CES 2009

Read all 'broadband' posts in CES 2009
January 7, 2009 9:00 AM PST

LG LCDs offer Netflix streaming and other broadband goodies

by David Katzmaier
  • Post a comment

The LH50 series of LG LCDs brings beefy broadband.

(Credit: LG)

LG and Netflix have already announced that select TVs produced by the Korean electronics company will be the first to stream Netflix's Watch Now video service without the need for an additional set-top box. Today LG fleshed out details on specific models.

The company will put Netflix and a host of other broadband content options into one series of LCD TVs, the LH50 models detailed here, as well as the PS80 series of plasmas. The LH50 series will come in two sizes: the 47-inch 47LH50 and the 42-inch 42LH50. Pricing was not announced at the show, but the LCDs will ship in late spring.

In addition to Netflix streaming, the sets will be able to access YouTube videos, utilize Yahoo widgets--on-screen applications with real-time info like weather, stock tickers, financial news, Yahoo! Video, Flickr images, etc--and connect to a networked PC or USB device via a port on the TV to access photos and music (but not video). They utilize an Ethernet connection for all this broadband content; the company does not offer a specific wireless option, although third-party wireless bridges should work.

Additional features include a 120Hz refresh rate with dejudder processing, four HDMI inputs, and a room lighting sensor to help cut down on power consumption.

Like most LG HDTVs, the LH50 models also boast extensive picture controls, including the same 10-point IRE system and full color-management controls we liked on the company's 2008 models. A new "picture wizard" is available as well, which employs a series of on-screen test patterns to ease user calibration.

LG LH50 models

The following products mentioned are available.

On Sale Now: $999.00 - $1,499.95
View the latest prices for LG 47LH50

On Sale Now: $831.49 - $1,169.95
View the latest prices for LG 42LH50

January 7, 2009 9:00 AM PST

High-end LG plasmas fuse THX and Netflix

by David Katzmaier
  • Post a comment

LG's higher-end PS80 plasmas will be the first to stream Netflix.

(Credit: LG)

LG and Netflix have already announced that select TVs produced by the Korean electronics company will be the first to stream Netflix's Watch Now video service without the need for an additional set-top box. Today LG fleshed out details on specific models, including two plasmas with THX display certification.

The company will put Netflix and a host of other broadband content options into a pair of plasma TVs, the PS80 models detailed here, as well as the LH50 series of LCDs. The two sizes in the PS80 series include the 50-inch 50PS80 and the 60-inch 60PS80. Both are available in June, and prices were not disclosed.

Like the PG60 series we reviewed last year, the PS80 models also offer THX display certification. If the 2008 sets are any indication, that certification will lead to improved color accuracy.

In addition to Netflix streaming, the PS80 plasmas will be able to access YouTube videos, utilize Yahoo widgets--onscreen applications with real-time info like weather, stock tickers, financial news, Yahoo! Video, Flickr images, etc--and connect to a networked PC or USB device via a port on the TV to access photos and music (but not video). They utilize an Ethernet connection for all this broadband content; the company does not offer a specific wireless option, although third-party wireless bridges should work.

In case you're not happy with THX mode, the PS80 models also boast extensive picture controls, including the same 10-point IRE system and full color management controls we liked on the company's 2008 models. A new "picture wizard" is available as well, which employs a series of onscreen test patterns to ease user calibration.

The following products mentioned are available.

On Sale Now: $1,199.00 - $1,699.95
View the latest prices for LG 50PS80

On Sale Now: $1,938.00 - $2,699.95
View the latest prices for LG 60PS80

  • prev
  • 1
  • next
advertisement

About CES 2009

Add this feed to your online news reader

CES 2009 topics

CES 2009 Awards


Best of CES and
People's Voice Award

Since 2006, CNET has presented the Best of CES Awards, given to the top product in 10 categories as well as one coveted Best in Show award. See the gadgets that topped our list for this year, and find out the People's Voice winner, decided by more than 10,000 member votes.

Now accepting submissions for the 2010 Best of CES Awards.


About CES

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the world's largest consumer electronics trade show. CES 2009 is scheduled for January 8 through 11 in Las Vegas, and it will feature thousands of exhibitors showcasing their latest tech products. CNET's team of reporters and reviewers will be at the show, covering technology's heavy hitters and previewing thousands of products before they are released to the public.

Each year, CNET, in partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association, produces the Best of CES awards at the International Consumer Electronics Show. The CNET editorial team recognizes the best new products at the show with awards in 10 categories, an overall Best of Show award, and the People's Voice award, which is selected by CNET's online audience.

Most Discussed