More notebook panels to pack touch, 3D functions

A new DisplaySearch report indicates that touch and 3D functionality are influencing the development of notebook PC and LCD monitor panels for 2010.

According to the Quarterly Large-Area TFT LCD Product Roadmap Report, panel manufacturers will feature 3D and touch features—even combining them in a variety of new notebook and LCD monitor panels in 2010. In addition, DisplaySearch's findings also indicate that while 120Hz became a mainstream feature for LCD TVs in 2009, 240Hz with LED backlights will be predominant in 2010.

The Q4 09 Quarterly Large-Area TFT LCD Product Roadmap Report findings indicate important trends in touch panels and 3D displays in panel makers' IT product and technology roadmaps.

Most panel makers are developing 11.6-inch LCDs with touch functionality for notebook PCs and mini-notes (netbooks) in 2010, leveraging Windows 7. Samsung has canceled plans to produce 15.6-inch notebook panels with in-cell touch in Q2 10, in favor of using touch panels.

Chi Mei Optoelectronics has been the most aggressive in promoting 3D and touch capabilities in monitor panels. They are currently mass producing 23.6-inch 3D displays, and 23.6-inch and 27-inch with touch capability will be mass-produced in Q1 10. Samsung, LG Display and AU Optronics are all developing new monitor panel models with touch and 3D features for 2010 launches.