LG launches new lower-cost, webOS-connected OLED TV

LG has launched its first next-generation curved OLED TV in the US.

The new 55-inch screen – model 55EC9300 – will be available from US retailers, beginning with Best Buy, at a recommended price of US$3,499 (€2,618).

The new model is the third OLED TV that LG has released in 13 months. The latest version is 75% cheaper than the first-generation 55-inch OLED screen, on sale for US$14,999 a year ago.

The 55EC9300 is the first OLED TV to feature the new LG Smart TV+ webOS connected TV platform, designed to offer consumers fast transitions between broadcast TV, streaming services and external devices, with speeds similar to regular channel switching according to LG. The webOS platform also includes recommendation capabilities to help consumers sift through content options that include streaming services Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Instant Video and Hulu Plus.

“OLED TV represents a major breakthrough in display technology. And in the wake of plasma’s decline, it’s more important than ever to bring OLED to consumers who are looking for the highest level of contrast and color performance,” said Dave Vanderwaal, head of marketing at LG Electronics USA.

“As the worldwide leader in OLED TV, we’re proud to start to bring this amazing technology into the mainstream for US consumers. Due to manufacturing efficiencies, LG’s 55-inch curved OLED is now priced comparably to curved LED TVs on the market, but with improved picture quality benefits.”