LG Electronics has released a touch-screen TV, which it says brings the advantages of a PC to the TV, while letting users control content directly.
According to LG, the Plasma Pentouch TV lets users control and edit content with a special pen. The Plasma Pentouch TV must be connected to a PC for Pentouch mode to function, LG points out. The company says once the Pentouch mode is activated, users can access files on their PCs and edit them on the TV screen.
Users can save changes made to documents and images on the TV, and if the PC is connected to a printer, they can print out their handiwork, too, says LG. It adds that the TV supports simultaneous two-pen use.
According to LG, the TV comes with applications including Gallery, which features a slideshow function; Digital Photo Frame, which allows users to pick custom frames for their images; and Family Calendar.
App-driven device
Steven Ambrose, MD of Strategy Worx, suggests that usage of the Pentouch will depend on the applications available. “If these are focused on children, then they will be the biggest users,” he says. He adds that the Pentouch is likely to find initial adoption in the business and education sectors. However, he says the device will also find adoption in households where people desire cutting-edge technology.
Ambrose says the Pentouch highlights the convergence of connectivity and interactivity from the traditional computer, to the most widely used tech device in the home. According to him, this convergence is still in its early stages, but he notes that interactive TVs will become more common in the next few years.
LG says the Plasma Pentouch TV is available in two models: the 60-inch 60PZ850, which has 3D capability, and the 50-inch 50PT490, which does not have 3D capability. The two models will retail at a recommended price of R25 999 and R10 999, respectively.
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