Ultra HD TVs that offer four times the resolution of full HD TVs are likely to become more affordable in India this festival season, with local brand Videocon all set to hit the market.
At present, Ultra HDTVs, such as the Sony XBR-84X900 (Rs 16 lakh) cost more than eight times what a similar full HD TV would, and are considered to be outside even the enthusiast market.
Videocon’s entry is likely to expand the Ultra HDTV TV market in India by slashing the price. The company, owned by Venugopal Dhoot, has a reputation for offering high-end technology at affordable prices.
The TV, which will have a resolution of 2160 (4k) pixels horizontally, will come with a new set-top-box-free digital broadcasting technology called DDB or Digital Direct Broadcast. DDB is expected to help TV owners directly tap into DDB signals without the need for a set top box.
It is not clear whether the DDB technology deployed in Videocon TVs will be immediately compatible with Videcon’s DTH service, or whether the technology implementation is open enough to allow other providers like Tata Sky to take advantage of the format.
Videocon said the stabilization of the Rupee in recent weeks has allowed the company greater control over costs, helping it offer better discount schemes and offers.
“Videocon witnessed a positive response from the market as the festive season sets in, garnering a growth of 15% over the last year during the Onam season in Kerala whereas Ganesh Chaturthi witnessed a growth of 20% in Maharashtra,” the company said. “It comes as a huge boost as the market was stagnant for most part of the year on account of devaluation of Rupee and rising oil prices.”
The company said it is aiming for a double digit growth with a blend of new product launches and consumer offers.