The LG DP570MH device has reportedly been re-released to North American consumers, with the South Korean tech company deciding to add a DTV chip.
The DP570MH is a DVD player/monitor, using a 7-inch screen (480 x 234 resolution) with a DTV tuner, so owners can watch live television while they travel. The device also has a USB port, so owners can upload JPEGs and WMA tracks. The internal battery supports 4.5 hours of DVD playback and 2.5 hours of live TV streaming.
Since LG chose to use the LG2160A ATS-M/H DTV chip, it can also be used in Dell, Kia, Kenwood, and other products from different manufacturers.
LG expects the DH570MH to be available for around $250 once the final pricing settles.
LG is expected to show the newer version of its handheld terminal during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. LG currently owns the ATSC M/H mobile DTV standard patent, and plans to heavily promote the technology in 2010. Furthermore, LG is expected to show off several DTV mobile phones at CES, offering phone owners the ability to watch TV on their phones.
I don't have the urge to watch live TV on my mobile phone, or want a DVD/CD player with streaming capabilities, but I understand a market exists for these products. It should be interesting to see how many companies besides LG plan to show off similar devices at CES, as it's rare a company launches a product that other manufacturers are unfamiliar with.
