LG introduces two Ultra HD TV models

LG launches two Ultra HD TVs after the success of the LG 84 Inch Ultra HD TV

Expanding on the strong interest surrounding its 84-inch ULTRA High Definition TV, LG Electronics (LG) today announced the addition of 55- and 65-inch ULTRA HD TV models in markets around the world, enabling even more consumers to enjoy the benefits of 4K technology. Initially introduced in South Korea last month, the two LA9700 series ULTRA HD TVs were rolled out in the United States this week and will be followed by introductions in overseas markets such as the U.K., Russia and Australia.

“When we first unveiled our 84-inch ULTRA HD TV at CES last year, the reception we received was phenomenal,” said Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Electronics’ Home Entertainment Company. “The ULTRA HD TV format is here to stay and with the new sizes offering NANO FULL LED backlighting and our proprietary Tru-ULTRA HD Engine, these models are in a class of their own.”

Unmatched Picture Quality and Sound
The new LA9700 series delivers unbelievable picture quality with more than four times the screen resolution of conventional HD TVs. The 55- and 65-inch ULTRA HD TVs produce incredibly sharp images with a resolution of 8.3 million pixels per frame. The Tru-ULTRA HD Engine maximizes image clarity and provides exceptional up-scaling, enabling consumers to view any video format in near-ULTRA HD quality. Additionally, LG’s LA9700 models are equipped with NANO FULL LED backlighting which results in deeper blacks and consistent brightness and contrast. With the inclusion of LG’s advanced In-Plane Switching (IPS) panels, the new TVs deliver accurate color expression across a wide, 178 degree viewing angle.

Both LA9700 models offer a 4.1 channel surround sound system which includes the stylish, forward-facing Sliding Speaker. With excellent mid- and high- frequency range performance, this elegant unit can be positioned to remain hidden or visible, delivering excellent sound either way. Alternatively, the Sliding Speaker can be set to extend automatically when the TV is turned on, and retract when powered off. A powerful subwoofer, located behind the TV’s screen, ensures strong bass performance.

Smart Design, Smart TV
Design-wise, the LA9700 ULTRA HD TVs create a stunning visual impression and a more immersive viewing experience thanks to the ULTRA-thin bezels of LG’s CINEMA SCREEN Design. And LG’s intuitive Smart TV platform provides easy access to a wide range of applications and content services from around the globe. The company’s excellent Magic Remote boasts natural language recognition, point, wheel, and gesture control options, making it easy to navigate menus, search for content or play exciting Smart TV games. What’s more, SmartShare offers the simplicity of Tag On (LG’s NFC-based device pairing feature), and the convenience of WiDi and Miracast screen mirroring. And the LA9700’s Now On function recommends content based on the user’s viewing patterns and previous program purchases.

Certified Picture Quality
The exceptional 2D and 3D picture quality of LG’s new 55- and 65-inch ULTRA HD TVs has been certified by respected international product testing and certification bodies, Intertek and Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Both organizations employ rigorous assessment processes, measuring a wide range of attributes including viewing angle, contrast consistency, color accuracy and 3D performance.

The new LA9700 models carry a suggested price of USD 7,999 for the 65-inch and USD 6,999 for the 55-inch model in the United States. Prices outside the U.S. will be announced at launch time.

LG electronics goes green

Two trends are going to play a significant role in determining which companies thrive in a global market characterised by rising energy prices and dwindling resources. Companies that improve their internal energy efficiency and offer products or services that help consumers improve their own energy efficiency are going to be the big winners.

Mr Josep Kim, the LG East Africa Managing Director says LG is increasingly focusing its innovation around constantly improving energy efficiency in its products to deliver value for money and remain eco-friendly in its operations. “LG's green vision is to provide values that enhance the quality of life for its consumers and create a healthier and cleaner environment,” say Josep Kim, the LG East Africa Managing Director.   

LG officials showcase the world's first 84 Inch Ultra-HD TV during the East African launch

He however explains that improving facility efficiency is only one small step in making the company as environmentally. Before any manufacturing materials arrive at LG’s facilities for processing, LG undertakes an evaluation process to ensure that the company’s suppliers are equally committed to eco-friendly practices.

LG’s supply chain management system ensures that all of LG’s partners take the necessary steps to ensure that the components they are supplying to LG are free of hazardous materials and are obtained in an environmentally responsible manner.

“LG will not do business with suppliers involved in conflict minerals or the extraction of resources from environmentally endangered areas,” says Mr Kim. Away from the company’s operations, Mr Kim says LG has been expanding its range of green products.

Consumers are often surprised when they learn that LG’s top-end high performance home entertainment products are also industry leaders in eco-friendly features. Take the 55-inch OLED TV as an example.

Focus is usually placed – perhaps rightfully so – on the scintillating visual capabilities of the screen. Yet the same technology that produces vivid, breathtaking picture quality also delivers real eco-friendly benefits.

The OLED structure eliminates the need for backlighting of any kind. This means that the TV consumes far less energy than rival systems. In addition, the structure is extremely thin, thus reducing weight and cutting down on the energy required for shipping and distribution. And bigger doesn’t necessarily mean higher energy consumption when it comes to LG TVs.

LG’s 84-inch flagship TV features a maximum energy saving mode that cuts energy consumption by 70 percent over conventional TVs.

Most recently, the company’s latest variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system, the Multi V IV, put an emphatic exclamation mark on LG’s technological achievements by posting a stunning 4.78 coefficient of performance (COP) rating.

The Multi V IV’s predecessor, the Multi V III, had already helped LG win a host of awards, including the ‘Best Project Award’ from Climate Control Middle East. LG’s VRF systems enable impressive reductions in energy costs because they are able to rapidly adapt to changing loads.

The improved inverter technology minimizes energy consumption, and the modular design of the units allows building managers to use the system only in zones that require climate control while leaving other zones inactive.

“When it comes to environmental concerns, we’re top of the list of air conditioning manufacturer that are committed to the cause,” says Kranthi Mahakala, an engineer at AC Academy & Marketing. For instance, LG Multi V III, LG has set a world record level of Coefficient of Performance (COP), the clearest measure of energy efficiency in air conditioning.

In installing this advanced air conditioning system, says Mr Mahakala, building owners aren’t just embracing a technology with a far lower impact on the environment; they’re looking at greatly reduced energy bills, too. The Multi V III’s record-breaking energy efficiency is made possible by a technology called HiPORTM (High Pressure Oil Return). HiPORTM enables the compressor to return the oil directly to a high level of pressure, instead of the low levels on conventional AC units.

By minimizing unnecessary re-compressing at lower levels of pressure, HiPORTM reduces energy losses and increases COP levels. Presently, much of the world faces dreadful air pollution along with the attendant threat to public health. Against this backdrop, there is need to re-examine how they use the air, not least the makers of air conditioning appliances.

“The type of AC appliances we install are dependent on whether the building is a residential flat, auditorium or manufacturing plant. We have software and engineers we send on site that measure the cooling load and advice on the AC systems to put in place,” says Mr. Jinan Choi, the LG East Africa Head of Air Conditioning.

LG’s range of home and kitchen appliances enables customers to take advantage of some smile-inducing eco-friendly benefits. For instance, the company’s washing machines and dishwashers are designed to use less water and electricity, its refrigerators create new energy efficient storage options and its ovens cook food faster, thus reducing energy consumption.

LG’s Inverter Linear Compressor is a prime example of how technological innovations can have a major impact on energy efficiency. By reducing friction points from four to just one, LG’s compressor is quieter, more reliable and far more efficient. This is good news for consumers who are looking for both industry leading performance and cutting-edge energy efficiency.

Samsung, DStv Kenya Launch “Deal Supuu” Consumer Promotion

Samsung consumers can now get either a High Definition (HD) decoder or DSTV decoder with every purchase of a television set enabling them enjoy the benefits of digital TV immediately.

The deal, back due to popular demand, is similar to an earlier ‘digital migration’ promotion that ran in February this year which was a huge hit with consumers.

This time round, a consumer qualifies for a free decoder, 1 month free subscription and free installation with every purchase of select Samsung TV models at any Nakumatt outlet countrywide. The offer applies to all Samsung TVs E Series Models

The type of decoder, either single view or HD, will also be dependent on the type of TV purchased.

Speaking during the official launch of the promotion, Samsung General Manager, Consumer Electronics, Allan Oyier lauded the second phase of the partnership as a win-win between two leading brands and the consumer.

“We have ceded to our customers request to re-introduce the promotion and urge them to take advantage of the offer while stocks last. All a consumer needs to do is to buy a Samsung TV from as low as KShs. 59,995/- and get a free DStv decoder and one month subscription,” he said.  The promo commenced this week and will be limited to availability of stocks.

On his part, MultiChoice Kenya General Manager Danny Mucira expounded on the benefits of digital migration that Kenyans are currently embracing in droves. Both spoke earlier today at Nakumatt Westgate.

“By embracing this deal, consumers will be able to enjoy DStv which offers world-class entertainment in line with the best digital pay television platforms worldwide,” he said. 

The Samsung TV brand is renowned for its Built for Africa features; triple protector, amazing picture quality and energy saving technology.

Among the benefits of digital migration, include but are not limited to, easy access to an increased number of channels, enhanced picture and sound quality.  

 “The advantages that comes with the use of the digital TV compared with the current analogue television is immense and Kenyans are positively embracing the new technology and enjoy quality viewership and choice as well as diversity in programming,” added Mr. Mucira.

Startimes in con racket

Even before the dust settles on recent wrangles with Communication Commission of Kenya surrounding Star Times charging its subscribers for free-to-air channels in Kenya, the Pay TV company now finds itself embroiled in a dispute with Ugandan consumers for selling them outdated decoders.

Star Times’ Chinese national Kevin Chen, who’s Company, has been in the business of conning Ugandans by selling them obsolete decoders that are to be switched off before the end of this month to pave for the internationally acceptable Digital TV Broadcasting, is scheduled to face Ugandan courts.

Two Ugandan citizens Mulwani Taminwa and Muzamiru Kasamba were on 18th June cleared by the Commercial section of the High Court to file a case on behalf of more than 130,000 complainants whom, the Chinese duped into paying for the outlandish appliances.

They will be joined by the Uganda Consumers Protection Awareness Association (UCPAA) to push for a refund from the Chinese. The victims will also seek a swap for the compliant decoders from the accused.

Ugandan lawyer Richard Omongole filed the public interest lawsuit, with a preliminary application by Mulwani, Kasamba and UCPAA, to bring a representative suit on behalf of the victims of the con racket.

The Court’s deputy registrar Thaddeus Opesen allowed the application, which is to be served to Star Times management through an advertisement in the media.

The decoders in question go by the name DVB-T Set Top Box, which the plaintiff claim are products of outdated technology as declared by the 2006 International Telecommunications Union Conference that sat in Geneva.

Ever since the Uganda Communication Commission announced the analogue-to-digital TV migration deadline, the plaintiffs allege, the Chinese lowered the prices of their obsolete gadgets, luring scores of Ugandans who are prefer cheap commodities.

UCC has since drafted a policy and attendant public notice announcing Uganda was to adopt Digital Television Broadcasting Technology thereby abolishing the use of the outdated Star Times decoders.

UCC instructed the parties involved to stop the sale of DVB-T Technology,

but Star Times, continued to do so,” asserts Mulwani in affidavit he swore before Commissioner of Oaths Deo Bitaguma. Mulwani attached a list of the recent purchases by Ugandans, of the outdated and banned gadgets.

Even when the consumers body (UCCPAA) issued a September 18th 2012 statement demanding that Star Times stopped breaching the UCC ban, Star Times management did not adhere to the directive.

Though the consumers’ body copied the letter to Parliament, ICT and Trade Ministry and the Chinese Embassy, they ignored the breach, giving Star Times a free hand to exploit Ugandan consumers.

The Government failed to intervene as required by the Geneva Conference resolution to phase out obsolete TV gadgets. This is because it could not afford to annoy the loaded Chinese investors as well as their government which is bankrolling many projects such as the President’s Office, among

others. In a twist of events, the Uganda Responsible Investment (URI) body instead named the company as the Best Digital TV Providers of the year.

Greenovation the LG way

Two trends are going to play a significant role in determining which companies thrive in a global market characterised by rising energy prices and dwindling resources. Companies that improve their internal energy efficiency and offer products or services that help consumers improve their own energy efficiency are going to be the big winners.

Mr Josep Kim, the LG East Africa Managing Director says LG is increasingly focusing its innovation around constantly improving energy efficiency in its products to deliver value for money and remain eco-friendly in its operations. “LG's green vision is to provide values that enhance the quality of life for its consumers and create a healthier and cleaner environment,” say Josep Kim, the LG East Africa Managing Director.   

Josep Kim, LG Managing Director for East and Central Africa, breakdowns the features the World’s first 84inch Ultra HD TV during a recent media breakfast. The TV is wider than a car and costs almost as much.  

                                                                         

He however explains that improving facility efficiency is only one small step in making the company as environmentally friendly as possible. Before any manufacturing materials arrive at LG’s facilities for processing, LG undertakes an evaluation process to ensure that the company’s suppliers are equally committed to eco-friendly practices.

LG’s supply chain management system ensures that all of LG’s partners take the necessary steps to ensure that the components they are supplying to LG are free of hazardous materials and are obtained in an environmentally responsible manner.

“LG will not do business with suppliers involved in conflict minerals or the extraction of resources from environmentally endangered areas,” says Mr Kim. Away from the company’s operations, Mr Kim says LG has been expanding its range of green products.

Consumers are often surprised when they learn that LG’s top-end high performance home entertainment products are also industry leaders in eco-friendly features. Take the 55-inch OLED TV as an example.

Focus is usually placed – perhaps rightfully so – on the scintillating visual capabilities of the screen. Yet the same technology that produces vivid, breathtaking picture quality also delivers real eco-friendly benefits.

The OLED structure eliminates the need for backlighting of any kind. This means that the TV consumes far less energy than rival systems. In addition, the structure is extremely thin, thus reducing weight and cutting down on the energy required for shipping and distribution. And bigger doesn’t necessarily mean higher energy consumption when it comes to LG TVs.

LG’s 84-inch flagship TV features a maximum energy saving mode that cuts energy consumption by 70 percent over conventional TVs.

Most recently, the company’s latest variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system, the Multi V IV, put an emphatic exclamation mark on LG’s technological achievements by posting a stunning 4.78 coefficient of performance (COP) rating.

The Multi V IV’s predecessor, the Multi V III, had already helped LG win a host of awards, including the ‘Best Project Award’ from Climate Control Middle East. LG’s VRF systems enable impressive reductions in energy costs because they are able to rapidly adapt to changing loads.

The improved inverter technology minimizes energy consumption, and the modular design of the units allows building managers to use the system only in zones that require climate control while leaving other zones inactive.

“When it comes to environmental concerns, we’re top of the list of air conditioning manufacturer that are committed to the cause,” says Kranthi Mahakala, an engineer at AC Academy & Marketing. For instance, LG Multi V III, LG has set a world record level of Coefficient of Performance (COP), the clearest measure of energy efficiency in air conditioning.

In installing this advanced air conditioning system, says Mr Mahakala, building owners aren’t just embracing a technology with a far lower impact on the environment; they’re looking at greatly reduced energy bills, too. The Multi V III’s record-breaking energy efficiency is made possible by a technology called HiPORTM (High Pressure Oil Return). HiPORTM enables the compressor to return the oil directly to a high level of pressure, instead of the low levels on conventional AC units.

By minimizing unnecessary re-compressing at lower levels of pressure, HiPORTM reduces energy losses and increases COP levels. Presently, much of the world faces dreadful air pollution along with the attendant threat to public health. Against this backdrop, there is need to re-examine how they use the air, not least the makers of air conditioning appliances.

“The type of AC appliances we install are dependent on whether the building is a residential flat, auditorium or manufacturing plant. We have software and engineers we send on site that measure the cooling load and advice on the AC systems to put in place,” says Mr. Jinan Choi, the LG East Africa Head of Air Conditioning.

LG’s range of home and kitchen appliances enables customers to take advantage of some smile-inducing eco-friendly benefits. For instance, the company’s washing machines and dishwashers are designed to use less water and electricity, its refrigerators create new energy efficient storage options and its ovens cook food faster, thus reducing energy consumption.

LG’s Inverter Linear Compressor is a prime example of how technological innovations can have a major impact on energy efficiency. By reducing friction points from four to just one, LG’s compressor is quieter, more reliable and far more efficient. This is good news for consumers who are looking for both industry leading performance and cutting-edge energy efficiency.