Matsushita sets goals for itself: 40-inch OLED TV by 2011
By Darren Murph 
posted Jul 29th 2008 7:55AM
posted Jul 29th 2008 7:55AM
A bit earlier this year we heard that Panasonic (Matsushita's red-headed stepchild) was vying for a little recognition in the OLED TV game, but outside of that, details were scarce. Now, however, we're being told that the outfit is planning to start selling 40-inch OEL (organic electroluminescent, better known as OLED 'round these parts) televisions "as early as 2011." Reportedly, it will be investing "several billion yen" to construct a prototype production line for OEL panels "20-inches and larger" that will go into service next spring. We'd be pretty stoked if the final product were within sight, but make sure to ring us early on next decade to make sure we haven't completely forgotten about this here promise.
Since Panasonic and Pioneer have that partnership deal, I wonder if Pioneer will pick up OLED for future Kuro TVs as well?
If they do make that target, anyone want to guess what the MSRP will be? My bet is on $39,999.99 -- just like the recent 70" LCDs have been.
I think it's still going to be ten years minimum before we see usable-sized OLEDs at affordable prices. That is, if the tech even survives that long.
I'm sure the tech will survive that long, but yeah, the price is going to have to drop quite a bit to knock plasma off the top of the HDTV hill.
Shouldn't they work out the longevity issues before they invest so much dang money in OLED? I mean I know it looks nice when it works but what's the point if it goes kaput after a few years?