Vestel told us that it has made the decision not to return to BETT next year. The show is aimed more at end users, while Vestel targets the trade. As an example of the disconnect, we heard that, just minutes before we arrived on the stand, a teacher had asked if the company would sell his school a single display – and ship it to Namibia. Vestel would lose money on that deal!
A new display range is a series of displays with an OPS slot, intended to bring low-cost digital signage to education. These feature an Android module pre-installed, running Android 4.4 (although it can be removed if necessary). The module features WiFi and 3G connectivity, as well as USB (x2) and RJ45 ports. Schools can either pre-load content or point to a signage-compatible website. It is designed as a turnkey solution – all the owner needs to do is add power.
The displays are available in 32″, 40″, 50″, 65″ and 84″ sizes, with edge-LED backlights. They are capable of 16/7 operation. Touch is featured, enabling use as wayfinding solutions.
A 78″ curved UltraHD prototype TV was on show. Although we opined that it would be too expensive for education, Vestel thinks that it will have a good response. 55″ and 65″ units are also expected to be produced.
Vestel’s participation in Turkey’s Fatih Project, which aims to supply a tablet to every schoolchild, was completed this month. The company has supplied multiple smart boards to schools across the country (although the Project has been branded a failure in other areas, as it has run over time and over budget, while still missing its goals).
