Even though Samsung is moving away from its LCD business, it’s still releasing a whole range of new TVs this year. Details on prices and availability have been released, and it looks like they’re going to cost more than originally though.
Samsung’s 2012 LED TV lineup is led by the ES800 series, which comes in 46′ to 65′ models and range from $2.999.99 to $5,099.99. While the plasmas are headlines by the E8000 series, which will be available in 51′ to 64′ and cost between $2,199.99 and $3,949.99 when they’re out later this month. All TVs in the ES8000, E8000 and the cheaper ES7500 series will come with a host of features, including; facial recognition and voice and gesture control that let you operate the sets by waving your hands or talking to the TV. Judging by reviews, this feature is more of a show piece than a practical control method. Fortunately, these premium sets do come with a traditional remote and the new Smart Touch remote that has a microphone and a touchpad which can be used to work through the menus as well as the TV’s WebKit internet browser.
These sets come with dual processors that allow seamless movement through the menus and also allowing for a multitasking feature that lets you switch back and forth to previously used apps or channels. However, this feature will work only with the TV’s own tuner, and not a cable box. If you’re willing to shell out for the high end sets, Samsung promises that your TV will be kept up-to-date for the next four years with Smart Evolution packs that will add on whatever features future models will have.
