While the majority of us are enjoying (or dreaming of) brand new HDTV LCD or plasma displays to go along with our next-generation machines, a small group of companies are on the cusp of finalizing a technology that will make even the newest TV sets of today seem absolutely dim.

Australian company Arasor and US company Novalux demonstrated the world's first Laser Television. The mere incorporation of lasers in any product is cool enough, but the real benefits of putting laser technology into TVs could mean half the production cost, double the color range, and a three-quarters less power consumption when compared to the LCD and plasma TVs of today

“If you look at any screen today, the colour content is roughly about 30-35 per cent of what the eye can see,” said Novalux chief executive Jean-Michel Pelaprat. “But for the very first time with a Laser TV we'll be able to see 90 per cent of what the eye can see... All of a sudden what you see is a lifelike image on display.

Those who saw the demonstration noted that the Mitsubishi-built prototype appeared brighter and clearer than a comparable 50-inch plasma. The prototype was only 1080i capable, but 1080p sets should be ready in time for Laser TV's launch in late 2007.

There may be some confusion, however, as Laser TV technology is suited for projection (either front or rear) rather than flat-panel. Instead of being a completely brand new way to create an image, laser TV takes DLP projection to a level that's capable of surpassing that of plasma. As a result of its projection roots, Laser TVs will likely be slightly thicker than LCD and plasma.

We will focus on this exciting new technology in a future article. In the meantime, visit iTWire for additional notes on the laser TV presentation.