Samsung Releases New 3D Plasmas with EA

In March, Samsung Electronics has released a couple of 3D PDP TVs in Korea this week in a partnership with Electronic Arts (EA). This is a world first, and partnering with the world’s largest game content provider isn't a bad way to debut the technology. Samsung stated in a report that the move reflects its ambitious strategy to take the lead in the 3D contents market as more and more consumers seek easy-to-use 3D home entertainment.

The retail price for the 42-inch TV is priced (in Korea) for just under $1,900 while the 50-inch model will sell for just under $2,700.

The 50-inch "PAVV Cannes 450" model is featured with the industry's highest 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio (which they are dubbing "Mega Contrast" and can easily revive a deep black color thanks to the cutting-edge cell light control technology, according to the company. The display is not spec'd for 1080p, that being reserved for separate the 50-inch PAVV Cannes 550 model which will release in March at a cost of around $4,200. From what we could round up, the new features of the 3D sets include:

• DNIe Plus (Motion Optimizer, Contrast Enhancer, Detail Enhancer, Color Optimizer)
• Greater cell light control for deeper blacks (actually lowers blacks ratther than increasing whites for more true dynamic range)
  
• "Ultra Daylight" mode for up to 40% more contrast
• "True" 18-bit internal color processing support
• Intelligent power saving for a 50% greater efficiency
• Down-firing hidden speakers
• 1080p/24Hz input support via HDMI
  

"Users could see the latest generation of Hollywood 3D movies by wearing a designated eyewear and play 3D games by just connecting 3D-only software to PCs," a Samsung spokesperson said on Thursday.

The product essentially turns 3D television into a familiar 'plug-and-play' approach that works with any compatible PC output. Since there are no difficult interfaces to manage, Samsung seems to have a way to truly deliver on the promise of 3D gaming. With EA on board, this is made even more likely to hit the mainstream sooner than later in the US markets.

The deal comes as EA has been seeking a strategic partnership with a flat screen TV maker as the company needs to secure a new "growth engine" in the online gaming industry. Still, according to the online reports, EA is still in development of much of the required compatible software titles, stating "We are engaged in final talks to introduce 3D contents that fit the televisions."

We hope they hurry up.