That 98 inch TV isn’t inexpensive, though a lot of the rest of LG’s new TV range includes models that are pleasingly cheaper than the comparable models from last year.
Each and every year, you can count on the big name-brand TV makers to announce a slew of new TVs at CES in Las Vegas, and then eventually for them to release those TVs (or most of them) locally here in Australia.
LG Australia has done just that, launching its 2024 range of LG TVs covering OLED and QNED models, though not all of them are immediately available. Here’s the rundown of LG TV models, with a warning that this table is not a small one:
That is... a lot of TVs.
So what's new for LG TVs in 2024?
One of the big issues for Smart TVs -- and it's one that I've written about before -- is the inbuilt expiry date on their software. Over time as new streaming services emerge, smart TVs often fail to keep up, not to mention when the actual included apps stop working.
LG is promising that its 2024 LG TV range will come with up to five years of OS upgrades to combat that issue. What's more, the updated version of WebOS, currently WebOS 24 will be made available to models from 2022, further extending lifespans for existing owners there.
LG's new range of TVs also natively support Chromecast and Apple AirPlay, meaning that throwing content from your phone, tablet or web browser should be fairly seamless.
Oh yeah, and there's some really, truly huge models up for grabs, if your wallet can handle the strain. The 98QNED89 TV has a 98 inch screen and will run you $8,999, while the slightly-smaller-but-better-technically OLED97M4 doesn't even have a price yet -- but it certainly won't be less than the 98QNED89.
Equally not likely to be inexpensive is the LG StanbyME GO (sorry for the ear worm, blame LG). It is, as per LG:
Housed in a sturdy carrycase designed to withstand a variety of environmental factors, the StanbyME Go is designed to reshape the way content is accessed indoors and out. Equipped with a built-in battery, screen protection and speakers, this innovative model is ideally suited to watching movies, playing games, and streaming content, and when in Table Mode, it becomes a digital boardgame or turntable, providing a fun and nostalgic experience for users. Featuring an adjustable screen by height, orientation, and viewing angle, the LG StanbyME Go provides tailored viewing experiences. Meanwhile, users can access their favourite content via the built-in LG webOS platform, providing effortless connection with iOS or Android devices.
Not that it's all bad news and high prices, however, with LG claiming that the B4 55/65-inch LG TV models and QNED86 65-inch model are headed to shops at 20% and 25% less than the equivalent 2023 models cost at launch.
LG 2024 TVs: Alex's Take
Damn, but 97/98 inches is a big TV. At that size, they're basically walls, and it does make me wonder if you could build a small apartment out of them cheaper than you could buy property in Sydney or Melbourne these days... but I digress.
I'm not the only one thinking "Pulp Fiction Briefcase"... am I?
I'll be honest here, I do want to test out the StanbyME TV to see how it actually runs, though it does feel like it's very much pitched at the top tax bracket crowd, because I can't imagine it will be low-cost either.
Promising upgrades for LG TVs is genuinely good to see, though I do note with my slightly skeptical eye in place that they've qualified that with "up to", meaning that they could deliver a single update and still meet their promises.
Also, I'm not sure that anyone buys a TV with the thought that it might only have a five year lifespan. I guess TVs do get broken or fused or whatever, but generally isn't that something that you buy when it dies, hopefully a decade or more down the track? Am I out of step with Australian TV buying habits that badly?
Also read:
LG 75QNED86 Review
I guess we'll have to wait and see, though my standard advice for TV buying still applies here. Buy the best TV panel in terms of picture quality that your wallet can afford when you need a new telly, and put the smart TV work in the hands of a decent set top box or dongle. Sure, the new LG TVs might have Chromecast ability built in, but I'd rather spend more on a good viewing experience and throw a cheap Chromecast dongle onto it some years down the track to stay up to date with Smart TV apps anyway.
Also read:
Which Smart TV set top box should I buy: Google Chromecast vs Amazon Fire TV vs Apple TV vs NVIDIA Shield vs Fetch Mini
Hubbl Set Top Box Review
On the pricing front, lower upfront RRPs are good to see without a question, though the TV retail market is one that is utterly cutthroat anyway. It is incredibly common to see the big electrical retailers -- your JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Bing Lee and so on -- slicing away prices on TVs pretty much any time of year at all.
Sure, some of those are older model stock rather than the new TVs, but it typically doesn't take long, especially for more regular sizes. Don't expect too many discounts on those 97 or 98 inch TVs any time soon, mind.
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