it does hit -- that'll keep the cost down but won't do much for the contrast. The panel will be on display at FPD International in Yokohama next week where we hope to bring you a first look. Update: Oops, major metric conversion snafu -- good thing we're not in charge of the Mars space program. It's fracking thin![Via DigiTimes]
BenQ intros uber-sleek 1080p SH4241 LCD TV
It's been a tick since we've seen any swank LCDs come out of BenQ's doors, but we're quite pleased that the SH4241 seems to be a finely tuned piece that could prove worth the wait. Unfortunately, there's not too much dirt on this one just yet, but we do know that the 42-inch LCD HDTV will sport a piano black finish, black / red accents, bottom-mounted speakers, a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, and a mysterious assortment of ports that AV freaks and gamers will apparently drool over. No word just yet on price nor availability, but we'll be sure to keep an eye on this (admittedly attractive) set.[Via AkihabaraNews, image courtesy of DigiTimes]
ByD:sign's new low-cost XGA 42-inch plasma
If those 42 and 47-inch 1080p LCDs from ByD:sign we saw on Monday were just too much excitement for you, there's always this new PH-4201DFK to bring things back down to earth. The 42-inch plasma sports a mere 1,024 x 768 resolution, and while the 1,200 nit brightness and 10,000:1 contrast ratio actually sound fairly decent for the price (179,800 yen, $1,555 US), we're sure you'll manage to curb your enthusiasm somehow or other. The display can handle a 1080p signal over HDMI and includes optional stereo speakers along with a customary compliment of ports. You should be able to pick one up in Japan now.[Via Impress]
