LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing its
history and tradition of producing award winning Plasma HDTVs,
Panasonic Corporation of North
America (NYSE: PC), the industry and technology leader in
High Definition Plasma televisions, introduced the company's 2012
Smart VIERA line of HDTV Plasmas defining the core of a new IPTV
lifestyle at the Consumer Electronics Show. The advent of Smart
VIERA HDTV centers on five main points: Networking, Easy Operation,
Picture Quality, Eco and Design elements. With 17 new models,
ranging in screen sizes from 42-inches to 65 inches, Panasonic
expanded its 3D line-up for 2012.
Also new for 2012 is a cloud-based architecture to increase the
VIERA Connect IPTV platform to an unlimited number of apps, thereby
cementing its reputation for creating innovative and cutting edge
products and focusing on providing the consumer with the ultimate
in home entertainment. New to select VIERA TVs is the inclusion of
a browser, further enhancing the internet platform, as well as the
addition of "3D Real Sound" with 8-Train Speakers to further
enhance sound quality. In addition, Panasonic continues its
commitment to the environment by improving the panel luminance
efficiency, as well as producing mercury and lead free panels. To
further improve the in-home 3D viewing experience, Panasonic
introduced its latest generation of lightweight 3D glasses.
Weighing only 27 grams, the latest generation 3D glasses utilize
Bluetooth technology and feature a rechargeable battery.
Panasonic is dedicated to bringing new picture improving
technologies to HDTVs and the 2012 line-up builds upon that
philosophy. The 2012 VIERA HDTVs produce black levels that have
consistently been recognized as among the best in the industry,
super fast response time, intuitive and therefore easy to operate
controls, an infinite number and variety of internet apps, a new
VIERA's, clean and simple design incorporating "Glass and Metal"
Design concept to express elegant and luxurious theme.
VIERA's elegant design gives it a simple yet powerful presence
by harmonizing materials and design. This new design maximizes the
natural qualities of glass and metal to visually express the superb
performance of the display and billions of colors. The 2012 models
employ NeoPlasma Black 2500 provide a crisp image even when the
content shows very fast motion. The 2012 panel further reduces
reflections and creates sharper pictures with higher contrast in
brighter environments. In addition, a new panel structure and
pre-discharge control technology contribute to an increased native
contrast level. Additionally, all the 3D models include DLNA
connections for easy link-up to other DLNA equipped products.
Panasonic's company wide commitment to sustainability and
producing products that are ecologically sound is evidenced in the
100,000 hour life span of the Plasma Display panel and the lack of
lead or mercury in the panels. Improved power efficiency has been
addressed with, among other technology advances, new and improved
phosphor mixtures and more efficient electronics.
"Panasonic is proud to be recognized by numerous critics for its
superior picture quality and for its continuing commitment to the
highest technology standards possible. Never ones to stand on our
laurels, the 2012 series of VIERA Plasma HDTVs fine tunes the 3D
picture quality to one that rivals what is seen in the theater.
Furthermore, we have expanded and enhanced the VIERA connect
internet functionality by employing cloud technology, enabling
users to access an infinite number of apps," said Henry Hauser, Vice President, Panasonic
Marketing, the Merchandising Group "Panasonic is continually
striving to surpass the previous year's commercial and critical
success, as well as listening to what consumers are saying. That is
precisely why Panasonic's 2012 Plasma models will once again prove
to be the industry leader. Panasonic is also very proud to have
been named one of the top ten global green brands of 2011."
The six VIERA Plasma series, VT50, GT50, ST50, UT50, XT50, U50,
feature self illuminating panels with ultimate black levels,
NeoPlasma technologies(VT/GT/ST) providing a black filter with a
higher efficiency panel that generates the best balance of black
and white under brighter environments. The new Louver filter and
new high performance panel result in improved external light
shading, improved clarity and improved light transmittance. The
2012 models employ the NeoPlasma Black 2500 (VT/GT/ST/UT), a
6,220,800 pixel cells FULL local dimming, 24,576 steps of gradation
technology (VT/GT) (previously only available in professional
monitors), a new custom driver LSI and a fast switching phosphor
panel on all of Panasonic's 1080p 3D models
Panasonic also continues its relationship with THX with six Full
HD 3D Plasma HDTVs, certified in both 2D and 3D mode by the
prestigious company founded by George
Lucas. THX certification indicates to the consumer
that the picture quality has been certified to meet the stringent
standards of Hollywood's top film
makers.
VT50 Series
The VT50 series is the FULL HD 3D Plasma flagship series and is
available in two screen sizes- the TC-P65VT50, 65-inch class (64.7
inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P55VT50, 55-inch class (55.1
inches measured diagonally). These two top of the line TVs offers a
revolutionary level of picture quality. FULL HD 3D; 1080p
FULL HD resolution; Infinite Black Ultra Panel, Deep Black hues are
achieved thanks to new and advanced pre-discharge technology; VIERA
Connect with Web browser, and built-in Wi-Fi; 2500 FFD (Focused
Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D --> 3D conversion;
24,576 steps of gradation technology ;THX in both 2D and 3D modes;
ISFccc Calibration Mode with Advanced Calibration. Calibrators
adjust the detailed picture setting with the calibration software
(CALMAN™)provided by SpectraCal Inc.
Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social
network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking
feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train
Speakers; a new Louver Filter; a VIERA Touch Pad Controller;
Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, a technology that utilizes HDMI-CEC
(Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a consumer to operate all
VIERA Link compatible A/V components using only the TV's remote
control; Media Player, allows one to view digital photos and HD
video recorded on a SD Memory Card and USB Memory Stick; four
HDMI connections and three USB ports. The VT50 series continues the
design evolution as seen in last year's VT30 series with a stunning
one sheet of glass design. The Flat and lustrous, this single pane
of glass is totally obstruction-free. It expresses a minimalist
sense of beauty by stripping away all unnecessary elements with a
newly designed gradation metal pedestal.
GT50 Series
The GT50 series includes four screen sizes – the TC-P50GT50,
50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55GT50,
55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60GT50,
60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P65GT50,
65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally). The series
features FULL HD 3D; Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with
Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD
(Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D -->
3D conversion; THX in both the 2D and 3D modes; 24,576 steps of
gradation technology; Social Networking TV function; Multitasking;
3D Real Sound with 8 train speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA;
VIERA Link; four HDMI connections and three USB ports. Additionally
the GT50 models incorporate the glass & metal design – Stylish
Metal Frame with a gradation metal pedestal.
ST50 Series
The TC-P50ST50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally);
the TC-P55ST50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally);
the TC-P60ST30, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally) and
the TC-P65ST50, 65 inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally)
comprise the ST 50 series of FULL HD 3D VIERA HDTVs. The ST30
models include Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web
browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD
(Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D --> 3D
conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with
8-Train Speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, three
HDMI connections and two USB ports.
UT50 Series
There are four screen sizes in the UT50 series – the TC-P42UT50,
42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally); TC-P50UT50, 50
inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55UT50, 55 inch
class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60UT50, 60 inch class
(60.1 inches measured diagonally). All offer FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL
HD resolution; VIERA Connect (Wi-Fi ready); 2500 FFD (Focused Field
Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D --> 3D conversion; Social
Networking TV function; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA
Link; two HDMI connections and two USB ports.
XT50 Series
The XT50 series provides the consumer with an affordable 3D
solution with Online Movies feature, a service that provides select
Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular
movies to the TV's internet functionality. The TC-P42XT50, 42 inch
class (41.6 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P50XT50, 50 inch
class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) produce 720p resolution and
features Online Movies, a service that provides select Panasonic's
IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the
TV's internet functionality; 2D --> 3D conversion; 600Hz
Sub-field Drive; Bluetooth; Media Player; DLNA; VIERA Link; two
HDMI and two USB connections.
U50 Series
The TC-P50U50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally)
is the lone non-3D in this year's HDTV Plasma model line-up. The
model features 1080p FULL HD resolution; Fast Switching Phosphors,
Media Player; 600Hz Sub-Field Drive ;Game Mode ;two HDMI
connections and one USB port.
Panasonic first introduced its concept of connected HDTVs five
years ago and in 2012 VIERA Connect(1), Panasonic's proprietary
IPTV platform, continues to improve its functionality by employing
a cloud based technology and philosophy, allowing for an unlimited
number of apps being available to the consumer. VIERA Connect
provides access to apps in such categories as video and music,
social networking, games, news and lifestyle, sports, health and
fitness and kids education adhering to the philosophy that the
consumer should be able to personalize the internet experience,
VIERA Connect features a market site, where the consumer can select
specific apps or accessories from a limitless selection.
Popular sites, including Netflix™, Amazon Instant Video™,
YouTube™, Pandora®, Twitter, Facebook, Bloomberg News, AP, Wall
Street Journal, Accuweather® , Skype™, Wealth TV, CinemaNow, Hulu
Plus™, sports sites Fox Sports, MLB, NBA, NHL and MLS(2) ,BodyMedia
and Withings continue on VIERA Connect and are joined by a host of
exciting features and apps, all optimized for the best possible
user experience. On November 1, 2011,
Panasonic introduced an app, Social Networking TV that allows one
to access social network sites such as Twitter and Facebook, while
simultaneously enjoying programming on their VIERA HDTV. At the
same time, Panasonic also announced the addition of a new gaming
application from PlayJam and a movie/video channel dedicated to
Bollywood, called BigFlix. BigFlix will allow users to access
Bollywood Video on Demand, while PlayJam is a game channel with
multiple game apps
With ease of use as a major focus, VIERA Connect's interface
implements quick keyword input (like a cell phone) to help retrieve
favorite content faster and easier. An optional Skype Communication
camera (TY-CC20W) allows the consumer to communicate with friends
and family via a large TV, rather than on a small computer or smart
phone screen. There is also an app that allows one to use their
iPhone/iPad as a remote.
Panasonic HDTVs also employ VIERA Link™ - a technology that
utilizes HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a
consumer to operate all VIERA Link compatible A/V components using
only the TV's remote control and helpful on-screen menus. In
addition to operating a VIERA HDTV, video source (Blu-ray Disc™ and
DVD player) and home theater receiver, A VIERA Link capable Network
Camera can be connected to a VIERA HDTV and controlled via VIERA
remote. Users can then watch their child, pet and/or property by
installing the camera and networking to the VIERA HDTV via Ethernet
cable
About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Secaucus, N.J.,
Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic
Corporation of North America, the
principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE:
PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and
R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in
the U.S. and Canada. The Company's portfolio of innovative
consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray
players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless
Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and
more.
Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the
earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the
company's Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer
Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the
Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic
on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for
media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
(1) Access to a broadband internet connection is
required to access VIERA Connect features.
(2) Some services such as Netflix Amazon Instant
Video and league sports sites have a separate fee structure to view
movies and sports events
SOURCE Panasonic