Using LCD and LED technologies.

At IFA 2019, Panasonic showed two extraordinary prototype TVs which demonstrate how it is working on pushing the boundaries of TV.

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, showed 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 1000 nits indefinitely, whilst also covering 99% of the DCI P3 colour standard.

Unlike other similar dual panel LCD displays, Panasonic said that based on feedback from the Hollywood community it also features a very wide viewing angle without any loss of colour fidelity. The technology also eliminates any parallax effect between the dual panels.

Panasonic also exhibited a transparent OLED concept display, which resembles a glass cabinet and 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.

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.

Panasonic’s stand was based around the concept of ‘A Better Life, A Better World’, and showcased a variety of products, ranging from audio and visual equipment to home appliances and beauty care products.

It also hosted an Home AV experience, from the sound of the SC-HTB900 high-end Dolby Atmos sound bars and 4K Blu-ray players that support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.

The Japanese brand also displayed a wide line-up including high-quality noise-cancelling headphones, and demonstrated the TMAX audio system series, which delivers ultraheavy bass.

For the Technics brand, products on display included Ottava S SC-C30 Chromecast built-in compact stereo system and Technics’ first built-in stereo headphones, EAH-TZ70.

Three models of the LUMIX S series camera range were launched, including the new LUMIX S1H full-frame mirrorless camera with cinema-quality video.

In personal care, Panasonic introduced beauty, grooming and oral care products. The portfolio includes the new ES-LV97 shaver, which utilises five ‘Japanese sword technology’ blades.

In small kitchen appliances, there were areas where visitors could try out a slow juicer and taste savoury hard crust bread, Matcha green tea bread, or even cakes baked in a bread maker.