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Samsung Puts Curves into 2014 UHD and LED TV Lineup

By Rachel Cericola

Back in January, Samsung introduced the world to the 105" Curved UHD TV. So where is it? We still don't have a lot of answers. What we do have is a slew of new TVs.

Samsung just announced additions to its lineup of UHD and LED TVs for 2014. All eyes are (literally) on the new curved models, which are designed to make the viewer feel immersed in the on-screen content. It boasts a panoramic effect to draw you in from almost any viewing position or angle. Even better, it won't just be available on UHD TVs. Samsung is planning curved LED TVs for 2014 as well.

Of course, the UHD is causing the most buzz. How can it not, with four times the resolution and pixels of full 1080p HD? This allows for viewing 4K content, but each set also has proprietary technology to convert full HD, HD and lower resolution to near-UHD quality. It's part of a unique four-step process, which includes signal analysis, noise reduction, upscaling and detail analysis.

Samsung is also highlighting each set's UHD Dimming technology, which processes each block of the on-screen image to deliver better blacks and overall contrast. Other highlights include the new Samsung Smart Hub for easier navigation through Smart TV features, as well as the faster Quad Core processor. The sets also support HEVC, HDMI 2.0, MHL 3.0 and HDCP 2.2 and the option for upgrades via the Samsung UHD Evolution Kit.

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Samsung’s U9000 Curved UHD TV includes the Auto Depth Enhancer feature, which promises a 3D-like image without the glasses.

Although Samsung is planning four lines of UHD TVs for this year, the cream of the crop is still that 105-incher. Adding to the immersive experience is this unit's 21 x 9 aspect ratio and Samsung's Auto Depth Enhancer technology, which promises a 3D-like image without the glasses. Samsung has yet to announce any new information or pricing for this set. However, the company says that the 105" Curved UHD TV will be available sometime in the second half of this year.

If you can't wait or can't fit that 105-inch TV into your house, Samsung will have plenty of other curved options. First up is the U9000 Curved UHD TV, which will be available sometime this month in 55- ($3999.99) and 65-inch ($4999.99) screen sizes. A 78-inch version will also follow later this year, with an MSRP of $7999.99. Each model has that cutting-edge curved screen, Samsung's PurColor technology, and the Auto Depth Enhancer.

Sometime in late spring, the U8700 Curved UHD TV will make its debut in 55- and 65-inch sizes. Prices have yet to be announced, but this model will pack an immersive, lifelike UHD 4K picture and Precision Black local dimming in a TV that measures 1.2 inches thin with a 0.27-inch bezel.

Last in the new line of UHD TVs will be the U8550. This may not have the curve of the other lines, but it's far from "flat." Instead, it has that UHD picture quality, Smart TV features, and UHD Dimming for deep blacks and bright whites. This month, Samsung will release a 55-inch model for $2999.99 and a 65-incher for $3999.99. In May, the U8550 series will add 50- ($2499.99), 60- ($3499.99) and 75-inch ($5999.99) models.

In addition to UHD, Samsung also debuted two LED lines -- and one of those is curved as well. That would be the H8000 Curved Smart LED TV. It boasts a wider field of view and gorgeous image, as well as new motion blur reduction technology for better images on sports, gaming and more. Each of the three models will also have Smart TV features. Available sometime this spring, the 55-inch model will be priced at $2499.99, with the 65-incher coming in at $3399.99. Those models don't have an exact date yet, but Samsung is expecting to sell the 48-inch version in May for $1999.99

Samsung also announced the H7150 FHD LED TV, a non-curved model that has a new design, Micro Dimming Pro technology, and a Quad Core power split-screen for multitasking that entertainment. Also worth noting is that the three models in this line will have Smart TV options and the Smart View 2.0 feature, which allows users to wirelessly stream content to the TV from a variety of mobile devices. Available this spring, the 55-inch model has an MSRP of $1899.99, with the 65-inch model priced at $2199.99 and the 75-incher at $3999.99.

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The new H8000 Curved Smart LED TV promises a wider field of view and new motion blur reduction technology.

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