Panasonic launches VIERA Connect; an enhancement of the IPTV offerings

Panasonic, the global leader in innovation and technology today launched VIERA Connect - an enhancement of the IPTV offerings on VIERA HDTVs along with a collection of applications including expanded video streaming, two-way interactive features from gaming to social networking and fitness programs. The VIERA Connect is an Open IPTV Platform, that has a collection of applications including expanded video streaming, and two-way interactive features from gaming to social networking, and fitness programs. To coincide with the launch of VIERA Connect, 23 new flat-panel VIERA TV models (19 to 65 inches1) compatible with this service were also introduced. The new models reiterate Panasonic's commitment to providing consumers with the highest quality entertainment options with respect to both Plasma and LCD/LED. The exciting features include fast motion refresh rates, Game Mode, wide viewing angles and a reduction in power consumption. Additionally, the new models combine eco sensibility with superior product performance and enhanced networking functionality in a slim profile and extremely attractive design.

Ohtsubo, President, Panasonic Corporation along with Dia Mirza, Panasonic Eco Ambassador and Ranbir Kapoor, Panasonic Ambassador for VIERA range unveiled the new range of products. The event held at the Hyatt, Mumbai also witnessed the luminaries of Bollywood, Nikhil Advani andRaj Kumar Hirani to announce the winners of the Dimensions - 3D Movie Making Contest - a two day conclave conducted in August 2010 that entailed an experiential zone and live demonstration/presentations at Yash Raj Films Studios for the film fraternity, including students of film-making to gain firsthand knowledge of 3D movie making, postproduction, exhibition and knowledge on audience experience of the end product.Speaking on the culmination of Dimensions, Mr. Diazo Ito, President, Panasonic India said, "Panasonic has been the forerunner of new technology for several decades now. With the Indian creativity getting applauded across the world, it becomes imperative for Panasonic to make available the latest movie making and broadcast technology in India."

Icon and heartthrob of the young generation and Actor Ranbir Kapoor, whose association with Panasonic 3D has been used to successfully translate the 3D experience in exciting TV Campaigns was present to unveil the range of HD TV's to the audience present. Speaking at the launch, he said, "It has been a great journey of association with a brand like Panasonic for past 3 years. I am pleased to be a part of this launch of innovative and advance technologies in India with Panasonic launching an entire new & advanced range of LED and 3D TVs which will heighten the viewing experience of the Indian audience"

Manish Sharma, Director Marketing, Panasonic India, added "Panasonic has constantly worked towards anticipating customer needs and fulfilling them and it gives us immense pleasure to announce new innovative models to the Panasonic VIERA range of Flat Panel TV's. We have also upgraded our products with some futuristic technologies such as IPTV applications which will enable our consumers to connect with the whole world in a smarter way"

The launch of VIERA Connect opens the doors to an unprecedented wealth of entertainment and information for consumer's daily life with a wide range of apps all specifically optimized for large screen HDTVs. The Television line-up adds 14 3D and 14 LED models through this event. To promote 3D in India, not just in terms of viewership but to take the lead on content creation, the event 'Dimensions- 3D Movie Making Contest' was conducted in August 2010 and the winners were felicitated at this event in Mumbai. One team consisting of 5 students and 1 mentor from the 7 shortlisted college teams, won a fully paid trip from Panasonic to visit Panasonic Hollywood Laboratories in Los Angeles, USA. Panasonic has not only revolutionized 3D HD TV, but is committed to creating a synergy between 3D content and viewing and aims to promote the same through various forums like Dimensions.