Hitachi launches new ultrathin HDTV series in Japan

Hitachi's UT-series LCD TVs are back. Besides sporting a 35mm-thin bezel, the XP800 panels are versatile entertainment systems featuring an external media box which doubles as a 250GB digital video recorder. There's even an option to upgrade to a wireless version with an effective 9m operating range. Another unique feature is its video-sharing function which allows a recording to be shared among several TVs. This, when coupled with its DLNA-compatibility, extends the video-sharing pool to other devices such as home PCs.

As usual, we doubt Hitachi will be introducing these souped-up features in their 2009 models for outside of Japan. But if it does, you can be assured we'll update you with the exciting news.

Via Akihabara News

Sony addresses rumors on PS3's pricing

Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) has entered into a collaboration with Singapore's Nanyang Polytechnic. The game console manufacturer is supplying the education institute's new game resource center with PlayStation 3 (PS3) and PlayStation Portable software development kits. The center, which will be operational in June, is set up to train students and professionals in developing games, as well as proof-of-concepts (e.g. concept games, engines, etc.) on PlayStation platforms. Some of the software developed in-house may one day be used for commercial deployment pending assessment by SCE Asia.

On a separate note, we were also briefed during a media conference on Sony's plans for the PS3. According to Tetsuhiko Yasuda, president of SCE Asia and Hong Kong, the company has no intention to revise the console's pricing at the moment. He added that Sony is exploring new services for Asia to better harness the PS3 capabilities. If implemented, these will first be launched in Singapore, Korea and Hong Kong due to the countries' established infrastructure. Though the nature of these services was not elaborated on, we believe they may include movie streaming and music downloads.

Mitsubishi keeps DLP alive with 2009 models

Rear-projection HDTVs have been waning in popularity with the waxing of flat-panel plasmas and LCDs, but Mitsubishi's new lineup of DLP models proves that the technology will be available in stores for at least another year.

In 2008, Samsung and Mitsubishi were the only two companies selling rear-projection behemoths and, due to lack of demand, we only reviewed one model from each company: The Samsung HL61A750 and the Mitsubishi WD-65735.

The LED-powered Samsung was clearly better, but that company has not announced any new DLP models for 2009, although it will continue to sell its 2008 models. I asked Samsung's reps last week about the company's DLP plans but they refused to provide any information, and I have a hunch they won't announce any new models this year, or ever.


Read more »

Mitsubishi LCDs get 16 speakers apiece

Not to be outdone by LCD TV makers touting LED backlights, 240Hz refresh rates, and stratospheric prices, Mitsubishi brings its own twist to the game of HDTV step-up-oneupsmanship with its Unisen models, each of which sports a new 16-speaker audio system.

Nestled below the pursed lips of the simulated image above, you'll find 16 speakers, an array that even when turned off should impress visitors to your living room.


Read more »

LED-powered Toshiba Regza HDTV announced

Toshiba has just announced new Regza HDTVs for the Japan market. Among the 2009 entries is the ZX8000-series which looks most promising on paper. This model is exactly what Toshiba needs to get up to speed against the competition in Asia outside of Japan. The main party piece for the ZX8000 is its LED backlit full-HD panel. This propels the TV's dynamic contrast to an ultra-high 2 million:1 performance, complemented by a 120Hz (NTSC) frame rate-doubling engine for smoother onscreen motion.

Another unique feature is the onboard Dolby Volume function which automatically compensates loudness fluctuations between different programs. This should save you the unpleasant experience of a rude awakening by jarring sounds, especially when switching between TV channels and DVD playback. The Japanese Toshiba model will also feature DLNA networking function with built-in hard drive-based video-recording capability. The latter is an enticing proposition which we doubt will be available in the model lined up for Asia beyond Japanese shores.

We're in the process of verifying Toshiba's plans for the ZX8000s, so do check back soon for more updates.

Via Akihabara News

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