Touch of Color
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Samsung's new monitors include one with a billion-color, 3,840 x 2,160 screen
Now that Samsung's shown us the GS5, Gear 2 smartwatch and its latest Chromebook, it's time for the company's lesser-known product teams to come out of the woodwork. Next up: the display division, which today introduced three new models for 2014, including one with a billion-color, 3,840 x 2,160 screen. That would be the beaut you see above, the 28-inch UD590, which is up for pre-order for $700. In addition to that stunner of a display, it does Picture-in-Picture, with no downgrading in resolution as you move to a smaller frame. There's also a dual-screen feature called Picture-by-Picture, which you could theoretically use for split-screen gaming, even though this was really designed with creative pros in mind. Design-wise, it's fashioned out of metal, with thin bezels and a T-shaped stand that leaves room for speakers and other items you might have on your desk. Around back, you'll find a single DisplayPort, along with two HDMI 1.4 sockets for outputting 4K.
Samsung's new 9 Series LED-backlit 3D monitor goes for asymmetric beauty with a Touch of Color
We might already be here at CES in Las Vegas, but that isn't stopping Samsung from doing some very last minute teasing. The Korean maker of everything electronic has released a few teaser images for its new flagship 9 Series LED-backlit 3DTV monitor. This new panel features a striking asymmetric design, with the stand offset to the far right, and a metallic construction accented with a (hopefully tasteful) Touch of Color. No further details or specs are available as of yet, but mysteries like that don't tend to hang around for too long in this city and at this time of the year. Update: Samsung's English-speaking PR got in touch with us to say that this is actually a monitor, not an HDTV.
Samsung P2770FH dips down to 1ms response time, costs $400
Electronics manufacturers love to claim their product is entirely without precedent, but this 27-inch Samsung monitor has good reason to crow about its (relative) uniqueness. It's the first the second LCD to tout a blink-and-you'll-miss-it 1ms response time, halving the previous best in this category of 2ms. It's dubious whether you'll notice the difference in casual use, but that growing class of professional gamers will probably appreciate the extra, barely perceivable, responsiveness. Then again, those same pros might be slightly put off by the lack of stand adjustment and Samsung's Touch of Color enclosure -- neither seem to fit in with the performance-oriented panel within. The spec sheet is filled out with standard fare such as 1920 x 1080 resolution, 300 nits of brightness, HDMI input, and a 1,000:1 contrast ratio. Should that sound like your perfect recipe, you'll be able to pick up the Samsung P2770FH later this month for $400. Update: Viewsonic kindly reminded us that its own VX2739wm 27-inch panel beat this Sammy to market with a 1ms response time back in May.
Samsung pushes out BX2350 and BX2335 1080p monitors
We've always been fairly fond of Samsung's Touch of Color design scheme, so we're glad to see it's still firmly in place on the company's new "eco-friendly" LED displays. The outfit's debuting its 50 and 30 series panels today, with the BX2350 and BX2335 both offering a 2ms response time, 1080p resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio and a rather unique new feature called Magic Return. Put simply, this allows users working with two monitors to have their desktop automatically moved to a powered-on screen if one screen happens to shut down -- Sammy doesn't mention if both monitors have to be in this new series, but we suspect those details (along with price and availability dates) will seep out soon.
Samsung's R30 and R80 Touch of Color laptops now on sale
Plain they are not, and Samsung's Touch of Color laptops that were launched at the tail-end of CES this year have finally begun to ship. As of now, the Core 2 Duo-equipped R430, Core i3-packin' R480, and Core i5-based R580 / R780 are all on sale at Best Buy, with prices ranging from $629.99 to $829.99. The whole lot seems to be available for shipping or direct pickup, so give that source link a look to figure out which configuration fits you best. Or don't -- no pressure.
Samsung R430 / R540 laptops now partying stateside
That might pretty Touch of Color aesthetic Samsung's been rather fond of is popping up on the virtual US retail shelves by way of the 15.6-inch R530 laptop. Both it and the black 14-inch R430 are sporting a 2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 4GB RAM, 320GB HDD, and Intel's stock-in-trade GMA 4500MHD graphics. Interestingly enough, both are priced at $654, so 15.6 inches of screen space is just a tinge too big or you think ToC is a rather silly look, you're not being punished.
Samsung unveils SyncMasters with the 'world's highest' contrast ratio
We've harped about manufacturers constantly pushing nearly useless dynamic contrast numbers on us for so long that we half-expected this announcement to be about some phantom billion to one number. Well done Samsung, then, for focusing on the static (or real) contrast ratio of 3,000:1 on its sparkling new F2370H and F2380MX 23-inchers. These are certainly not the first panels to reach that plateau (check the Prad link below showing the Eizo EV2333 achieving 5,000:1 in testing), but let's not argue over PR semantics. They do boast higher contrast than most and both come with 1920 x 1080 resolution and HDMI inputs, while the more professionally oriented 2380 model (see our hands-on here) also boasts height and swivel adjustments along with an extra DVI port. Priced at 397,000 KRW ($350) and 417,000 KRW ($370), the two new SyncMasters are coming to Korea soon and the rest of the world seems an inevitability as well.
Samsung's camcorders and one big dummy camera at CES
Right after seeing the ultra-slim TVs we went to the other end of Samsung's CES booth for its camcorder lineup. As expected, we saw the previously-announced S series SSD models, the F series with 52x optical zoom and the stylish C series, but we also spotted what appears to be a refresh of the HMX-U10 camcorder brick. Admittedly, we were more interested in this dummy gigantic TL225 camera, and it wasn't even new. %Gallery-82132%
Samsung overhauls camcorder line, has something for everyone
Keeping up the torrent of digital imaging announcements, Samsung has now updated pretty much every cam in its range, and we've picked out the highlights for you: The C20, C24 and M20 are a trio of ultra-stylish handhelds, carrying on the C-series lineage, which regrettably means a scant 720 x 480 resolution to go with your Touch of Color. The less fashion-conscious M20 gets a CMOS sensor that stretches all the way up to 1920 x 1280/60p, while all three share Samsung's famed Active Angle Lens. The F40, F43 and F44 bring a super duper 52x optical zoom, but again record at a disappointing 720 x 480. Really Samsung? The H200, H203, H204, and H205 offer 1080/60i credentials and HDMI output, augmented by SSD choices (up to 32GB) on the higher models and 20x optical zoom. Optical image stabilization and a 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD make these appealing, particularly if you expand the internal storage with a few jumbo-sized SDHC cards. The S10, S15 and S16 collectively occupy Samsung's top tier, sporting a backside illuminated 10 megapixel CMOS sensor outputting 1080/60i video. Built-in SSD storage stretches up to 64GB, and there's also a 15x optical zoom, WiFi connectivity, and a 3.5-inch touchscreen running a 3D GUI. Most of these new shooters will be landing in February and March, with the S-series joining them later in the spring. Slide past the break for galleries of all the models and more info. %Gallery-81729%
Samsung TL210 and TL205 bring DualView to entry level shooters
Most manufacturers have yet to offer even one camera with a front-facing LCD, but that hasn't stopped Samsung from adding two more models to its growing range. Having started the DualView antics with its TL220 and 225 variants, Sammy is now augmenting the line with the TL205 and 210 which, in spite of their lower numbering, possess a feature the older cams do not. Using the new hardware, you'll be able to compose video as well as stills on the 1.5-inch front LCD, an added bit of functionality that should go over well with the target audience of party-loving hipsters. The TL210 also boasts optical image stabilization, a larger back-mounted display (3 inches versus 2.7), better optical zoom (5x versus 3x), and higher-res video recording (720p versus 640 x 480) than its junior sibling, though the two shooters share a 12MP CCD sensor. They do lose out on the haptic feedback touchscreens of their elder brethren, but that should make it easier for Samsung to price the new TL models aggressively when they're released in March this year. Then again, if you really want the cheapest of the cheap, you can grab one of Samsung's entirely unremarkable new SL600 or SL50 variants, whose PR blurb you can check out after the break together with more on the TL hardware. %Gallery-81303% %Gallery-81304%
Samsung ships $129 SPF-87H 8-inch digiframe / secondary monitor
Samsung's been dousing just about anything it can get its paws on with that 'Touch of Color' design scheme, and even the outfit's latest digiframe wasn't able to dodge the madness. The 8-inch SPF-87H, which was originally introduced to the world back in April, is now shipping to those scouting a multifaceted digital photo frame. Unlike traditional alternatives, this 0.91-inch thick frame can double as a secondary display (via USB), and the respectable 800 x 480 resolution panel ensures that you can fit more than just a weather widget on there. Other specs include 1GB of built-in storage, an SD expansion slot, 500:1 contrast ratio and a $129 price tag. [Via HotHardware]
Samsung intros drop-dead gorgeous SMX-C14 and SMX-C10 camcorders
We knew Samsung had a good thing going with the HMX-R10, and sure enough, that styling has rubbed off heavily on the company's newest pair. The SMX-C14 and SMX-C10 are both "ergonomic" camcorders which boast the company's Touch of Color finish and the practically iconic Active Angle Lens. Specs wise, we're told that they include a 10x optical zoomer, Hyper Image Stabilization (oxymoron much?) and a 230,000-dot, swiveling 2.7-inch wide LCD screen. Strangely (and inexcusably, really), Sammy failed to mention what resolution these capture at, so we could be looking at two 4K RED competitors or VGA shooters that can't even outdo those uninspiring offerings from DXG. At any rate, we're told that the C14 comes with 16GB of internal flash along with an SD / SDHC expansion slot, while the C10 gets by with just a slot. Finally, both units include one-touch YouTube uploads and just under three hours of life on a single charge; they'll splash down this July for undisclosed amounts.Update: Both shoot at 720 x 480/60i.
Samsung's 46 and 55-inch B9000 HDTVs boast widgets, wireless external media box
With no picture to show for it, unfortunately (that's the 8 series, pictured), Samsung's gone ahead and announced the 46-inch and 55-inch B9000 HDTVs, which looks to be a follow-up to the A950 models from last year. According to flatpanelshd, the latest addition to the Touch of Color series include LED backlights with localized dimming, Medi@2.0 with YouTube / Yahoo! widgets, built-in USB port, DLNA functionality, built-in DVB-T and DVB-C tuners, and most interesting, a wireless connection to an external media box that's reportedly similar to Sony's ZX1 -- no word on whether or not that means it's using WHDI. As for the other details, including pricing and availability, you're gonna have to keep waiting, we're afraid.
Samsung's 46 and 55-inch B9000 HDTVs boasts widgets, wireless external media box
With no picture to show for it, unfortunately (that's the 8 series, pictured), Samsung's gone ahead and announced the 46-inch and 55-inch B9000 HDTVs, which looks to be a follow-up to the A950 models from last year. According to flatpanelshd, the latest addition to the Touch of Color series include LED backlights with localized dimming, Medi@2.0 with YouTube / Yahoo! widgets, built-in USB port, DLNA functionality, built-in DVB-T and DVB-C tuners, and most interesting, a wireless connection to an external media box that's reportedly similar to Sony's ZX1 -- no word on whether or not that means it's using WHDI. As for the other details, including pricing and availability, you're gonna have to keep waiting, we're afraid.
Samsung's new SPF-87H and SPF-107H photo frames pull double duty as secondary displays
While second monitor status isn't a first for Samsung's picture frames, it's nice to see the functionality be extended to this latest lineup, the "Touch of Color" SPF-87H and SPF-107H. Otherwise the 8-inch and 10-inch frames are pretty basic on features for the most part, including 1GB of internal storage, an internal rechargeable battery and a multicard reader in a 0.9-inch thick form factor. The folks at Digital PictureFrame Review had no luck getting the SPF-85V to work as an external USB display last time around, so hopefully Samsung has tightened up its software in that regard -- though we're not expecting Mac support of such functionality in this century. At least the price is right: in Taiwan the 8-inch frame, which is available globally this month, will go for NT$3490 (about $103 US), while the 10-inch version goes for NT$5290 (about $157 US) and will hit stores in May.[Via Digital PictureFrame Review]
Samsung's 2009 HDTV lineup gets priced early
While Samsung should confirm / deny all of this on Tuesday, those who simply can't wait to crunch the numbers over the weekend while they're already hammering out the 2008 taxes need look no further. The HDGuru has discovered MSRPs from Samsung's absolutely gigantic 2009 line of LCD and plasma HDTVs, and he'll be adding more as they flow in. Hit the read link to get an idea of what you'll be forced to fork out when these ship out in the not-too-distant future, but don't blow that tax refund all in one place, okay Sonny Boy?
Samsung's LED-backlit P2370L LCD monitor looks good for $399
Comically enough, Samsung didn't even bother telling us the panel size of its P2370L, but we'll go out on a limb and assume it's 23-inches diagonally based on the cryptic model name. The latest member of Sammy's Touch of Color family sports a LED backlight, a depth of just 0.65-inches, 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, two-millisecond response time, DVI input, 1080p native resolution, a swivel stand and "Starlight" touch controls. If in fact we're looking at a 23-inch LED-backlit LCD for just $399, we'd say it's quite the bargain -- particularly when compared to Apple's 24-incher (which runs $899). Guess we'll find out when it ships later this quarter.[Via SlipperyBrick]
Samsung's Series 6 / 8 plasma HDTVs are well connected
We knew CES would deliver internet-lovin' HDTVs, but we had no idea Samsung would be bringing along so many. In case LCDs aren't really your bag, the company has also managed to bring along the Series 6 and Series 8 plasma sets. Both lines are hailed as the "greenest plasmas yet" thanks to their Energy Star 3.0 ratings, and they're also among the first TVs to be wireless DLNA-compliant. Both lines are obviously compatible with the Yahoo!-powered Internet@TV functionality, and the Series 8 checks in at just over an inch thick with an inbuilt ATSC tuner. Comically enough, Sammy doesn't even bother mentioning what sizes these things will arrive in (and definitely no price / release date), but it sure does stop to gloat about all this newfangled technology.%Gallery-40659%
Samsung's DVD-H1080 looks like a large pebble, plays DVDs
While Samsung's design may be changing in the Blu-ray player department, its latest DVD player pays homage to last year's DVD-F1080. The all new, very pebble-like DVD-H1080 touts the company's Touch of Color design, weighs just over two pounds and is only marginally bigger than the DVDs it will one day play. As expected, the deck features 1080p upscaling to go along with the USB host function which adds support for DivX, MP3 and JPEG files. There's nary a word on price, but it should be landing at your favorite (and least favorite, for the record) retailer in the first half of 2009.%Gallery-40652%
Samsung stuns with 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series LED LCD HDTVs
Here we are, folks, finally at the end of Samsung's CES 2009 gauntlet. We've seen Blu-ray decks, a BD-infused soundbar, LCD-equipped refrigerators and even a few HDTVs, but Sammy's clearly hoping you pay the most attention to its new line of LED-backlit LCDs. The 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series sets all ditch traditional CCFLs in favor of the newer, brighter and more energy-efficient LED backlighting. Of note, the 8000 Series is the only one a 240Hz refresh rate; the other lines get stuck with the perfectly acceptable 120Hz Auto Motion Plus. Furthermore, the 7000 / 8000 crew will come ready for the Yahoo!-driven Internet@TV online content service, while the 6000 family will allow access to Sammy's own InfoLink RSS service. More meaningful specs (screen size, brightness, contrast ratio, price, favorite color / date spot, etc.) are sorely missing, but you can peak the linked PDF if you don't believe us.%Gallery-40661%
