By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: Samsung Electronics has reinvigorated the premium end of the flat panel TV market, releasing a new super-premium model at just under $10,000. This segment of the market, which was dormant following Pioneer’s withdrawal from plasma, is being chased by Samsung, which has incorporated some of the most interesting and exciting technologies into this model.

Called the Series 9 despite there only being one model at launch, this 55-inch LED LCD TV features a stainless steel bezel, hidden control unit and a remote control with its own in-built TV. Keeping with Samsung’s overall push into the 3D segment, this model is 3D ready, and will come with one pair of glasses included. Samsung’s Internet@TV portal is included, so users can download apps, watch YouTube and access internet TV stations through their home network.

The remote control for this unit is a step up from the traditional infrared device, with the 3-inch colour display able to stream either the same content from the TV, or a different channel, meaning that users can watch two programmes simultaneously. The remote control, however, cannot play 3D content.

Content inputs include four HDMI drives and USB connectivity, meaning users can play video, music and images from a thumbdrive. Furthermore, the AllShare WiFi feature enables wireless streaming of content from enabled PCs, mobile phones and digital cameras.

Samsung senior product manager Evan Manolis confirmed that Myer, David Jones and Harvey Norman were all prepared to stock this product. Furthermore, Samsung will be targeting the hotel, hospitality and car sale industries through its commercial channel. Manolis said this TV would fit in well in, for example, a BMW dealership.