Panasonic demonstrated how it is working on pushing the boundaries of TV with two prototype TVs at IFA.

One prototype, codenamed “MegaCon” for Mega Contrast, uses dual LCD layers to deliver black performance which rivals that of an OLED TV whilst also being capable of high brightness too.

The second prototype is a transparent OLED, the result of a conceptual research project by Panasonic and Vitra, shows how Panasonic is working on better integrating electronic devices into living spaces by having them melt into the background when not in use.

The “MegaCon” Dual Panel LCD monitor prototype has been developed in-house using a Panasonic manufactured module. It uses a high performance 4K outer panel with a monochrome inner panel to modulate the direct LED backlight, thus delivering pixel-level dimming and a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 which is unheard of for LCD panels. In terms of brightness it can hold a full field peak brightness of 1,000 nits indefinitely, whilst also covering 99 per cent of the DCI P3 colour standard.

Furthermore, unlike other similar dual panel LCD displays, based on feedback from the Hollywood community it also features a very wide viewing angle without any loss of colour fidelity and uses unique Panasonic technology to eliminate any parallax effect between the dual panels.

Panasonic also exhibited a transparent OLED concept display.

The transparent OLED display, which resembles a glass cabinet, is crafted from a wooden finish frame holding what appears to be a pane of glass. As such it blends naturally into any contemporary living space. However, the moment the device is switched on, it transforms into a vivid OLED display.

The transparent OLED is the result of a conceptual research project by Panasonic and Vitra. Through a series of workshops Vitra provided expertise in furniture and space design which was combined with Panasonic’s focus on using advanced technologies to improve lives.

Designed by Scandinavian-based designer, Daniel Rybakken, and Panasonic Design Kyoto, the OLED display consists of materials such as wood, metal and glass. The technological components are cleverly concealed within the wooden finish frame, which doubles as a stand for the device. A lightning element, which enhances the viewing and ambient experience, is also directly and unobtrusively housed within the frame.

Home AV

Panasonic has also on display the SC-HTB900 high-end Dolby Atmos soundbars that also blend with a TV's design to the 4K Blu-ray players that support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.

Technics has on display a wide line-up of products, including the Ottava S SC-C30 Chromecast built-in compact stereo system and the latest model of Technics' first built-in stereo headphones, EAH-TZ700 (to be released in November 2019 in Europe). The best acoustic quality was pursued to produce sounds that reverberate and are free from distortion for the EAH-TZ700 by incorporating a newly developed driver that takes advantage of the characteristics of magnetic fluid. The line-up will also include the new EAH-DJ1200 DJ style headphones.