LG has announced a range of new ’NanoCell’ LCD models. The 75-inch SM99 model is LG’s first 8K LCD model. Several 4K models also include HDMI 2.1 and full array local dimming.

LG 8K and 4K LCD
LG has announced an expansive line-up of new LCD models but only a few of them were detailed in the initial press release. LG will be introducing its 2019 high-end LCD TVs under a ’NanoCell’ moniker. The TVs are based on IPS LCD panels with a nano cell enhancement layer.

The 75-inch SM99 will be LG’s first 8K LCD model. It comes with ’FALD Pro’, which is short for full array local dimming - in other words LED dimming zones. This model is also equipped with LG’s most advanced second generation Alpha 9 video processor. In addition, it offers HDMI 2.1 with higher video bandwidth.

Stepping down into 4K, LG has several different models. The SM90 offers many of the same features as the flagship SM99, including HDMI 2.1 (with up to 4K120 inputs) and full array local dimming. The video processor is a second generation Alpha 7. It will be available in 49, 55, 65, 75, and 86-inch sizes.

LG’s SM8x (SM86, SM85, SM82) are also part of the ’NanoCell’ line-up. However, these TVs will not be equipped with the FALD system. SM85 and up will feature support for Dolby Atmos and WiSA wireless audio.



High-end ’NanoCell’ & mid-range UM
The company explained that its ’NanoCell’ marketing term covers ’NanoColor’, which means wide color gamut, and ’NanoAccuracy’ that is meant to emphasize the wide viewing angles that IPS LCD panels offer as opposed to VA LCD panels found in many competitors’ TVs. VA LCD offers other advantages.

While LG has received high praise for its OLED TVs in recent years, the company's LCD models have been less popular with discerning users that have generally preferred models from Samsung, Sony, and others. Perhaps this year’s zone dimming models will shake things up. FlatpanelsHD will get a chance to see some of the new TVs in action next week at CES.

The 2019 mid-range LG TVs will be called UMxx (UM76, UM75, UM74, UM73 etc.). These models come equipped with 4K LCD panels and will be available in sizes up to 86 inches. There is no longer support for Dolby Atmos and WiSA, and none of these UMxx models come equipped with HDMI 2.1.

LG will also offer a few Full HD models (LM63, LM55, LK51) in some markets.

All models from LM63 and up are part of the Korean company’s ”ThinQ AI” push. This includes webOS and Google Assistant as well as Amazon Alexa starting in 2019. Many models will include ”adaptive sound control” that can enhance audio based on the type of content. High-end models will include a similar feature for video settings.

The LCD models will be available in sizes from 32 to 86 inches starting in April. More details along with pricing will be announced later.