What They Say
Digitimes reports that TCL has launched three new 4K smartTVs in India based on using locally assembled LCD modules which are made at Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Shipments from the plant (apparently to Samsung) are said to have started in March 2022 after the plant was opened. The article quotes the Indian market as expected to reach 10 million units in 2022 based on data from GfK and TCL is reported to be looking for 7% penetration.
The plant is reported to be able to make 5″ to 65″ panels with an annual capacity of 8 million panels.
According to Counterpoint Research, the shipment share of smart TVs in India’s overall TV market has grown from 67% in 2020 to 84% in 2021, reaching 89% in the first quarter of 2022, and the combined market share of the top five brands stands at 47%, indicating a low market concentration rate.
What We Think
The plant in India is described as an ‘Open Cell’ production line and I’m assuming that that means it takes open cells and adds BLUs etc. (BR)
The TCL Tirupati ground-breaking ceremony in December 2018. Production start was delayed (no doubt by Covid)