LG launches Freeview playback TVs

LG has announced the worldwide launch of a range of flat-screen TVs with upgraded built-in digital video recorders at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin.

The LT75 (LCD) and PT85 (plasma) series of Freeview playback TVs include 160GB of storage, and dual tuners which allow viewers to watch one programme while recording another.

"At LG we strive to develop new technologies that make TVs sleeker and smarter," said James Atkins, marketing manager for LG brown goods.

"Our Freeview playback TVs have made it far easier to use DVRs by eliminating the need to connect yet another external box to the TV and learn to use it."

Manufacturers such as Sharp have already released TVs with built-in data storage for recording, but LG claimed that its models are the first to be Freeview Playback certified under the UK DTV Services standard.

The televisions can also record from most cable and satellite set-top boxes and include HDMI, composite, S-video and Scart inputs.

An LG spokesman told vnunet.com that the LT75 series in particular is "aimed primarily at the family market, for instance allowing children to watch their favourite shows in the evening while allowing the parents to record their programmes to watch later on".

All the models also include LG's Intelligent Eye feature, which constantly monitors the ambient lighting in the room and automatically adjusts the contrast, colour and brightness.

The LT75 series is available in 32in, 37in and 42in models and the PT85 series is available in 42in and 50in models.

The plasma screens are available throughout Europe immediately and the LCD models will be available in the coming weeks.