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Philips' MiraVision Mirror TV provides customization and flexibility (24/9/2004)

Today at the 2004 Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association Show (CEDIA), Philips Electronics showcased the MiraVisionTM Mirror TV, a versatile 17-, 23- or 30-inch LCD display integrated into a mirror. The MiraVision Mirror TV uses a unique polarized mirror technology, which transfers nearly 100 percent of the light through the reflective surface. It is the first commercialized product created by Philips HomeLab, the company's research incubator for future electronic products and technologies. The MiraVision Mirror TV is ideal for non-traditional viewing spaces when it is installed flush to the wall.

Philips decided to commercialize the product after testing a prototype with more than 200 consumers in its HomeLab research facility, a fully functioning two-bedroom home that doubles as a scientific laboratory. Philips HomeLab enables researchers to observe (with 34 hidden cameras and an observation area) how people interact with new technology. Consumers who used the MiraVision Mirror TV prototype appreciated the ability to watch the news and traffic while also shaving or brushing their teeth.

Philips, the world's largest supplier of television display solutions for the hotel industry, is currently marketing the MiraVision Mirror TV to the hospitality industry, but also sees a market for the product in customized home environments within the next few years.

"The MiraVision Mirror TV represents an important advancement in consumer technologies and showcases Philips leadership in innovative products," said Gottfried DutinŽ, CEO of Philips Electronics. "From a technology perspective, the MiraVision Mirror TV artfully combines everyday functionalities such as television and reflective mirror viewing. It's also an early example of the Philips' vision of "ambient intelligence"Ñ smart and easy to use technology that surrounds the consumer."

Mirror TV enhances aesthetics and utilizes space

Philips MiraVision Mirror TV provides the solution to the ever-shrinking spaces in hotels and retail environments. The design hides the electronics, giving spaces an architecturally refined display and enhancing the upscale ambiance that hotels and retail environments strive to provide guests. At up to 30-inches, the MiraVision Mirror TV can be placed on the wall as a centerpiece.

The MiraVision Mirror TV showcased today provides a range of functions beyond simple display of television programming. In a hotel, for example, it can be used for bill payment or pay-per-view movies. It can also be used as a desktop/workstation application. Individuals can link their laptop or home PC to the MiraVision Mirror TV with a special connector that enables the mirror to become an LCD monitor, providing a large display for presentations or surfing the web.

For home use, Philips is currently testing more advanced versions that could connect the user wirelessly to the mirror, providing everything from news to traffic reports and health data, such as blood pressure or weight. Or, the mirror could display a cartoon that encourages children to brush their teeth longer and more effectively. Company officials estimate that the home version may be available before 2005.

www.philips.com