LG Says the World's First 4K OLED TVs Will Hit Shelves Soon

Today, LG Electronics announced that its first 4K OLED TVs will soon be available for pre-order on the Korean market. The press announcement also promises that availability in key North American and European markets will follow "soon after."

OLED TVs are cutting-edge tech, producing far superior picture quality than other screen technologies like LCD and plasma. OLED displays allow for deeper black levels, expanded color range, huge viewing angles, and razor-thin design.

The first OLED models from both LG and Samsung went on sale a year ago, and 4K OLED prototypes have popped up at trade shows, but there has never been an ultra-high-definition OLED TV available for purchase until now.

LG's two anticipated displays will ship in 77- and 65-inch sizes, with model names 77EG9700 and 65EC9700, respectively. Like the earlier EC9300 OLED TV, the new models will also feature curved designs and the company's stylish leaf-shaped silver stands. LG notes that both TVs are wall mountable, and in addition to LG's premium webOS smart platform, they'll wield Harman Kardon multi-channel surround sound.

Interested American shoppers will of course be wondering when these 4K OLED TVs will be hitting our shelves, and what they might cost.

Tim Alessi, LG's head of new product development, commented that, "LG is reinforcing the commitment made at CES, and confirmed throughout the year, to bring an Ultra HD OLED TV to market in Q3/Q4 of 2014. As it pertains to the U.S. market, pricing and availability on our new 65- and 77-inch models have not yet been announced."

Still, some recent numbers could help put things in perspective. In 2013, 55-inch OLED TVs went on sale for well in excess of $10,000, but just weeks ago LG's 55-inch EC9300 OLED television was selling for just $3,500.

Source: LG Electronics