Sharp will introduce into the Japanese market the "Internet AQUOS"which will enable users to view high-definition TV broadcasts as well as enjoy Internet and broadband broadcasts using only the remote controller for navigation.
Its new liquid crystal display TVs will let people watch TV programs, surf the Internet and view broadband video on a large, high-definition screen, all with the push of a remote-control button.
The Black Advanced Super View LCD panels promise high image quality for both TV and PC images thanks to its high 1200:1 contrast, wide 176° viewing angle, 6-msec response rate, and high-brightness Four-Wavelength Backlight system.
The Internet Aquos lineup, which goes on sale in late May, comprises 32-inch and 37-inch models.
Each size has two HDD options: a 500-gigabyte HDD that can record high-definition programs and a 250 GB version that can record only analog terrestrial broadcasts.
In addition to TV programs, digital photos and music can be downloaded and stored on the disks.
While PC makers are introducing TV-capable personal computers, the computers often have to boot before the TV function is available. The wait can be unacceptably long for someone who only wants to watch TV, Sharp said.
Further, if there is a computer malfunction, the TV feature could be disabled.
To prevent such inconveniences with an all-in-one computer, Sharp's Internet Aquos models have two separate hardware units--a TV and a computer.
The four models are expected to retail in Japan for about 350,000 yen to 550,000 yen. The company aims to sell 300,000 units by the end of March.