BenQ has launched a new LCD TV in the Middle East, hoping to use its position as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of LCD monitors to capture a significant proportion of this rapidly developing market.

The new model — BenQ’s Q150 — offers a range of features designed to appeal to style-conscious and technology-savvy consumers in the region. As well as HDTV compatibility, it also features a built-in TV tuner, 3D dynamic edge filtering systems and a built-in subwoofer, creating sharp pictures and crystal-clear sound.

“BenQ has a major business advantage in the LCD television market, because we own the AU Panel factory, the second-largest manufacturer of LCD panels in the world,” said Robert Dung, managing director, BenQ Middle East. “This has enabled us to source the highest-quality panels for the production of the Q150 and to analyze what consumers want in the LCD market.”

BenQ is hoping the expansion of the LCD TV market in the region will match the exponential rise shown in the LCD monitor market in the Middle East in 2003.

“With the introduction of BenQ’s Q150 LCD TV to the Middle East, we anticipate strong performance in key markets such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE, which have already demonstrated strong demand for this kind of technology,” added Dung.

In addition to operating as a television, the Q150 LCD TV can be used as a computer monitor and be connected to a DVD player. With its built-in TV tuner and optional wireless kit, it can be easily moved from room-to-room, and adjusted for easy viewing pleasure. As well as tracking demand for the LCD panel market, BenQ has also built new research into television-watching habits in the region into its business case.

“Research shows that the average person in the Middle East watches almost four hours of TV a day - which adds up to about nine years by time they reach 65 years-old. Given the amount of time we spend with our televisions, it is not surprising that people want the highest quality and most innovative technology,” said Manish Bakshi, director and chief of operations, BenQ Middle East.

Arab News Compunet 12 August 2003