Vizio has launched the TruLED XVT line of high-definition TVs as the number 2 LCD TV maker in the U.S. market continues to aim for affordable, quality products.
The new high-end XVT line will include HDTVs ranging in size from 32" up to 55", and will support Wi-Fi, Internet apps and widgets. The new line will allow TV owners to use Bluetooth-powered QWERTY remotes to navigate the system and access entertainment.
The two lower-end XVT models -- a 32" model ($699) and 37" ($899) model -- all models in the new line will feature 120Hz smooth motion, 1 million to 1 contrast ratio, and use TruSurround HD and TruVolume.
Prices range from $699 up to $2,199 for the 55" TruLED model.
Vizio is known for its lower-priced, competitive products that snuck up on the industry and took Samsung, Sony, LG, and other companies by surprise. The company is currently locked into a battle in the LCD TV market with Samsung, which remains the No. 1 company with 19.7 percent. Vizio, which was No. 1 before Samsung's rise, isn't far behind with 18.9 percent of the U.S. LCD TV market.
I applaud Vizio for its past work in the industry, but I feel rather underwhelmed with the TruLED XVT line of TVs. The 55" model is $2200 -- a rather surprising amount for HDTVs that size -- and offers features already commonly available in rival TVs. Vizio may be preparing for its upcoming 3D push, but I wonder if this launch was the right stepping stone.
