LG preps 52, 84-inch multi-touch LCDs, more

LG Phillips LCD has today revealed some of its first multi-touch displays and is targeting them at users who want to bring the technology to large rooms and public spaces. At 52 and 84 inches, the two new displays are the largest yet to allow more than one point of contact: the 52-inch is the largest contiguous LCD of its kind while the 84-inch model combines four 42-inch screens. An IR sensor registers two points of contact and can also recognize gestures, allowing users to zoom into a map or manipulate a photo with more natural input. Either set functions as a 1080p display that works with most computers and offer virtually the same light output as a view-only display despite the touch input.

Three other LCDs to be shown soon will also offer unique features for malls and other commercial uses, LG says. A unique 47-inch LCD will provide three images on a single display: by channeling the light paths, the screen changes the image depending on the viewing angle. Each image is a full 1080p HD signal and is extremely accurate with one billion colors, according to the company. A similarly-sized display will supply a double-sided screen, while a 42-inch LCD uses transflection (like that of some handheld devices) to triple the brightness of even brighter displays to 1,500cd/m2, making it ideal for viewing even in outdoor light.

All four displays will be exhibited at the Consumer Electronics Show next week, though whether they will be available outside of commercial applications is unknown.

52-inch multi-touch display