By James Wells in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS: Sony launched a 70-inch full high definition Bravia LCD television and demonstrated an 82-inch prototype which also features 1080p resolution, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week.

Sony’s Bravia flat panel range previously comprised 16 models ranging from 23 to 52 inches in size.

According to Sony Electronics’ Home Products Division senior vice president, Randy Waynick, the 70-inch Bravia model features a new backlighting system and contrast ratio enhancements as well as three HDMI inputs for 1080p connectivity with a Blu-ray Disc (BD) player, HD DVD player, hybrid unit or PlayStation3.

Sony also previewed a prototype 82-inch LCD Bravia along with a prototype 55-inch SXRD Grand WEGA rear projection micro display television, which features a new laser light engine technology that enhances colour uniformity and brightness.

To complement the high definition products, Sony also unveiled new Blu-ray drive products including a Vaio-branded home server called the XL3 Digital Living System which features a Blu-ray drive to record and store high definition television. Sony also announced the launch of two new standalone Blu-ray players.