Various large-panel displays will appear over the course of the year (2012)

Apr 2, 2012 06:26 GMT  ·  By

Panasonic and Sony both make displays of all types, more or less, but they are currently paying special attention to the market of TVs, especially large ones.

Already the Full HD image quality is basically standard on TVs, just like on monitors, and brightness, contrast and energy efficiency are none too shabby either.

That means that the only high-end feature left to add to the mix is support for 3D images.

According to Nho Seok-ho, head of LG Electronics’ LCD TV division, as reported by The Korea Times, Sony and Panasonic are determined to go forward with the technology.

As such, they will expand their 3DTV lineups this year (2012) by using LG's 3D technology.

“Panasonic and Sony are planning to expand the lineup of 3D-enabled TVs this year. The key point is that their upcoming models will use LG’s technology,” said Nho Seok-ho, head of LG Electronics’ LCD TV division in an interview. “That’s why we are sure to increase sales of 3D TVs this year.”

LG's Film Pattern Retarder (FPR) 3D technology is said to have an edge over Samsung's Active Shutter in that it is more affordable and energy-efficient.

There is still the issue of image quality though. Few official words were said on whether one is better than the other, but looking closely enough will show that Sony has avoided mentioning when it used film-patterned 3D in 32-inch and 42-inch sets.

Then again, Panasonic has been relying on LG quite a bit, so there are points in favor of both panel types.

“The fact that more 3D TVs from Panasonic and Sony will be equipped with LG technology is significant as Japanese TV makers account for over 30 percent of the global 3D TV demand,” Nho said.

On a related note, the competition between LG and Samsung extends beyond the realm of 3D. After all, Samsung is nearing the introduction of its OLED TVs, while LG has cost-effective white OLED in the pipeline. Tensions don't seem to be all that high on this front though.

“We really don’t care about the time to come to market. If Samsung introduces an OLED TV first, then that’s fine with us as LG is positive about beating it with the cost-effective white OLED technology,” said Nho.

“The global demand for LCD TVs will rise between 7 to 8 percent this year, which is higher than last year but not that substantial. LG will save costs by diversifying procurement channels.”