The LCD TV market saw a rapid shift toward sizes larger than 40-inch at the end of 2011, as consumers, particularly in North America and China, took advantage of new sizes and more affordable prices, according to DisplaySearch. As larger sizes such as 46-, 47-, 55-, 60- and 65-inch are being adopted by consumers, panel makers are also developing other new large size TV panels, including 43-, 48-, 50-, 70-, and even 75-, 80-inch and larger.
In response to the strong end-market adoption, DisplaySearch has increased its forecast for LCD TV area demand. DisplaySearch indicated that LCD TV panel demand will reach 85 million square meters in 2012, nearly 2% higher than the previous forecast. DisplaySearch has also increased the area demand forecast from 2013 to 2018 to account for increased 40-inch and larger LCD TV demand.
DisplaySearch pointed out several factors that are driving the increase in LCD TV area including new panel sizes such as 39-, 43-, 48-, 50- and 65-inch that are being manufactured in the same 6G through 8G fabs, but now offer better glass substrate utilization efficiency. More LCD TV brands are developing products around these new sizes and introducing them to the end-market this year.
Furthermore, there are promotions of large sizes including 58-, 60-, 65-, 70-, 71-, 72-, 75-, 80-, 82- and 84-inch, some of them with high-end features and specifications such as 21:9 cinema form factor or 4K2K (4000x2000 resolution). As more large sizes are presented to consumers at attractive prices, consumers will be encouraged to upgrade to larger sizes.
Firms have been introducing new features like smart interactive TV, 3D viewing, ultra-slim bezel and direct-type LED backlights to encourage end-users to choose larger sizes for a better viewing experience.
In addition, the percentage of 40-inch and larger sizes in LCD TV demand has been increasing as consumers continue to adopt these products. In 2015, 40-inch and larger sizes are expected to account for 38% of total LCD TV panel demand, which was previously forecasted at 34%, DisplaySearch said.