Samsung did not share much information on their 2012 TVs during CES but FlatpanelsHD can now reveal the entire 2012 TV line-up. Later this year, Samsung will launch their 55” OLED-TV that will take display technology to the next level. Before that, Samsung plans to release a range of new LED models such as the ES8000, as well as new plasma TVs. In 2012, Samsung hopes to make a splash with Smart TVs with voice and gesture control.
Samsung will introduce TVs based on three different display technologies in 2012; LCD (LED), plasma and OLED. The latter is expected to set new standards for picture quality when Samsung introduces their 55” model in the second half of 2012. Samsung will also introduce a range of new LED models that are extremely slim, with minimalistic design, such as the new ES8000 TV.
Samsung’s new ES8000 LED flagship
In 2012, it is all about Smart TVs. With an updated user interface that is significantly faster, Samsung hopes to improve the user experience. A new addition is the Fitness app that helps user get in shape with programs, statistics and more. The Fitness app also connects to the built-in camera. The Kids app has stuff for the little ones and the Family Story section will access Samsung’s new Cloud service that can store family photos.
Samsung’s 2012 TV line-up
A new addition to Samsung’s Smart TVs is the Smart Interaction suite. With a small camera and a microphone, built into the TV bezel, users can now control their Samsung TV with voice commands or hand gestures. You can turn on the TV by saying “Hi TV” or change the channel by saying “Channel 4”. You can also turn off the TV from anywhere, as long as your voice is recognized. With hand gestures you can also control the cursor on the TV screen while browsing for example web sites. See how the Smart Interaction suite works in the video below.
Another new Smart TV addition is the Evolution Kit. The Evolution Kit is a small plug-in module that will enable users to update their Smart TVs from 2013 through 2016, with new Smart TV functions. Samsung states that not all features will be included but most will. The first Evolution Kit will be released in 2013 with the 2013 TV line-up.
Samsung’s 2012 TV line-up
Samsung also highlight the new AllShare Play function. With AllShare Play users can “push” video, music and photos from handheld Samsung smart devices onto the TV screen. AllShare Play will also give access to Samsung’s new Cloud service that can store for example photos. All Samsung users will get 5 GB free space in the “cloud” when buying a Samsung “smart” product.
When it comes to picture quality, Samsung mentions the Micro Dimming and Micro Dimming Ultimate systems that will improve contrast on the LED models. The flagship plasma TVs have a new Real Black Pro filter for improved black depth, and later this year Samsung’s 55-inch OLED-TV will take picture quality to the next level. The OLED technology offers much faster response time, close to perfect viewing angles and perfect black depth.
Samsung’s 2012 TV line-up
3D is still found in most of Samsung’s new TVs – especially the plasma TVs – but it is not a key selling point for Samsung in 2012. All TVs with 3D functionality also incorporate a 2D-to-3D converter.
Samsung’s new Touch remote
A new touch remote will help users control the advanced Smart TV offerings. Samsung has aimed for a simple metal design with only the most essential buttons. A microphone that accepts voice commands is also built in and in the center of the remote you can see the touch-enabled surface.
The flagship models come with a built-in camera but a separate Skype camera can be bought for the rest of the TVs
Lastly, Samsung mentions a few new accessory products. 3D glasses will come in different variants and Samsung will still offer the ultra slim wall mounting solutions as well as a new floor stand. A Skype camera can add video calling capabilities to the TVs without built-in cameras and a new wireless keyboard can connect to any of the Smart TVs.
Samsung OLED-TV
In the second half of 2012, Samsung plans to release their first OLED-TV in 55 inches. With the OLED technology, Samsung can create TVs with stunning picture quality, extremely slim designs and very low power consumption.
Samsung’s 55-inch OLED-TV, the final design can vary
Super OLED technology
RGB OLED pixels
Extremely slim design
Smart TV
Smart Interaction
Dual-core processor
3D
Weighs just 12 kg.
7,6 mm thick (panel is 1,6 mm)
USA and Europe: Samsung’s OLED-TV will be available in 55 inches in the fall of 2012 called KN55ES9000.
Samsung ES8000 LED
The flagship LED model will be the ES8000. The ES8000 TV incorporates all of Samsung’s Smart TV functions, including the Smart Interaction suite with voice and gesture control.
Samsung ES8000
Samsung ES8000 also offers an extremely slim bezel-design, dual-core processor, 3D, and the Smart Evolution Kit that enables you to update your TV from 2013 through 2016.
Samsung’s 7 series is the step down from ES8000 and comes without the new distinctive stand. Micro Dimming Ultimate is also replaced with Micro Dimming Pro but besides that the two TVs are identical.
Samsung's 2012 TV line-up - with prices">
