Pioneer launched their 2008 CES with an impressive press conference today (Sunday 6th).
The major subjects of choice were new in-car technology and not one, but two concept plasma screens. Although it was stressed that these concepts would remain just that through 2008, there is no denying that the promises made to the hundreds of press gathered here today, are nothing short of stunning!
First is the promise of the worlds thinnest plasma screen, just 9mm thick! This combined with a picture frame bevel should mean that your TV no longer hangs on the wall, but rather it floats.
The second claim regarding the new concept Kuro screens was one that had most of us falling off our chairs! Say goodbye to the old hat contrast ratio figures. Pioneer claims to have reached the holy grain of non emissive black levels, yes thats right, when the screen goes black-even in a total black out environment- you see nothing but black. Claims are that you will not see any glow from this set, impressive claims indeed.
Of course none of these concepts were present at the press gathering, but you can bet on 21 that I will be first in the queues tomorrow to witness it in the flesh!
Other items of note are the possible introductions of Generation 9 screens in the future and although not officially announced today, I have also put my money on a possible unveiling of a front projection device. Stay tuned as we interview the key personnel tomorrow.