Samsung introduced at CES 2008 its new line of Series
6 and Series 7 LCD high-definition televisions. Besides the usual features
of a 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rates and 4ms response times, Samsung was
proud to point out that its full line (LN40A650T, LN46A650T, LN52A650T,
LN40A750T, LN46A750T, and LN52A750T) will feature a “Touch of Color” design that
adds a hint of amber color naturally blended into Samsung's piano black bezel
frame.
With all the excitement of a colored bezel, Samsung may have
forgotten to mention in its press release that its upcoming high-end LCD HDTVs
will come packed with video games. Several models will come with content
preloaded into the set’s built-in flash memory, some of which will be games.
Tim Baxter, executive vice president of Samsung, told the AP that simple
games such as Sudoku will be bundled with televisions. Other programs
potentially preloaded on the TV include artwork (for use as a digital picture
frame), screensavers, fitness programs and recipes.
"If you think about the TV experience, it has
historically been a lean-back experience," Baxter said, contrasting it to
the "lean forward" experience of the PC. "We think there are
opportunities to bring very relevant parts of that experience into the living
room."
Users will also be able to add new programs and artwork by
transferring them from the PC to a flash drive, which can interface with the
set’s USB slot.
Furthermore, the TV’s Ethernet port can also pave the way
for more content options, including news, weather, sports and stocks
information supplied by USA Today in a picture-in-picture window.
Samsung’s Series 6 LCD HDTVs will be available starting this
March, with the Series 7 hitting in May.