LG Announces 8K ThinQ AI Smart TVs Ahead Of CES 2019 Debut

CES 2019 kicks off in just a few days, and ahead of the start of the show, LG has announced new smart TVs that will be on display that will go well with its already announced new sound bars. The new line of TVs slot into the ThinQ AI series and are powered by the Alpha 9 Gen 2 intelligent processor and deep learning algorithms. LG promises that the new range of TVs will offer a higher level of AI picture and sound quality experience than previous TVs.

The deep learning algorithm can enhance the image and sound quality by analyzing the source content and optimizing content to ambient conditions in the room. The series of TVs also support the LG open smart platform, and the sets will give access to a range of popular AI assistants across multiple platforms including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. LG also baked in a Home Dashboard that allows the control of a variety of smart home devices from within the TV.

LG's Alpha Gen 2 processor is used in the Z9, W9, E9, and C9 series OLED TVs and heightens image and sound quality via the deep learning algorithm. The algorithm is said to be developed from a "vast database of over one million visual data." LG specifically calls out the 8K 88-inch Z9 OLED TV stating that it will deliver the most realistic 8K picture quality that looks sharp, vivid, and detailed thanks to 8K upscaling and improved noise reduction.

The new Alpha Gen 2 AI processor can improve image quality by adjusting brightness to ambient conditions using the TVs integrated ambient light sensor to optimize screen brightness for the room conditions. The processor also refines HDR content by adjusting brightness to turn the darkest scenes into scenes with "incredible contrast, detail, and depth of color even if the room is bright." These new TVs also have virtual 5.1 surround sound, and LG's processor can optimize sound based on content type so you can hear the voices in movies and other types of content over the music. The flagship TVs also have Dolby Atmos tech inside. LG's TVs will have HDMI 2.1 ports, and some of the TVs will support high frame rate at 120 frames per second. No details on pricing or availability are offered at this time.