IFA 2006: Flat panel prices dropping in 2007
By Richard Lawler 
posted Sep 5th 2006 1:55PM
posted Sep 5th 2006 1:55PM
No surprise there, but the question is how much? LG was quoted a few days ago as saying they expect LCD prices to plunge as by 30% or more next year, mimicking their behavior in 2006, while today Hitachi says they expect plasmas to drop around 20%. Both have big plans for next year, with LG rolling out their first 47-inch 1080p LCD this year, along with 1080p 65- and 70-inch PDPs, followed by smaller versions of both the LCDs and plasmas next year. Hitachi has a few tricks up their sleeve as well, with their own 50-inch 1080p plasma slated for next year and a high-powered advertising campaign. Still, with so many competitors, both know that increasing production and cutting prices will be the key to keeping/increasing their marketshare. Now the hard part for consumers is knowing when to jump in, that prices have and will continue to drop is nothing new, but even when what is now a brand-new TV is 20% off, you'll have to choose between old technology, a shiny new LED-based set, SED or even something else.Read - LG Elec sees LCD TV prices down 30% plus in 2007
Read - Hitachi sees smaller fall in plasma TV prices
I welcome the price drop frenzy. If 2007 is anything like what's currently happening between Hitachi, HP Panasonic and Samsung more power to them.
I just Hope the designs are attractive, this year's Panasonic Viera line-up are a big disappointment., Who says Matte Black is a better choice over High Gloss Black?
Wait a sec., LG was already producing 768p 60" PDPs since 2002. And i remember during CES 2006 they announced their 1080p 60", not 65" that was suppose to be available in August, i got photos of that.
And in case you haven't notice, they have been producing their 71" not 70" 1080p version since 2004. Were do you get this 65" and 70" sizes?
I wish Fujitsu will join the happy price drop cheapopolooza campaign., i want one of those Jet Black Plasmavision in either 50" or 55", but their prices and crazy resellers policies are just as ridiculous as their executives.