Panasonic predicts 3D rebirth for plasma TVs
By Adrian Weckler
3D technology will ‘‘breathe life’’ back into plasma televisions, according to Keith Evans, managing director of Panasonic in Ireland and Britain.
‘‘A lot of people wrote plasma off in recent years, but our new sets will show 3D in all of its glory,” Evans said. ‘‘The technology has a lot to offer in coming years.”
He was speaking as Panasonic launched a new 65-inch 3D plasma television with internet connectivity, video on demand and social networking applications.
Apart from the set’s 3D capability, the TV’s main technical innovation is a 50 millionto-1 contrast ratio, leading to very deep blacks.
3D, which requires special glasses to watch, is being pushed by television manufacturers and film studios as away of bringing average television prices up after several years of decline. According to industry statistics, only television sets above 50 inches returned a profit for big television manufacturers last year.
But so far, there has been little research to suggest that 3D television is a surefire hit with consumers.
‘‘People will take to 3D not because it’s simply the latest thing, but because it delivers an amazing picture,” said Evans.
‘‘We’re not talking about watching the news or Coronation Street, but for films and sport, it’s fantastic.”
Evans said that the biggest film studios are releasing 31 new 3D titles this year, most of which will likely be family or action blockbusters.
Sony and Philips have abandoned plasma technology in recent years, claiming that the technology has a weaker future than LCD and LED.
Only Panasonic and LG continue to invest heavily in the plasma, with Samsung having reduced its commitment to the format.
Despite this, a survey earlier this month by researchers at a Munich University found that plasma televisions cause less eye strain than an LCD at a similar brightness level.
Nevertheless, sales of plasma screens have shrunk over the last two years in Ireland. Industry statistics show plasma sets declining to under 5 per cent of the market, despite a surge in popularity of televisions over 40 inches in size.
Thirty-five Irish electronics and technology dealers were given demonstrations of Panasonic’s 2010 television and camera line-up in Munich last week. Other products launched included a 3D semi-professional camcorder and a 3D Blu-ray disc player.
