LG is putting curved OLED televisions on sale earlier than predicted. The electronics producer is opening up its 55-inch EA9800 to pre-orders in Korea today, with shipments in the country expected in June. The HDTV’s release outside of Korea will apparently be announced in the coming months, along with regional pricing.
Weighing in at 37.5 pounds and at 4.3mm (0.17-inches) thick, not taking into account the curvature itself, the EA9800 provides what is described as an “IMAX-like viewing experience,” with the curved screen allowing for the entire display’s surface to be equidistant from the viewer’s eyes, reducing distortion at the edges and loss of detail. Using a four-color pixel system, it uses an extra white sub-pixel to fine-tune colors, and the OLED display is also capable of an “infinite contrast ratio.” Thin transparent speakers are incorporated into the clear stand, in order to avoid spoiling the appearance of the curved screen.
More than 1,400 LG retail stores in South Korea will be taking orders for the curved TV, which is priced at 15 million wong ($13,500). A release in other territories is likely to be at a much higher price.
