The Korean electronics maker LG has become one of the big players on a fast and changing market. In a recent note they have unveiled some of the new technologies to come in their 2009 line-up. First and foremost they aim to be number 2 on TV sales I 2009 – behind Samsung.

2008 has been a successful year for LG – especially because of the new plasma models launched in the PG design series. 2009 will be very interesting, too, and LG has announced that they will invest in both improved technology and build quality. LG will refrain from producing to the high-end segment, due to the short life-time of today’s TV models but they will continue to produce big screens while also investing in the medium-priced and affordable segments.

Focus on plasma 
In 2009 LG will focus even more on their plasma series, as they have had great success with the plasma technology in 2008. One of the extremely successful models has been the PG6000 with the very appealing glass all-in-one design – also the first plasma model in 32 inches.

The design is once again in focus as was the case in 2008. LG will throw the plastic materials out and bet on an exclusive design in glass and metal. 

LG already have the new improved plasma panels ready, and promises technical progress on several points. LG’s Nordic Product Manager Joakim Örnstig promises better blacks - allegedly around 0,08 cd/m2.


2008 model: LG PG6000

LG is also betting on external media boxes – just like Sony and Philips. Media boxes can be placed somewhere else on the Hi-Fi bench and serve as the center for external inputs. Everything is then transferred to the TV wirelessly or by a single cable solution. LG also mentions wireless systems based on Wireless HD standard. 

Advanced tools for proper calibration as well as test images will be featured in the menus. This will help the user to better adjust parameters such as colours, contrast, gamma etc. It’s not as effective as a professional calibration according to LG but it can improve the picture quality significantly.

Focus on LCD-TV, too
LG has also increased focus on their LCD TV range and 2009 will bring LCD-TVs with LED backlight systems to the table. LED backlights can improve response time, help eliminate backlight bleeding on the screen and reduce power consumption. According to LG, it will also result in better picture quality on their 2009 LCD TV models.


2008 model: LG6100

LG will also use a feature which we have seen in some of their 2009 ranges.  It is a small light sensor that automatically adjusts screen brightness according to ambient light in the room. In a dark room, brightness is reduced and in a bright room it is boosted. 

It seems that we can expect a lot of exciting new models from LG in 2009. We look forward to hearing more about the specific products that have not yet been presented. LG is expected to present the new 2009 series in January on the CES exhibition in Las Vegas.