It's all about the tellies, and who can show off the most new models. Panasonic has decided that it's time the world saw its 16 new plasma VIERA sets, and five new LCD ones. So here they are.
In fact, it's also a bit of a re-branding exercise. As if we're really that bothered what Panny decide to call their TVs, they've announced that their entire 2008 line of HDTVs will be called VIERA. So there you go.
Definitely pushing for plasma, there are five new series (PZ850 (pictured); PZ800; PZ85; PZ80; PX80), featuring new panels, improved contrast ratios, SD memory card slots, Game Mode (minimises lag), and more HDMI connections.
Most are full 1080p sets, except for a couple of 720p models, in 42 and 50 inch varieties. Sizes range from 42 up to 65 inch screen sizes.
Panasonic's top of the line plasma models introduce IP enabled TV, a technology that provides access to online content, such as YouTube and Picasa, directly from the televison.
The Z850 series also features a Pro Setting menu giving access to professional calibration software.
Panasonic's five LCD sets are in two series, the 2008 LCD VIERA line and the Premium VIERA line.
The "basic" series features two 720p TVs, in 26 and 32-inch varieties, plus a 37-inch full 1080p TV. It's obviously not the HD resolution that Panasonic reckons makes a TV premium, then.
In fact, the two Premium models (32 and 37 inch) add Motion Focus Technology, and four rather than three HDMI connectors, plus a PC input and BBE VIVA Surround Sound. Oh, and looks wise, they have the appearance of being made from one sheet of glass.
They'll be available at various times between spring and autumn this year.
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