Panasonic HD 3D Plasma HDTV Named as CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Award Honoree

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today announced that it has been named an International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree for the TC-P55VT50, 55 inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally) Full HD 3D Plasma HDTV in the Video Displays category.  Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer electronics products across 32 product categories.

A 55" Full HD 3D Plasma 1080p HDTV, the new Panasonic TC-P55VT50 builds on its award-winning predecessors to offer an exceptional entertainment experience.  Featuring 2D to 3D conversion, the TC-P55VT50 seamlessly transforms any 2D content into high-quality 3D images in real-time.  Equipped with an advanced pre-discharge technology that enables higher contrast in dark areas, the black levels of the TC-P55VT50 achieve an even deeper hue, displaying some of the best black levels in the industry.  In addition, the TV's Infinite Black Pro Panel consists of a new cell structure and phosphors, resulting in improved luminous efficiency and higher brightness and contrast levels. 

In keeping with a commitment to the environment, the Panasonic TC-P55VT50 has been developed with a mercury and lead-free panel.  A newly designed phosphor process and rear panel process allows the Plasma panel to achieve a longevity of 100,000 hours, which translates into more than 30 years* of viewing pleasure. 

Under the concept of Smart VIERA, TC-P55VT50's internet platform, VIERA Connect™, expands the number of apps available to consumers and improves both television functionality and ease- of-use. Multi-tasking allows simultaneous use of apps from seven categories, including Skype™, Netflix™, YouTube™, Facebook, Twitter and Pandora®, among others.  The addition of a full browser capability makes it easy for consumers to use the internet from their television and DLNA, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® are also supported for a high level of convenience.

"Panasonic is proud to be recognized as a CES Innovations Design and Smart Engineering Award Honoree for the TC-P55VT50," said Henry Hauser Vice President Merchandising Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America.  "As a leader in the full HD 3D category, Panasonic Smart VIERA Televisions continue to improve the quality of our Plasma HDTV's year after year.  This award represents our company's commitment in providing consumers with products which produce exceptional picture quality and superior audio for a truly enjoyable home entertainment experience."  

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®, the producer of the International CES, the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow, and  have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. The Best of Innovations honor is awarded to the products with the highest judges' scores and will be featured in the Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase at the 2012 International CES.

Panasonic's TC-P55VT50 will be displayed at the 2012 International CES, which runs January 10-13, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Honorees will also be displayed at CES Unveiled: the Official Press Event of the International CES from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, January 8 in the Venetian Ballroom of the Venetian.

The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:

• Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used
• Aesthetic and design qualities
• The product's intended use/function and user value
• Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive
• How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace

Products chosen as an Innovations honoree reflect innovative design and engineering of the entries. Examples may include the first time various technologies are combined in a single product or dramatic enhancements to previous product designs.

Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering honoree products are featured on www.CESweb.org/Innovations, which lists product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL.

*Based on 8 hours a day of television viewing

About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada.  The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more. 

Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE Panasonic