LG, Samsung to Grow Smartphone Market Share
Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics have gained footholds in the global market of smartphones in 2010 with Galaxy S and Optimus One respectively, and will launch many smartphone models to strengthen their market status in high-end and entry-level as well as mid-range to entry-level segments respectively, according to Taiwan-based handset makers.
Samsung will continue to push AMOLED display technology while LG will make use of IPS, for now.
Beyond TCO: Digital Signage
When considering TCO for screen hardware, think about a.) What type of content you’ll be running on the screen. High-motion video will require a higher Hz rate, and plasma may be a good option b.) Power consumption. Plasma uses more power than LCD which uses more power than LED. c.) Quality. The rule of thumb is to go with commercial grade screens, although I’ve seen many installs use consumer grade screens if there is infrequent use of the network (arenas, etc.).
Chimei Innolux Expands LTPS Capacity
Chimei Innolux (CMI) reportedly has started expanding its LTPS production line as the capacity from the 3.5G plant (originally from TPO Displays) and Tainan plant will not fulfill demand from clients in 2011.
One line of thinking is that CMI wants to become a supplier to Apple's iPad program. According to DigiTimes, the 9.7-inch IPS LCD is manufactured using a LTPS process.
TV Panel Prices Hit Bottom in Fourth Quarter 2010
Panel inventory has returned to normal as a result of year-end shopping and demand for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday. CCFL-backlit models are expected to be cleared out, while new LED-backlit models will hit the market in the first quarter of 2011.
TV sales performance now depends on whether or not demand from China in the first quarter of 2011 will be strong enough compared to expectations. If sales do not materialize inventory will rise and prices for LCD TV panels with LED backlights will continue to decline.