Global TV shipments were down 4.7% to 46.7 million in Q1, according to IHS Markit, but the average screen size is still on the rise and has reached just over 42″. This was attributed to price declines for larger sizes, making 55″ and 65″ more affordable. A year ago, a 55″ screen cost over $900 and a 65″ one was $1750 on average. Those prices have fallen to $700 and $1300 respectively. However, demand for larger sizes is mainly in the US and China. These regions have 36% and 30% of the 55″ market respectively and together account for 70% of all 65″ and over shipments. Worldwide, the share of 55″ and larger screens grew to 22% in Q1, up from 16% in the previous quarter.
Korean brands, Samsung and LGE, saw stability in most regions with 35% share of global unit sales, which translated into 42% of turnover. However, several Chinese brands have gained share in key markets. Foxconn-owned Sharp saw its Chinese shipments grow to 7% from 3% last time, with strong sales of 45″ and 60″ screens. Meanwhile TCL’s partnership with Roku in North America has boosted its unit share to 13% from 4%, making it #3 in North America by volume and #5 by revenue.
