LG LCD HDTV CES 2010 Range Revealed: 3D-Ready Flagship Infinia LE9500
LG's CES 2010 LCD HDTV line-up may not be quite as technologically impressive as Toshiba's CELL-packing ZX900, but it certainly dwarfs it in terms of sheer number of models. The company have announced a full 39 different HDTVs, ranging from the entry-level LD350 which kicks off at a modest 19-inches, through to the Infinia LE9500 flagship with up to 55-inch panels, skinny 8.5mm bezels, Full HD 1080p, Skype videocalls (assuming you plug in a webcam), 3D-ready support and streaming media from Netflix, VUDU, YouTube, Napster and Yahoo! Widgets.
All of LG's LED models also support DLNA streaming via ethernet, and the company will also happily sell you a USB WiFI dongle so you can cut that network cord. LG's NetCast sets, meanwhile, will work with the company's Wireless Media Hub, capable of streaming 1080p up to 98 feet; again, you'll need to buy that separately.
The LE9500 also gets LG's "magic wand" remote, which responds to movement and gestures, and various models have USB ports for playing digital content from attached storage and PMPs. No pricing or availability for any of the sets at present.
Press Release:
LG ELECTRONICS REDEFINES HOME ENTERTAINMENT EXPECTATIONS WITH BROAD LINE OF STUNNING, SLIM LED AND LCD HDTVsNew LED Technology Combined with Local Dimming Enhances Picture Quality, Black Levels and Utilizes Less Power
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2010 – (Virtual Press Office) – INFINIA, an innovative new family of LED LCD HDTVs from LG Electronics that delivers "freedom through infinite possibilities," highlights the company's 2010 lineup of LED LCD HDTVs introduced here today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205).
LG INFINIA HDTVs (the LE9500, LE8500 and LE7500 series) combine a slim design and thin bezel with enhanced connectivity and abundant content options. Leading the way to the ultimate home entertainment experience, the 55- and 47-inch class* LE9500 sets will be LG's first 3D-ready models available in the United States.
INFINIA is the flagship of LG's 41-model LED LCD HDTV line – six new series of LED LCD HDTVs and five new series of LCD HDTVs. Leading these introductions are two new LED technologies – Full LED Slim and LED Plus – that provide cutting-edge picture quality. The unique backlight structure on its Full LED Slim models (LE9500 and LE8500) allows for the INFINIA line's ultra-slim depth without sacrificing picture quality. Together, these features provide consumers with infinite possibilities in home entertainment.
"We're removing barriers to entertainment with very slim LED LCD TVs that couple wireless connectivity with the most access to online content," said Peter Reiner, senior vice president, marketing, LG Electronics USA. "With seamless connectivity and limitless content, LG INFINIA is resetting the standards for design and entertainment as LED LCD TVs are expected to grow to more than 20 percent of the market this year."
"Consumers will no longer have to compromise on picture quality in order to enjoy an ultra-slim design. Together this new Full LED Slim technology and our wireless connectivity options allow consumers to 'live borderless' with the ultimate in content access and convenient installation," Reiner added.
LG's new Full LED Slim technology elevates picture quality with a slim LED structure that supports detailed local dimming of up to 240 addressable segments (on the 55-inch class LE9500), resulting in an HDTV that provides the deeper black levels and uniform picture quality which typically could not be achieved on an ultra-thin set.
The LE9500 series cabinet depth is only .92 inches with a bezel width of only 8.5mm. LG's LED Plus technology (available on the LE7500 and LE5500 series), also improves picture quality and energy efficiency by adding a basic local dimming capability of up to 16 addressable segments.
The LE9500, LE8500 and LE7500 were all recognized with CES 2010 Innovations Awards, including the "Best of Innovations" distinction in the Online Audio/Video Content category for the LE9500.
Shattering Expectations
Broadening consumer entertainment options, LG's latest series of HDTVs affords consumers superior picture quality, advanced energy saving options and flexible access to content-on-demand. LG's LED LCD HDTVs challenge consumers' current perceptions of home entertainment by illustrating what's possible with superior display technology.
LG's Full LED Slim series (models LE9500 and LE8500) for example, join an elite group of LED LCD HDTVs that have achieved THX Display Certification* – the industry standard for having the correct gamma, luminance, and color temperature. This certification demonstrates that select series of LG HDTVs can recreate the cinema experience at home, making the picture resemble movie theatre quality. To date, LG is the only manufacturer who has attained this designation for LCD TV in the U.S. market. LG is also the first manufacturer to include the "THX Bright Room" setting on its LED LCD HDTVs. This new feature to the THX certification program optimizes the contrast, gamma and other settings for watching movies in rooms with a lot of ambient light.
LG's exclusive Full LED Slim technology includes detailed local dimming capability, but also enables the LE9500 and LE8500 to achieve a slim depth usually limited to conventional edge-lit models. This unique technology makes it possible for these two models to achieve the picture quality worthy of THX Display Certification and helps minimize the front bezel of the TV. This works with the single, edge-to-edge panel of glass to create a design, perfect for any home environment. Boasting a thin bezel of only 8.5mm, the LE9500 brings advanced technology into the home without being obtrusive. Available in 55-and 47-inch class sizes*, this series also incorporates TruMotion 480Hz for reduced motion blur during fast moving action sequences.
Connectivity
LG's full line of LED LCD HDTVs ― series LE9500, LE8500, LE7500, LE5500 and LE5400 (in screen sizes 32-inch class and above) ― boast a connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options, including NetCast Entertainment Access™. With NetCast, consumers can access the following content sites for an almost endless array of entertainment options**:
• Skype™: Newly added in 2010, this allows consumers to make free video and voice calls over the Internet to family members and friends (separate camera and other equipment needed).
• Netflix™: Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can stream thousands of movies without a PC.
• VUDU™: Allows consumers to instantly buy or rent from an extensive library of movies and TV titles, including a catalog of more than 3,000 high-definition movies – with no monthly fees or additional hardware.
• YouTube™: Offers the ability to instantly stream millions of Web videos directly from the Internet (without a personal computer).
• Napster™: Now Napster subscribers can enjoy unlimited on-demand streaming music from millions of songs on their NetCast TV.
• Yahoo! Widgets™: Enables access to various applications called TV Widgets that allow viewers to interact with popular Internet services and online media through applications specifically tailored to the needs of the watcher, such as up-to-the minute Yahoo! News, Weather and Finance, and new widgets, including CBS, Showtime and CNBC.
LG also has incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology across the full line of LED models. DLNA allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.
Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all NetCast-enabled sets can integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (sold separately). All models with NetCast also support multi-media playback from a connected USB device including photos (JPEG), music (MP3) and video (DivX HD).
For greater convenience and flexibility in setup and installation, all HDTV series with NetCast also offer wireless Full HD 1080p wireless transmission from a "Wireless Media Hub" from up to 98 feet. Connecting source components, such as Blu-ray players, cable or satellite boxes and video games to the media hub enables transmission to a compact receiver adaptor, which attaches to the back of the TV, hidden from view. This eliminates the need for individual components to be connected directly to the TV, making for a clean and easy installation and removal of the unsightly wires (Media Hub and receiver adaptor sold separately as a package).
Controls
LG's LE9500 incorporates a unique "Magic Wand" remote system that provides an immersive interaction with the set. This "Magic" user interface brings together menus, component controls and even embedded games, which can be accessed using a simple remote that combines minimal buttons and gestures to control the on-screen activity, mirroring a "Wii-like" experience.
Energy Savings
Understanding consumers' desire for products that reduce their household energy costs, most of LG's LED and CCFL HDTVs have a variety of energy-saving features, such as Intelligent Sensor, to automatically calibrate and optimize brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the ambient light in the room, saving on energy output under most circumstances. Additionally, ISFccc calibration options allow consumers to work with a professional to set "day" and "night" levels for optimal viewing and brightness levels. All of LG's 2010 LED LCD series also qualify for ENERGY STAR® 4.0 certification.
In total, LG unveiled six new series of LED LCD HDTV models for consumers – creating a robust HDTV line up of advanced picture quality, wireless technology and diverse screen sizes. Full details on the series are below:
INFINIA LE9500 Series (47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p HDTV features uni-layer design with ultra-slim (8.5MM) bezel, Full LED Slim technology with Local Dimming, TruMotion 480Hz and THX Display Certification. Also includes NetCast Entertainment Access, DLNA, wireless broadband ready capabilities, wireless HD ready and 2 USB ports.
INFINIA LE8500 Series (47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Includes all the same features of the LE9500 with the exception of the 3D capability, 8.5mm bezel and the Magic Wand remote control. It also features TruMotion 240Hz technology.
INFINIA LE7500 Series (42-, 47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Provides consumers with a Full HD 1080p experience, TruMotion 120Hz, and LED Plus technology for local dimming capability. With NetCast Entertainment Access, Wireless HD Technology content is easier to access than ever before without the fuss of too many cords.
LE5500 Series (22-, 26-, 42-, 47-, 55-inch class sizes*) – Includes TruMotion 120Hz, LED Plus Technology, and NetCast Entertainment Access. (Except 22- and 26-inch class sizes)
LE5400 Series (32-, 42-, 47, 55, 60-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p HDTV series includes LED lighting, TruMotion 120Hz, NetCast Entertainment Access, Wi-Fi ready and two USB ports.
LE5300 Series (19-, 22-, 26-, 32-, 37-inch class sizes*) – Brings the slim profile of LED technology to smaller screen sizes. Thirty-two and 37-inch class sizes are Full HD 1080p and feature TruMotion 120Hz technology, while the 19-, 22- and 26-inch class sizes provide a 720p HD picture.
Broad LCD HDTV Lines
Expanding its line of LCD HDTV options, LG also introduced five new series of CCFL LCD HDTVs, which bring consumers a variety of technology, design, and energy-saving options. These series include:
LD650 Series (47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – A Full HD 1080p HDTV, this LCD HDTV series boasts TruMotion 240Hz performance for reduced motion blur. Other features include: NetCast Entertainment Access, USB Video DLNA, and Wireless-ready technology.
LD550 Series (32-, 42-, 46-, 52-, and 60-inch class sizes*) – Also a Full HD 1080p series, these HDTVs are equipped with TruMotion 120Hz. Other features include: NetCast Entertainment Access, USB Video, DLNA, and Wireless-ready technology.
LD520 Series (32-, 42-, 47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – Combines Full HD 1080p with TruMotion 120Hz performance with a variety of screen sizes.
LD450 Series (32-, 37-, 42-, 47-inch class sizes*) – A Full HD 1080p HDTV in a variety of sizes to fit almost any room in the home.
LD350 Series (19-, 22-, 26-, and 32-inch class sizes*) – Provides smaller screen sizes for consumers in a 720p HD model.
With class sizes ranging from 19- to 60-inches, LG's LCD HDTV models provide a variety of flat panel options for any room in the home ― most built with LG's four core technologies:
• Picture Wizard: Provides consumers with an easy-to-use seven-step calibration process that allows them to change picture settings without hiring an expert.
• Intelligent Sensor: Automatically calibrates and optimizes brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the brightness and color temperature of lighting in the room – thereby saving on energy output in most circumstances. (Excluding LD350 and LD450 series and the 19, 22, 26-inch class LE5300 models)
• Clear Voice II: An enhancement to Clear Voice, this feature customizes volume settings by 12 distinct voice zoom levels without diminishing other surrounding sounds, helping ensure consumers don't miss a single line of dialogue during action sequences.
• AV Mode II: Includes three AV modes preset to optimize picture and sound settings based on Cinema, Sports or Game content, which can be easily set with the remote control.
For more information and product images, please visit LG's online press kit at http://www.lgusa.com/cespressroom.
About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. For more information, please visit http://www.LGusa.com.
About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2008 global sales of $44.7 billion, LG comprises of five business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is one of the world's leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both A Global Partner of Formula 1™ and A Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit http://www.lge.com.
**Internet connection and subscriptions required and sold separately.
*55LE9500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE9500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*55LE8500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE8500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*55LE7500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE7500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE7500 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*55LE5500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE5500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE5500 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*60LE5400 60-inch class/59.5-inch diagonal
*55LE5400 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE5400 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE5400 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LE5400 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*37LE5300 37-inch class/37.0-inch diagonal
*32LE5300 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*26LE5300 26-inch class/26.0-inch diagonal
*22LE5300 22-inch class/21.6-inch diagonal
*19LE5300 19-inch class/18.5-inch diagonal
*55LD650 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LD650 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*60LD550 60-inch class/59.5-inch diagonal
*52LD550 52-inch class/52.0-inch diagonal
*46LD550 46-inch class/45.9-inch diagonal
*42LD550 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LD550 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*55LD520 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LD520 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LD520 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LD520 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*47LD540 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LD540 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*37LD540 37-inch class/37.0-inch diagonal
*32LD540 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*32LD350 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*26LD350 26-inch class/26.0-inch diagonal
*22LD350 22-inch class/21.6-inch diagonal
*19LD350 19-inch class/18.5-inch diagonal
* Specifications subject to change without notice.
* THX certification is pending final testing and approval by THX Ltd.