Many new active LCD 3DTVs now address what had been a common problem with such sets: annoying “ghosted” double-images that remain visible even when you’re wearing 3D glasses. In our most recent TV Ratings, which were released today, we found several models that reduce ghosting to where it’s barely noticeable on most programs, including the Sony Bravia XBR-55HX929 and the Samsung UN55D8000. That’s a big change from last year, when we found that even some of the best LCD 3D sets had severe ghosting problems. One new model that still has ghosting: Sharp’s Aquos LC-52LE835U.
In our latest look at TVs, we also found that access to Internet-based content is becoming available on more mainstream models. These include new Smart TVs, from LG and Samsung, that offer full Web browsers and downloadable apps that can provide access to new content and features (such as the ability to use your smartphone as a TV remote control).
We’re also seeing more sets that have more basic access to online content, including streaming movies and Internet radio stations. Although they don’t have full Web browsers, many of these sets will let you update social-media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, follow auctions on eBay, or make Skype video calls. A growing number now come equipped with Wi-Fi—or the ability to add it via an optional adapter—which can make it a lot easier to connect to a home network in rooms that don’t have a wired Ethernet jack.
Several of the sets are DLNA-certified, so they can easily access content stored on other devices such as a computer or tablet that are connected to a home network. And we’re starting to see more remote controls with unique features, such as QWERTY keyboards, touchpads, and even gesture control, that are useful when navigating the TV’s Internet features or initiating Web searches.
If you’d like to see the very latest TVs that have been added to the Ratings, check out our recent “In the TV Test Labs” blog (full Ratings are available to subscribers). And remember that while the latest Ratings have just been posted, we’ve already begun testing on 16 new models. Stay tuned for an upcoming post that identifies the newest TV models that are currently being tested.
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