Samsung's LED Backlight Introduced for new LCD Monitors and Upcoming HDTV's

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd of Korea announced that their new 24" monitors will include an LED backlight to allow for more realistic colors. LCD monitors currently have a 72% saturation of the NTSC standard. This means that color reproduction is not "accurate" or as "realistic" as they could be. Samsung's new LCD monitors will be using a color saturation level of 111% of the NTSC standard.

The displays will be available by the end of the second quarter of 2007. 24" is now recognised as the monitor size that most accurately displays a 1080 resolution and the smallest size most compatible with the upcoming Windows Vista operating system. The displays will also include Samsungs "Super Patterned-ITO Vertical Alignment (S-PVA)" technology that provides for the widest viewing angle possible, WUXGA resolution (1,920 x 1,200), and over a 1000:1 contrast ratio.

The LED backlight technology replaces the current mercury based backlight in LCD's. Mercury contributes to poor black levels as the mercury "emits" light even when the color black is being displayed. This turns the color black, into a greyish tone and also effects all the other colors in the color pallete, rendering them as "inaccurate." Inaccurate colors and poor black levels have also been a problem with Samsungs HDTV LCD's, so introducing the LED backlight system to the larger HDTV models will lead to a significant improvement. I caught a look at Samsung's upcoming line of lcd hdtv's with LED backlight during CES 2007, and can say that it is a huge improvement over their current line. No release dates has been give for these as yet.

Microsoft Officially Retires Windows XP in 2008!

Windows XP made it's debut towards the end of 2001. At first, people were hesitant to switch over from Windows 2000, and those running Windows ME were more than happy to find a fix for their charade of nonstop problems. That was six years ago. Since then, around 85% of home computers run Windows XP around the globe. Yesterday it was officially announced that Microsoft will retire the XP operating system in 2008. In addition, from 31st January 2008, large PC makers, such as Dell, HP and Toshiba, will no longer be able to buy licences directly from Microsoft for pre-installation on newly sold machines. They can however, obtain these licenses from third party vendors up until 2009.

The majority of users around the globe aren't yet ready to upgrade to the new Windows Vista operating system, and approximately only 10% of current Windows based users have shown any immediate interest in the new product. The recent press for the first round of bugs is a huge deterent, while businesses usually wait until service pack 1 is released before migrating over.

Most importantly though, support will remain for Windows XP as Microsoft realises that the current user base are not ready or willing to upgrade, and that XP still has a fairly long shelf life left. Obviously this also has an inpact on the HD world, because most of our tools, interactivity, and downloadable content are made available to us, and rely upon, software from the home PC.

Display 2007, Tokyo Japan, April 11th-13th

This event is going on now in Japan. Think of it as a CES for HDTV's. All the big players will be there and once the press releases have been issued, I'll put some pics up. Highlights will be Organic electroluminescent (EL) displays, FED (see yesterdays post)and who knows what else.


Organic electroluminescent (EL) display has boasted a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio so we'll see how these performs. I got a look at the Sony OLED's at CES 2007 which have similar claims, and was not that impressed. All I saw was a high contrast and a very average overall picture. Obviously, these were not production models, so for now, I'll reserve judgment. Here is the link to the event. More info as its released: Display 2007

Will you buy an HD movie, even if you already own the DVD version?

I still have some VHS tapes lying around. But I no longer own a VCR player. I think when the last one broke a couple year ago, I didn't really see the need to replace it. If I take the time to total up all the money I've spent on home video over the past 20 something years, i'm sure it would amount to a small fortune. I've owned several versions of my favorite movies too. First there was the original release of the movie, then the special edition, then in the 90's they came out with "Digitally Remastered," and now the boxset craze. I think that makes 4 copies total. Shameful really! I'm guilty of buying into marketing several times over.

I know of a few people that went crazy once they figured out how to rip and burn DVD's. Film's that they'd never watch again, but they still owned a copy of it. Then there's the impulse buys at the local electronic stores. You go in for one thing, and you walk out with three or four reduced sale price DVD's. Two were bought intentionally, and the last one caught your eye in the checkout line. One DVD for $9 doesn't sound bad at all. But "times 3" =$27, which might at least make you do a double take.

When the HD formats first came out, I was watching every and any HD title I could get my hands on. I knew that "House of Flying Daggers" was rated as one of the worst Blu Ray titles available, but I still watched it. The reviews were right, I think the DVD had a better transfer. Once I'd gotten over this excitement phase, I became a little more grounded. But enter a new problem that we didn't have before. Some movies look so amazing that you just have to watch it. I watched "Happy Feet" on Blu Ray over the weekend. The story was quite good, and overall fairly entertaining, with some funny moments. BUT the picture quality was incredible! I can honestly say that it's the best animation I've ever seen! A film like this may warrant a place in my collection, just because it LOOKS amazing. There's a long list of titles that fall in this category. Films I have NO interest in, but found myself renting from Blockbuster online, just because they were available. Thankfully, I've since caught myself, and returned to normal.

The difference between DVD and HD is immense. But I still hear some people say that they're content with DVD and have no intention of investing in HD, or even that they simply don't see the difference! In their defense, I've seen some DVD's of late that had such a good transfer, it could have been classed as a bad HD flick. But for most of those comments, I put it down to either an astigmatism or not having a trained eye in any sense of the phrase (joke, by the way). Even if you have low end HD equipment, the difference in picture quality changes the entire experience. I will say though, that the one thing I AM still guilty of, is waiting for the HD-DVD or Blu-Ray version of a movie to come out, and ignoring the DVD release. But as far as buying the same movies over again that I already own on DVD, I've learnt my lesson from the previous formats. I won't be buying up HD movies unless I honestly see myself watching it over and over again. I'd expect that in 10 years time when Ultra-HD becomes a standard, I will own a fairly small, but triumphantly commendable HD collection.....Yeah right, who am I kidding? Have you seen the picture quality on Harry Potter?............

AT&T OFFERING FREE HD TO NEW DISH NETWORK AND DIRECTV CUSTOMERS!

AT&T Launches 'Free Access to HD Programming for a Year' to Further Differentiate Its U-verse and Satellite Video Offerings From Cable. Free Access to High-Definition Programming Delivered to Video Services Customers.

SAN ANTONIO, April 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- High definition TV programming is fast becoming the nation's new must-have entertainment enhancement, and qualifying AT&T video customers can now enjoy it free for a year.


AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) today announced an offer for access to a market-leading lineup of HD programming at no cost for 12 months to qualifying new video customers within AT&T's traditional 22-state service area. New subscribers to AT&T U-verse(SM) TV service, where it is available, or to DIRECTV(R) Service, and AT&T DISH Network(TM) service (which is offered through Echostar) who mail in the required redemption forms, are eligible. "With great values and access to such a robust lineup of HD content, it's no surprise that consumers are turning to AT&T for their entertainment services," said Rick Welday, chief marketing officer, AT&T Consumer Marketing. "Free access to HD programming for a year gives consumers yet another reason to select AT&T over the competition." Through its U-verse TV service and relationships with DIRECTV and Echostar, AT&T is offering access to a leading suite of HD programming, a technology that with capable equipment can deliver rich and realistic video and near movie theater-quality sound. AT&T U-verse TV receivers and DVR are HD-enabled. AT&T offers more than 25 channels of HD programming through its AT&T U-verse TV service (where available) and up to 31 HD channels through AT&T satellite video broadcast services, DIRECTV Service and AT&T DISH Network service. These HD lineups include premium movies, sports, news, home and gardening, food, family programming, classic films and pay-per-view channels.

The free access to HD programming offer, which is a value of up to $240, is one of the first consumer promotions to be featured across the AT&T 22- state footprint and is part of AT&T's efforts to deliver consumer benefits following the AT&T-BellSouth merger in December 2006. The AT&T satellite video broadcast entertainment offer through AT&T DISH Network is available now through May 31, 2007; through DIRECTV, the offer is available through June 26, 2007; and the AT&T U-verse TV offer is available now through June 30, 2007. This AT&T release and other news announcements are available as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss .

Free HD with AT&T U-verse: HD 12 Months Free Offer: Subscription to an AT&T U-verse standard definition programming package required. HD channel availability varies based on package/additional channels ordered. After promotional period, then-current HD Technology Fee applies.

Free HD with AT&T DISH Network: Available in Connecticut, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas, Nebraska, Nevada, and California - Valid for new customers who subscribe to qualifying standard-definition (SD) programming (including America's Top 100 or higher) and DishHD programming from 4/1/07 to 5/31/07. Customers will receive two $10 credits ($100 Savings Promotion and $100 HD Bonus Promotion) for 10 consecutive months after mail-in redemption and a $20 credit in each of the remaining two consecutive months. Customer will forfeit any remaining credits in the case of a downgrade from qualifying (SD) programming or service disconnection prior to 10 months of $10 credits. May not be combined with 12 mo. Free AT&T DISH Network promotion. Other charges, restrictions, and terms and conditions apply.

DIRECTV FREE HD ACCESS FEE OFFER: For the following states: Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee - Valid for New Triple Choice customers subscribing to a qualifying DIRECTV programming package ($49.99/mo. or above) and HD Access fee ($9.99/mo.) from 4/1/07 to 6/26/07. Customer will receive $10 bill credit for 12 consecutive months after mail-in redemption. HD content will vary by package subscription. HD equipment required and available separately. Customer must maintain qualifying programming subscriptions to remain eligible. May not be combined with any other bill credit promotions. Other charges, restrictions, and terms and conditions
apply.

Source:PRNewswire

CASINO ROYALE, THE FIRST HD TITLE TO EVER SELL OVER 100,000 COPIES!

The post title pretty much sums everything up in one sentence. But this is an important milestone for high definition as a standard. No HD title on either the Blu Ray or HD-DVD format has sold this many copies until now. In addition this was the first HD title to Break into Amazon.com's top ten dvd seller list. 100,000 copies were sold in under 2 weeks. In a press release from Sony, they stated that in 1998 when the dvd format first came out, it took them almost 11 months to ship 100,000 copies of "Air Force One!" No doubt Playstation 3 has helped blu ray sales. Even though HD-DVD had almost a years head start over the Blu Ray format, it has been surpassed by 3:1 in sales volumes according to amazon.com. If you haven't picked up your copy of "Casino Royale" yet, here are links to the DVD and Blu Ray versions on amazon:

Casino Royale (Widescreen Two-Disc DVD Special Edition)

Casino Royale [Blu-ray]

MICROSOFT EXPANDS XBOX LIVE'S HD MOVIE AND TV CONTENT!

Xbox LIVE Movie and TV Roster Grows as Multiple New Partners Bring Premium Content to the Online Games and Entertainment Network A&E Network, ADV Films, National Geographic and TotalVid.com sign on to hit service; Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment to offer new high-definition content.

REDMOND, Wash., March 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Xbox 360(TM) just keeps getting more entertaining. Microsoft Corp. today announced that TV series and movies from A&E Network, ADV Films, National Geographic and TotalVid.com will add to the more than 1,500 hours of downloadable entertainment content already available on Xbox LIVE(R) in the U.S.

Further capitalizing on the success it has seen with Xbox LIVE, one of the leading distributors of high-definition gaming and entertainment content in the living room, Paramount Pictures, for the first time on Xbox LIVE, will offer its feature films for download in high definition.

Available titles will include "Braveheart," "Team America: World Police," "World Trade Center" and "South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut." Also, for the first time, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will be releasing its direct-to-video movies exclusively in high definition on Xbox LIVE simultaneous with their availability on DVD, starting with "Sublime" and later "Babylon 5: The Lost Tales." "With more than 300 games expected by year's end, an Xbox LIVE community of more than 6 million people and a growing catalogue of premium content from some of the biggest names in entertainment today, Xbox 360 is an incredible value," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business in the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft. "Adding partners and content like this helps reinforce the console's position as the center of connected entertainment in the living room."

Downloads on Xbox LIVE have grown in double-digits, month-over-month, with a 400 percent increase since the service began offering TV shows and movies late last year. Xbox LIVE members have also enjoyed free entertainment content, which has been wildly successful. Comedy Central recently offered the first-ever high definition episode of the No. 1 show on its network, "South Park." "Good Times With Weapons," available for a limited time on Xbox LIVE, has been downloaded more than 380,000 times to date. Warner Bros. Home Entertainment offered promotional clips from the blockbuster hit movie "300" that have been downloaded more than 477,000 times. While existing partners continue to increase the amount of content they offer, the list of total partners also continues to grow.

The new partners announced today will bring an array of content to Xbox LIVE Marketplace. From a reality show about a bounty hunter named Dog or an action-heavy, retro-styled mecha series to a TV show about extreme biking in the mountains or a program detailing a war in the desert, there is something for everyone. Examples of television shows and feature films that will be coming to Xbox LIVE include these:

-- A&E Network. "Dog the Bounty Hunter," "King of Cars," "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," "Driving Force" and "Criss Angel Mindfreak"

-- ADV Films. Top offerings from the No. 1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation ("anime") outside Japan

-- National Geographic. The television series "Is It Real?" and "Taboo" as well as programs such as "21 Days to Baghdad" and "Air Force One"

-- TotalVid.com. A broad action-sports offering including extreme skiing and snowboarding, skateboarding, motocross, surfing and mountain bikini

Source: PRNEWSWIRE

Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder & Others, Team Up With 103" Plasmas for Live Art Gallery

Panasonic HD Plasma Displays Bring Theater Icon ROBERT WILSON's Groundbreaking 'VOOM PORTRAITS' to Life in Top International Galleries

103-Inch (World's Largest) Plasmas Showcase High Definition Video Portraits in Exhibition Featuring Celebrities Including Brad Pitt, Isabella Rossellini and Mikhail Baryshnikov

SECAUCUS, N.J., March 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- VOOM PORTRAITS by ROBERT WILSON, a series of more than 30 high definition video portraits created by one of the most influential contemporary innovators in theater, art and design, recently began a world tour that will bring Wilson's creations to leading museums, galleries and public art spaces. For their critically- acclaimed launch at New York's renowned Phillips de Pury and Paula Cooper galleries, the HD portraits were "hung" on over 50 Panasonic professional high definition plasma displays. For the tour's second leg, now at the prestigious Ace Gallery Los Angeles through April 21, 2007, three 103" Panasonic high definition plasmas -- the largest available plasma displays in the world -- were added to the mix, lending new drama to the exhibition.

The high definition portraits, which run in infinite loops and feature individual soundtracks, capture celebrity subjects such as Brad Pitt, Winona Ryder, Johnny Depp, Monaco's HRH Princess Caroline of Hanover, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Robert Downey, Jr., Juliette Binoche, Isabelle Huppert, Isabella Rossellini, Steve Buscemi, Alan Cumming and Willam Dafoe. Subjects also include ordinary people, including an auto mechanic, and animals such as a snow owl, a black panther, a frog, and a porcupine. The three 103" plasmas are being used for the portraits of Pitt, legendary French actress Jeanne Moreau, and a tight close-up on the face of a Briard dog.

VOOM PORTRAITS by ROBERT WILSON is an ongoing project commissioned and produced by VOOM HD Networks. With 15 nationally-distributed channels in the U.S., and a growing number across the globe, VOOM is the world's largest producer of original HD programming in the arts, sports, music, animation, news, fashion and more. As part of the company's mission to explore the full potential of the new HD medium, VOOM invited Robert Wilson in 2004, to become an Artist in Residence. In addition to the tour, the portraits will be broadcast on VOOM's visual-arts channel, GALLERY HD, in fall 2007, along with a "making-of" documentary on Art In Progress, one of the channel's signature series.

Working with the Wilson team to mount the show, VOOM HD Networks purchased 32 1080p TH-65PF9UK 65" and 22 TH-42PH9UK 42" high definition Panasonic plasma displays to support VOOM PORTRAITS by ROBERT WILSON. According to Al Irizarry, Director of Production Services for VOOM's parent company Rainbow Media, "Plasma was always our only choice, and we chose Panasonic plasmas because our research showed they have the best image in the business -- a photorealistic picture with excellent black levels." Says Robert Wilson, "I'm thrilled with the result. I have been working with video since the 1960s, but with Panasonic's high definition plasma displays, I am finally finding the saturation, vivid colors and images that I have imagined all along. These plasma displays match my vision -- they are just the right medium for this project." He continues, "Beyond the technology, the design of the display is elegant and simple, and provides a perfectly proportioned frame to the image. I am very grateful for the help and support that Panasonic has given to this project, especially in providing their beautiful 103" Plasmas, which bring amazing new power to the portraits."

Source: PRNewswire, VOOM NETWORKS

Cablevision Adds Two Unique and Popular Networks to it's High Defintion Line Up

If Cablevision is your cable provider, there is some great news for you:

Discovery HD Theater And National Geographic Channel HD Bring Travel, Nature, Wildlife And Culture From Across The Globe To iO(R) Digital Cable Customers, With The Superior Picture And Sound Of High-Definition.

BETHPAGE, N.Y., March 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Cablevision Systems Corp. (NYSE: CVC) today announced the addition of Discovery HD Theater and National Geographic HD to the growing list of high-definition channels available to digital cable customers across the company's entire service area, at no additional cost. Discovery HD Theater is available on channel 727 and iO customers will find National Geographic Channel HD on channel 726. Cablevision now offers 23 high-definition programming services including local broadcast stations, the most local sports in HD and a wide variety of entertainment genres. Unlike other providers, Cablevision does not charge an equipment or programming premium for HD programming. "We are pleased to add these unique, high-quality networks to our robust array of high-definition programming, and we plan to build on these additions with a significant expansion of HD channels in the coming months," said Theresa Chillianis, Cablevision's vice president of video product management. "Our high-capacity fiber network gives Cablevision the ability to continually exceed our customers' expectations and deliver additional value through our products, including the best HD programming with no additional fees or charges. We are confident our customers will enjoy Discovery HD Theater and National Geographic HD, in addition to the high-definition programming we already provide, and the new HD channels we plan to offer."

"Having made considerable investments in HD over many years, Discovery offers a vast collection of content to support our distributors' HD business-building efforts and bring viewers the best in HD picture quality and sound," said Clint Stinchcomb, executive vice president and general manager, Discovery Emerging Networks Group. "The launch with Cablevision comes at a particularly opportune time as we premiere Planet Earth, one of our most ambitious HD events ever. We're very pleased that this groundbreaking series will be one of the first programs our new Cablevision viewers will see." "National Geographic is synonymous with spectacular imagery, whether emanating from the bottom of the sea, the most remote rainforest, or the most fascinating cultures anywhere on the planet." said Laureen Ong, President, National Geographic Channel. "NGC HD amplifies the immersive visual experience that continues to draw more viewers to the network every day. We're pleased to join the leading lineup of HD networks that Cablevision is offering its customers." Discovery HD Theater was the first 24-hour high-definition network to broadcast its content in brilliant 1080i and 5.1 digital Surround Sound. A standalone HD network from the Discovery Channel, Discovery HD Theater features high-definition programming in virtually all categories of entertainment from Discovery's family of networks, including wildlife, nature, travel, science, history, geography and more. Discovery HD Theater is committed to bringing viewers top-tier, original HD event programs such as Discovery Atlas HD and Planet Earth, as well as captivating series including Sunrise Earth, Destination HD, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die and Risk Takers. National Geographic Channel HD, a simulcast of the six-year-old National Geographic Channel, is the #1 most requested HD channel over the past two years according to Beta Brand Research and showcases such programs as Galapagos, a three-hour special that is the first in-depth, full access film made in over 20 years about the islands and their wondrous array of wildlife.

Favorite original series include Naked Science, MegaStructures, Seconds From Disaster, and Explorer- all presented in stunning HD picture quality and sound. For iO customers with high-definition television sets, Cablevision offers HD-capable converter boxes at no additional cost over the standard box rental fee. In addition to High-definition feeds of premium movie networks are available to all customers who subscribe to the standard-definition version of the networks. High-definition video on demand movie titles are available anytime for $4.95 each, which includes full control over the viewing experience with the ability to pause, fast-forward and rewind. With nearly 2.5 million iO customers, more than 78 percent of Cablevision's cable customers are iO digital cable customers, the highest digital penetration in the nation. iO offers customers access to more than 240 channels, including 50 premium movie channels, 45 channels of commercial- free digital music, more than 1,400 titles available on demand at all times, an interactive programming guide, 23 high-definition programming services and groundbreaking interactive television applications including News 12 Interactive, and subscription games packages.

SOURCE: PRNEWSWIRE

FIRST BLU RAY TITLE RELEASED WITH BLU RAY JAVA ENVIRONMENT

Dragon's Lair Coming to Blu-ray Disc* in True 1080p HD . Fully interactive on Sony PlayStation 3* and Blu-ray* Movie Players

GORMLEY, Ontario, March 26 /PRNewswire/ -- High Definition gaming has arrived! Dragon's Lair continues to revolutionize the video-game industry by becoming the first game title ever to be released for the Blu-ray* Disc High Definition format using BD-J. An instant hit in its 1983 arcade debut, Dragon's Lair has now been digitally restored and enhanced with an all-new 5.1 surround sound mix. The video has been transferred directly from the original film and cleaned
frame by frame by Digital Leisure and authoring studio Infinite HD, creating a truly vibrant image. In addition, Dragon's Lair is the first release to be authored in the Blu-ray Java environment, or BD-J, an advanced format that allows users to enjoy a fully arcade-authentic
experience. "I've seen the newly restored footage and it just looks amazing" says Don Bluth, original creator of Dragon's Lair. "It looks even better than I can remember. The visuals, the 5.1 surround sound audio, all I can say is 'Wow!' Now a whole new generation can enjoy Dragon's Lair all over again."

All the special features on the disc are in full 1080p HD, including brand-new interviews with creators Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and Rick Dyer, and even a full-length visual commentary of the game. Digital Leisure plans to follow up Dragon's Lair Blu-ray with the release of Space Ace and Dragon's Lair II: Time Warp in the Blu-ray format. Dragon's Lair Blu-ray will be available April 9th at software and movie retailers as well as online at http://www.digitalleisure.com. Digital Leisure is a leading publisher of interactive video-based
titles. The company remasters video-intensive titles that benefit from the superior video and audio quality of DVD and the newest High Definition formats.

SOURCE: PRNEWSWIRE.

NBC NIGHTLY NEWS IN HD TONIGHT

Starting tonight, the NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams will be shown in High Definition. Field footage will still be shot in standard definition much as ABC has been doing with their local news programming. Dateline and MSNBC are set to follow in it's footsteps in 2008 although no announcements or dates have been given.

This news may seem very trivial, but as our world turns, these events seems to pass us by without too much attention, then it eventually becomes the norm. In 5 years time, most mainstream programming will be in HD. So now's a good time to acknowledge the changes, as later on, we will reflect and remember the old days when the news was broadcasted in standard definition.

DISCOVERY PLANET EARTH IN HD TODAY

Don't forget, if you have Discovery HD, tonight 8pm e/p Planet Earth debuts in High Definition. Imagine this compressed video in pristine High Definition:

Seattle Mariners Games Now Available in Super Clear High Definition Format on FSN HD

All of FSN's Mariners home telecasts and six road games to be shown on Channel 664, making it the largest package of Mariners games in HD ever available to Comcast customers.

SEATTLE, March 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Comcast (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) and FSN Northwest today announced that all of FSN's Seattle Mariners home telecasts and six road games will be available to Comcast customers in super clear high definition format (HDTV), beginning with the Mariners home opener April 2nd against the Oakland Athletics.

HDTV technology provides video and audio that is clearer, sharper and more vibrant than previous video transmission systems. The service is available for customers with an HDTV-capable television set utilizing an HD-enabled digital cable set-top box provided by Comcast. "Our customers tell us that nothing beats watching a Mariners game in person, but they say watching their favorite team in high definition from the comfort of their living room comes pretty close; and, at least with high-definition, they don't have to pay for parking," said Tom Pierce, VP of Marketing and Sales for Comcast.

FSN is the leading provider of sports programming and production in the Northwest, providing viewers a minimum of 120 live events per year in high-definition featuring the Seattle Sonics, Seattle Mariners, Portland Trail Blazers and NCAA football and basketball.
"FSN is continuously looking for ways to enhance the local sports fans' viewing experience on our network and presenting such a significant package of Mariners games on FSN HD is certainly a tremendous example of that effort," said Mark Shuken, FSN Northwest Vice President and General Manager. "We are fortunate to work with progressive teams such as the
Mariners and are proud to partner with them to meet the evolving needs of our fans."

SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE PRNEWSWIRE

NAB 2007, LAS VEGAS, APRIL 14TH-19TH

If you're in the film industry or anything related, you will definitely want to check this out. The National Association of Broadcasters trade show is coming up in Las Vegas this year. Similar to the Consumer Electronics Show, the NAB exhibit covers consumer electronics but places focus on media and methods of broadcasting. As it includes HD, I cover it. Check out their site here for more information and registration.

"The World's Largest Electronic Media Show brings together more than 100,000 professionals and 1,400 exhibiting companies from 130 countries around the world. Year after year, it has become THE essential destination for anyone in electronic media who's looking for comprehensive education, inspiration and innovation.
Whether you're making the transition to HD, looking to invest in new technologies like IPTV and mobile video, seeking new tools to create content and build revenue streams, or just trying to stay ahead of the competition, NAB2007 is the place for you! It's the only show that brings together key audiences such as broadcasters, audio & video production professionals, enterprise users, content owners and distribution channels to form strategic partnerships, invest in advanced education and training, and create new innovations for entertainment, information, and enterprise communications. You'll find the top names in broadcasting, cable, Internet, video and audio production, and you'll see thousands of new products and services that will shape the face of the future. "

PRESS RELEASE: DLP HDTV Continues Market Leading Momentum into 2007

New Slim Form Factor Models, Consumer Demand for Full High Definition 1080p Resolution and Competitive Pricing Drove Increased Market share in 2006

DALLAS, March 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DLP(R) HDTVs, based on technology developed by Texas Instruments (TI) (NYSE: TXN), ranked number one in all 1080p HDTV sales for 2006 within the microdisplay category, according to data from leading U.S. consumer and retail information company, The NPD Group. Indicators point to another strong year for DLP with January 2007 statistics reporting DLP HDTVs leading with double the sales of 1080p over the nearest competitor in the same segment.

DLP's overall units sold in the highly competitive 50 inch and above HDTV arena experienced a year over year growth of 63% from December 2005 to December 2006, according to NPD's retail tracking service. This performance cemented DLP's position as the leader in the microdisplay category and advanced its position in the HDTV market overall.

In 2006, DLP sold more HDTVs at a screen size of 50 inch and greater than any other competing technology in the U.S. including plasma with 28.9% market share in units, according to NPD. In the HDTV 40-49 inch screen size space, DLP retained its advantage over other technologies by dominating in price per square inch. DLP led in sales of 1080p resolution microdisplay models in the U.S. during December, with 61.6% market share in units. More
than one quarter of all 1080p HDTV sales in the month of December were DLP models (27% overall market share in units). Total unit sales of 1080p with all technologies increased year over year by an increase of almost seven times from December 2005 to December 2006, demonstrating growing consumer demand.

DLP's growth was driven by several factors including Samsung's introduction of slim cabinet models in October 2006; increased consumer demand for full high definition 1080p resolution; and competitive price points. The 2007 DLP HDTVs from Samsung include a complete line-up of slim DLP HDTV offerings and great cabinet styling, with other leading manufacturers also expected to introduce slim models in the future. Slim DLP HDTVs provide a bigger screen in a smaller space than competing technologies while offering the thinnest free standing display at their screen size, at approximately half the weight of plasma TVs. The new slim form factor expands display options to include easy shelf mounting.

TI DLP Products expanded its collaborative marketing efforts with manufacturing customers in 2006, which when combined with the DLP national advertising campaign, resulted in achieving the highest awareness scores experienced by DLP among potential HDTV buyers. Marketing and advertising efforts included television campaigns, a major sponsorship with NASCAR and
retail programs.

"We're extremely pleased by the progress DLP has made during the past year and see further growth in 2007, thanks in large part to the innovations of our customers and our supporting brand and marketing efforts," said Adam Kunzman, business manager, DLP HDTV Products, Texas Instruments. "We expect to see a tenfold increase in the number of slim form factor models offered to consumers by DLP customers in 2007, which will continue to be a stabilizing force for DLP in the 40-49 inch space. This expansion of DLP product lines and innovations such as solid state LED illumination, combined with the increasing demand for 1080p quality, provide a great environment for DLP market share to grow."

"DLP was successful in claiming a significant amount of market share in 2006, particularly in the larger screen sizes, 50 inches and above" said Stephen Baker, vice president, industry analysis, The NPD Group. "Even during the holiday season when the so-called 'flat-screen war' was at its
peak for the year, DLP proved to be a viable contender against not only other microdisplays, but also against plasma and LCD."

SOURCE: PR NEWSWIRE

EXCLUSIVE SPIDERMAN 3 HD FOOTAGE DURING HEROES EPISODE & 7 MINUTES FOOTAGE AT NBC.COM, MARCH 5TH ONLY!

CULVER CITY, Calif. and BURBANK, Calif., March 1-- As Peter Parker's Aunt May once said, there's a hero in all of us. That will be true as Monday, March 5, becomes a night of heroes -- Columbia Pictures, in anticipation of the release of Spider-Man(TM) 3 on May 4, will air an exclusive one-minute clip from the film during the broadcast of a cliffhanger episode of NBC's top-rated new show "Heroes," then premiere seven and one half minutes from the film online, exclusively on NBC.com, for 24 hours.

As "Heroes" moves towards the exciting conclusion of its second storyarc of its first season, viewers of the show and Spider-Man fans will get alook at Spider-Man(TM) 3 with a brand-new 60-second clip from the movie that contains a cliffhanger of its own. Then, immediately following the broadcast, Web-crawling viewers and movie goers can go online to catch the premiere of a revealing seven and one half minute film sequence that will have viewers on the edge of their seats as it is streamed in highdefinition at NBC.com.

'Heroes' and Spider-Man both share a common theme: everyday people and how they deal with finding themselves in extraordinary circumstances," saidValerie Van Galder, President of Domestic Marketing for the ColumbiaTriStar Motion Picture Group. "Because of that, this is a great programming marriage -- it makes for a night of event television and a rare opportunityto see a scene from one of the summer's most highly anticipated movies. Wecouldn't be more excited to unveil seven and one half minutes of the movieto help whet the appetites of Spider-Man fans everywhere."

"We're so pleased to be teaming up with Columbia Pictures to present our audience with such an exciting event," said Vivi Zigler, Executive VicePresident, NBC Digital Entertainment and New Media. "This partnership not only gives our users an exclusive sneak-peek at Spider-Man(TM) 3 -- a film they will undoubtedly want to see -- but also increases the richness oftheir experience by allowing them to stream it in HD, a first for NBC.com."

The one-minute Spider-Man(TM) 3 clip will drive viewers to NBC.com to see the exclusive seven and one half minute scene from the movie, which is NBC.com's first-ever HD-streamed presentation, on any platform. The event will be promoted with ads in USA Today, Los Angeles Times, New York Times,and TV Guide, as well as online and on the radio. It will also be heavily promoted on NBC. Columbia Pictures' Spider-Man(TM) 3 reunites the cast and film makers from the first two blockbuster adventures for a web of vengeance, love, and forgiveness that will transport worldwide audiences to thrilling newheights on May 4, 2007.

Source: Columbia pictures & Press Release

SHARP AQUOS D92U SPECS ARE HERE

I've been in contact with Sharp USA about the upcoming D92U series. As I've mentioned before, this was the best display screen I saw at CES 2007. The only thing better was the $32,000 Sony 70" XBR, so we won't count that! I've had hundreds of hits requesting info on the D92U series alone, so if you want it, leave a post with your email address and I'll get it to you.

The D92U should be trickling into retail stores around April, available in 42",46" and 52" sizes. But as a side note, Sharp have not demo'd this display with film, or animation based material yet, so we really will have to wait for a review on this, but as it stands the demo material was jaw-dropping, this could be the one to beat!

Update: Here are some pics I took off the D92U 46" and 52" at CES 2007 in Las Vegas. If you want a high res image of it, free subscribers, shoot me an email and I'll get it to you.

Update 3/9/2007: It has been confirmed that banding is still an issue on this Aquos series. Looks like Sharp are neither listening to consumer feedback nor learning from their mistakes on older models. If you can put up with the banding or if it just doesn't bother you like it does to purists, this still makes for a great LCD performer. But I would wait for them to drop the premium pricing.



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$599 BLU-RAY BDP-S300 PLAYER DUE SOON FROM SONY!

Sony plans to release the BDP-S300 Blu-ray player with a suggested price of $599, that's almost half the price of the current $999 BDP-S1 Blu-ray player. Sony claims that it will have the same capabilities of the current player but will be more compact to resemble current DVD players.

Features include DVD upconversion up to 1080p and 24 frames per second output on Blu-ray discs, support for standard audio CDs, decoding of Dolby Digital Plus (although no support for Dolby TrueHD or DTS HD-Master format),and support for the xvYCC color space which suggests HDMI 1.3, but has not been confirmed as yet.

Expected ship date is around the end of the 3rd quarter 2007. In additon, the company claims that by year end they expect their Blu-Ray player to drop even more to the $299-$399 price range in a move to drive sales up and HD-DVD out.

Update: The $299-$399 Blu-Ray player pricing towared the end of the year was a misquote from the Sony rep "Stan Glasgow." Apparently what he meant was that the "$299 price would be the tipping point where the average consumer would start to consider buying a Blu-ray player."

PRESS RELEASE: Silicon Image Supplies Samsung With HDMI(TM) 1.3 Transmitter for Blu-ray Disc Player and HDMI 1.3 Receiver and Switches for HDTVs

VastLane(TM) HDMI 1.3 Transmitter, Receiver and Switches Enable Leading-Edge Video and Audio Capabilities for Samsung's New Blu-ray Disc Player and HDTVs.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Jan. 31 -- Silicon Image,Inc. (Nasdaq: SIMG), the leader in semiconductors for the secure storage, distribution and presentation of high-definition content, today announced that Samsung Electronics has selected the VastLane(TM) SiI9134 HighDefinition Multimedia Interface(TM) (HDMI(TM)) transmitter chip for itsBD-P1200 Blu-ray Disc player and the VastLane(TM) SiI9125 HDMI receiverchip for its new plasma, LCD and DLP HDTVs. In addition, Samsung selected the new VastLane HDMI 1.3 switches, SiI9181 and SiI9185, for its new HDTVs. Samsung launched the new HDMI 1.3-enabled Blu-ray player and HDTVs at the2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Silicon Image was the first to market with the most advanced HDMI 1.3 transmitters and receivers. The VastLane SiI9134 is an advanced HDMI 1.3transmitter that enables Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD and DVD players and recorders to transmit Deep Color(TM) content for the highest-quality imagefor the consumer. The SiI9134 supports up to 1080p resolution at 60Hz and12-bit color depth, and supports Dolby(R) True HD and DTS-HD high bit-rateaudio formats to deliver a rich digital video and audio experience. The new Samsung BD-P1200 Blu-ray Disc player adds support for HDMIversion 1.3 by using the SiI9134 transmitter. Among other features of HDMI1.3, the new BD-P1200 player incorporates Consumer Electronics Control(CEC) functionality, which enables a single remote control unit to operate the player, TV and other audio/video (A/V) products. With the BD-PP1200model's HDMI connections, consumers will get superior A/V quality, with incredible ease and convenience of use. The new Samsung plasma, DLP and LCD HDTVs add support for HDMI version1.3 through the SiI9125 receiver and the SiI9181 and SiI9185 HDMI 1.3 switches. More and more source devices with HDMI 1.3 support are appearing on the market, including Blu-ray players and the PlayStation 3 from Sony. The new Samsung HDMI 1.3-enabled HDTVs allow consumers to enjoy the highest resolution video and audio capabilities enabled by those source devices.

At CES 2007, Silicon Image announced the new VastLane SiI9125 receiver, designed for use in HDTVs. The SiI9125 HDMI receiver enables HDTVs todisplay Deep Color content transmitted by a new generation of consumer products, such as the Sony PlayStation 3 and high-definition DVD players. It supports HDMI 1.3 functionality and provides HDTV manufacturers with a cost effective means of implementing dual HDMI inputs for simultaneous connection of multiple HDMI source devices, such as a DVD player and a set-top box to an HDTV. This enables HDTVs to display Deep Color content inbillions of colors with unprecedented vividness and accuracy. The built-in High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) decryption engine securesthe digital link to enable transmission of high-definition video and audio. SiI9125 supports both Super Audio-CD and DVD Audio, including 7.1-surround audio at 192 kilohertz (kHz) and stereo audio at 192 kHz. Also at CES 2007, Silicon Image unveiled the first generation of its family of VastLane HDMI 1.3 switches. The new HDMI 1.3 switches enable multiple HDMI source devices to connect to HDTVs with frequency of operation up to 225MHz, allowing consumers to enjoy Deep Color content. Based on the HDMI 1.3 specifications, SiI9181 and SiI9185 are advanced HDMI1.3 switches that enable manufacturers of HDTVs to provide a cost effective method of adding additional HDMI ports to the latest HDTVs. The SiI9181 andSiI9185 provide a low cost method of transmitting high-definition digital audio and video, giving consumers a truly all-digital experience. New integrated features help lower system cost and provide enhanced features, such as built- in support for the Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) functionality and integrated Extended Display Identification Data Random Access Memory (EDID RAM).

The HDMI 1.3 specification more than doubles HDMI's bandwidth and adds support for Deep Color technology, a broader color space, new digital audio formats and automatic audio/video synching capability ("lip sync"). HDMI1.3 supports 10-bit, 12-bit and 16-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths, up from the 8- bit depths in previous versions of the HDMI specification. "HDMI 1.3 is gaining traction in the marketplace, with the support of top-tier HD DVD and Blu-ray player manufacturers as well as TV makers,"said Dale Zimmerman, vice president of marketing at Silicon Image. "We are pleased that Samsung has chosen the Silicon Image transmitter, receiver and HDMI 1.3 switches to unleash the full potential of the new Blu-ray Disc standard and latest generation HDTVs. As consumers become more demanding about HDTV performance and image quality, HDMI 1.3 support stands out as a clear market differentiator." Silicon Image offers one of the most robust and comprehensively tested technology platforms in the consumer electronics industry. Silicon Image'sexperience associated with shipping more than 100 million HDMI/HDCP andDVI/HDCP semi conductor solutions helps to significantly improve cross product interoperability. Silicon Image implements HDCP using its own copyrighted firmware stack, and performs a triple validation process in the programming of its HDCP keys to prevent duplicate key programming, selective authentication problems and corruptions. This validation, complemented by one of the most advanced and thorough testing programs through Simplay Labs, allows OEMs to virtually eliminate issues with cross platform compatibility. The Simplay HD Testing Program has verified the SiI9134, SiI9125,SiI9181 and the SiI9185 for HDMI 1.3 compatibility. The Simplay Program provides compatibility testing for high definition (HD) consumer electronics devices such as HDTVs, set-top boxes, audio/video (A/V)receivers and DVD players, helping manufacturers to achieve compatibilityand deliver the highest-quality HDTV experience to consumers.

The Blu-ray next-generation optical disc format was created by a group of the world's top consumer electronics companies, including Samsung. The format is intended to meet consumer demand for playing and recording high-definition content, which far surpasses the video quality DVD can handle. About HDMI. HDMI is the first and only consumer electronics industry-supported,uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. By delivering crystal-clear, all-digital audio and video via a single cable, HDMI dramatically simplifies cabling and helps provide consumers with the highest-quality home theater experience. HDMI provides an interface betweenany type of audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, or A/Vreceiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television(DTV), over a single cable. About Silicon Image, Inc. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Silicon Image, Inc. is a leader in driving the architecture and semiconductor implementations for the secure storage, distribution and presentation of high-definition content in the consumer electronics and personal computing markets. Silicon Image createsand drives industry standards for digital content delivery such as DVI, HDMI(TM) and Serial ATA (SATA), leveraging partnerships with global leaders in the consumer electronics and personal computing markets to meet the growing digital content needs of consumers worldwide. With a proven track record of improving cross-product interoperability, Silicon Image has shipped more than 100 million HDMI/HDCP and DVI/HDCP semiconductor solutions and offers one of the most robust and comprehensively tested technology platforms in the consumer electronics industry through the Simplay HD(TM) Testing Program of Simplay Labs. Simplay Labs, LLC, awholly-owned subsidiary of Silicon Image, is a leading provider of testing technologies, tools and services for high-definition consumer electronics devices such as HDTVs, set-top boxes, audio/video receivers and DVD players, helping manufacturers to achieve compatibility and deliver the highest-quality HDTV experience to consumers.

Silicon Image is the leading provider of semiconductor intellectual property solutions for high-definition multimedia and data storage applications. For more information, please visit http://www.siliconimage.com. NOTE: HDMI(TM) and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks;or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing, LLC in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of federal securities regulations. These forward-looking statements include statements related to the features, functionality and benefits of Silicon Image's VastLane SiI 9134 HDMI transmitter, its VastLane SiI 9125receiver, its SiI9181 and SiI9185 HDMI 1.3 switches and products from other companies, the anticipated benefits of integration of Silicon Imageproducts with those from other companies, the benefits, features and capabilities of the HDMI standard, the anticipated growth, market acceptance and consumer demand for the HDMI specification and HDMI products, and the role of Silicon Image in meeting such anticipated growthand consumer demand. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including those described from time to time in Silicon Image's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those anticipatedby these forward-looking statements. In particular, the features,functionality and benefits of Silicon Image's VastLane SiI 9134 HDMItransmitter, its VastLane SiI 9125 receiver and its SiI9181 and SiI9185 HDMI 1.3 switches and products from other companies, the anticipated benefits of integration of Silicon Image products with those from other companies, the benefits, features and capabilities of the HDMI standard,the anticipated growth, market acceptance and consumer demand for the HDMI specification and HDMI products, and the role of Silicon Image in meeting such anticipated growth and consumer demand may differ materially from what is currently anticipated. In addition, see the Risk Factors section of the most recent Form 10-K or Form 10-Q filed by Silicon Image with the SEC. Silicon Image assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained in this press release.

SOURCE: Silicon Image, Inc. & Press Release

JUDGE RULES AGAINST CANON FOR USE OF SED HDTV TECHNOLOGY

Canon licensed the use of surface-conduction electron-emitter displays (or SED) from Nano-Proprietary Inc., in 1999 for $5.6M. This was the much touted technology that claims to have high end CRT picture performance in a large flat panel display. It is supposed to take flat-screens to the next level. Deep blacks, amazing contrast, realistic colors, and an overall amazing picture on a 55+" screen.

When Canon took on a partner, Toshiba, as a joint venture, Nano-Proprietary saw this as a breach of licensing agreeement and a roundabout way for Canon to sub-license the technology. On December 1st 2006, NPinc. terminated the agreement. On Saturday 24th February 2007 (yesterday), U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks of Austin ruled in favor of NPinc. making their termination of the agreement official.

There has been no comment from Canon as yet, but NPinc. have made it clear that they own the technology and the patents, and any manufacturer interested in using the technology will have to license it through them. We don't know how this will turn out. Samsung who manufacture every type of display under the sun, have previously expressed interest in SED technology.

What it comes down to is long term profitability. The claim was that SED would be cheaper to manufacture than LCD and outperform it tenfold. If NPinc. don't structure their licensing to be profitable for manufactuers, sadly we may not see SED surface. This is only a possible outcome, but the effects of this ruling remains to be seen. Of course, I'll keep you posted on any further developments as this is a very big and important blow to HDTV progression as a whole.