Vizio details CES 2011 TVs with Google TV, more

Vizio got an early start on CES news by detailing its entire TV lineup as well as the details of its Via Tablet and Via Phone. The two Android devices use 1GHz processors and have both front and back cameras along with 802.11n Wi-Fi, GPS, HDMI and microSD slots. Both will have a Vizio-themed custom interface on their respective eight- and four-inch displays and should have a way to resume content across hardware.

The company is also the first TV-oriented company outside of Sony to reveal its own Google TV devices. All Via Plus TVs, starting with the XVT3D476SV and XVT3D556SV, will use what may be the first customized version of the Google TV interface. Choosing the OS will let Android and iOS devices work as remotes, although Vizio has promised its own Bluetooth-based QWERTY and trackpad combo remote.

Blu-ray players should also get the Google TV additions, it said.

The TV range is all-3D this year, even sets as small as 22 inches and running at 60Hz. With the exception of its sub-30 inch sets, the E3D series and the 65-inch XVT3D650SV, all sets run at least 240Hz panels and support built-in Internet apps, more conventional Bluetooth remotes and LED backlighting with intelligent light dimming. Two very high end models, the 50-inch XVT3D500CM and 58-inch XVT3D580CM, are unique in sporting 2560x1080 ultra-wide aspect ratios better suited to some movies.

Ship dates and prices for nearly all the line are still unknown, although the Via Phone and Tablet are due in May. Vizio added that it plans to offer its 3D glasses as stand-alone purchases under the Theater 3D badge and licensed out to established eyewear companies like Oakley.

By Electronista Staff