Plasma is back in the game, baby! Actually, the TV technology never really left, even though a few manufacturers seemed to be planning for its demise. Don't worry, though; plasma isn't going anywhere, according to new numbers from Display Research.
The DisplaySearch Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report, Plasma and LCD TV Panel Shipment Module says that 2010 was actually very good to plasma TV makers. Things were looking a bit shaky, with the flood of LED HDTVs. However, that rollout actually brought LCD prices to a bit of a halt, making the prices of plasmas very attractive, especially in a very cautious economy.
Plasma seemed to provide the most affordable option, as well as the best image for 3D -- another factor that helped boost sales slightly.
"While 3D has not played a big role in the growth of plasma shipments, it has helped to support plasma TV in the competition with LCD TV," noted Ken Park, DisplaySearch senior analyst for Korea TV Market Research. "With 3D functionality, plasma can re-position itself as a lasting technology in the TV industry. In fact, plasma TV brands are entering 2011 with 3D across their product portfolios, from 42-inch HD to 152 inches."
According to the research firm's numbers, plasma shipments grew a total of 9 percent Y/Y, which translates to 5.2 million units. That increase brought the total plasma TV panel shipments to 19.1 million for 2010.
Panasonic was king, as far as plasma was concerned. The company's plasma sales grew a total of 22 percent for the year. Samsung (37 percent) and LG (30 percent) had significant growth and sales as well, to round out the top three.
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