The UltraHD format is driving flat-panel TV sales this year, with revenue in the USA rising 7% YoY, to $668 million, as of the 25th October.
Stephen Baker of the NPD Group, which shared the data, said “4K/UHD was still very new to the market during the 2013 holiday shopping season, but we believe it will exceed everyone’s expectations this year as consumers have had a full year to learn about the benefits 4K/UHD brings to the market”.
Unit sales of UltraHD TVs have risen to nine times the level of full-year 2013. Sales rose despite an ASP of $2,400, compared to $450 for average flat-panel TVs. More than 70% of those sold were 55″ or 65″ dsplays.
Samsung led the US UltraHD market, with various ‘competitively-priced’ options resulting in a 50% market share. Sony (25%), Seiki (11%) and LG (11%) followed. “As holiday promotions get underway, this year will be the critical point for 4K/UHD to begin to claim its position as the ‘must have’ premium TV experience”, added Baker. Since Vizio entered the market last month, prices in the USA have fallen 10%.
