LG Display's latest concept device might only be coming to airport lounges or the living rooms of the ultra-rich, but it promises to offer the most laid back and immersive TV viewing experience ever through a pod-like chair that can recline and rotate the display.
After sharing an initial glimpse of the product over a week ago, LG Display this week gave a more detailed look at its futuristic "media chair." Though it's technically a CES reveal, the concept device won’t be shown on site in Las Vegas, where the show has been scaled down due to COVID-19. However, the company published video footage of the chair in action.
The media chair is built with a 55-inch curved OLED 4K TV panel. But what sets it apart from other home entertainment experiences is how both the chair and the TV can recline for comfort.
The TV can also rotate from a horizontal viewing mode to a vertical one, making it easier to view mobile apps or TikTok videos. The other perk is the surround sound. Through display vibrations, the TV panel itself can emit audio to the user from the front. Meanwhile, the chair’s built-in speakers can project audio from the back.
The big question is cost, but LG Display refrained from providing an estimate. Because the chair is a concept, it may never reach the production stage. Instead, the manufacturer hopes the device inspires its clients, such as TV vendors, to develop similar products using LG’s technology that could one day reach consumers.
Examples could include the media chair ending up VIP lounges at airports or shopping centers, or targeting the ultra high-end market. LG Display also points out the media chair can be customized to a client’s liking, so it’s possible the same technology could be applied to gaming.
The other concept device LG Display gave a more detailed look at its "virtual ride," which involves placing a trio of 55-inch OLED panels in front and over an exercise bike.
The company is using flexible OLED panels, which allow the screen to seamlessly curve over the exercise bike. The 4K technology can also offer high-quality visuals, making it feels like you’re biking through a real environment instead of a virtual one, according to LG Display.
There's no word on how much the concept device might cost. But again, the company hopes the technology inspires companies to create a similar system using LG’s technology.
LG Display adds that the OLED screens are a better alternative to the VR headsets some exercise machines have been using. A client could also choose to add more OLED screens around the exercise bike for an even more immersive experience.