With the number of smart phones in the hands of consumers these days , it won’t be long before smart tv’s proliferate in many living rooms around the world. I’ve witnessed the demonstration of the Samsung smart TV last summer and it was such an amazing experience. The beauty and smarts of this sleek TV does not compare to the time I reviewed a 60-inch Samsung TV a year ago when it was delivered to the house.

This time around, Samsung invited me to review the Samsung LED D8000 Smart TV in a hotel. Why not? Experience the future of TV today . Being holed up in a hotel will allow me to concentrate on the review and enjoy the experience in the process.

My husband and I took the day off to explore the wonders of the the Samsung LED D8000’s innovative technology—punctuated by its über sophisticated design. Bring my husband along proved to be useful. He served as a model to pose as I reviewed the Smart TV. It was helpful to see the perspective of a non-techie dabble with this Smart TV.

The first thing I did upon arriving at the awesome Hotel H20 was to turn on the TV while my husband checked out the fishes in the aquarium walls. Turning on the TV and the blu-ray DVD player was a breeze. I played the Samsung DVD video to get a brief overview of the Blu ray player and the Smart TV.

I was just floored by the crystal clarity and the full High definition of the movies. It was simply gorgeous. I bought a Samsung UA40D5000 three months ago and it was already a beauty. This is even more of a beauty than I can ever imagine. Watching movies with the blu ray is something that I have never done with my TV. I should really consider buying a blu ray player.

Gorgeous blueprint

There is something in this classic-looking, the Samsung LED D8000 Smart TV not found in my Samsung TV. This Smart TV brought me closer to the action with a design never before seen in televisions. Framed with an ultra-slim bezel, the TV possesses a sleek look without sacrificing Samsung’s excellent picture quality. Its minimalistic design is timeless. Add to that, it harmoniously blends with compatible devices, making it perfect for modern living.

I wanted to see what interactive experience was in store for me by checking out the features of the Smart hub.

The remote control pad felt a bit intimidating at first. I have a similar remote control pad but with lesser buttons. This remote pad had a button for the Smart hub, and 3D images.

Using the keypad to key in the username and password of the internet connection felt cumbersome. It felt like typing on those old cellphone keypads. A Samsung tablet or even an iphone can be converted to a remote control pad which makes it easy to type.

The movie is minimized to the upper left corner while the fun apps cover majority of monitor space.

Integrated entertainment

You can find the Samsung Smart hub button somewhere on the left centered part of the remote pad.

The Samsung Smart Hub is a media portal specifically fashioned to discover a wide array of related content and information on the Web. Imagine the range of possibilities. Its easy-to-use interface, with its Search All and Web Browser features, is the key to a world of videos, photos, and music that can be shared as effortlessly as they are found. In addition, Samsung’s numerous TV Apps definitely put the ‘fun’ in functional. To further personalize entertainment, AllShare’s supreme connectivity connects the LED D8000 to compatible devices, which lets you access videos, photos, and music within.

I checked out the Skype feature first to see what it felt like watching my loved one larger the life on the 60 inch TV. I called my sister who fortunately was online.

She got to marvel at the aquarium wall behind me.

Social TV

is similar to my multi-tasking while watching TV. The Social TV-function is well developed for users like me. It makes it easy to share opinions, thoughts or reviews about I am watching at the moment. If you’re watching the Azkal’s football game you can quickly twitter out your frustration over the reckless tackle that led to the latest penalty kick. If you’re watching a debate program, you can by using the Smart Hub’s Social TV comment on topics in real time through social media and other channels.

There goes my Twitter stream.

What is social media without facebook?

The updates do not auto-refresh. One has to press a button to refresh the Twitter timeline or status of your facebook friends.

The fun part is checking out the unique at-home experience.

This LED D8000’s built in 2D to 3D conversion. Both picture and sound are enhanced through Samsung’s 3D Sound Effect and 3D HyperReal Engine. To complete the home entertainment experience, Samsung’s featherweight 3D glasses converts pictures to 3D in real-time!

I forgot that one had to switch on the power button on the 3D glasses while watching the 3D movie. My husband enjoyed watching Shrek that was provided for our review. There were other movies but we saw them already.

Samsung told us that this Samsung LED D8000 Smart TV is only the first of many.

Kang Yunje, Vice President of Samsung’s TV Design Group, perfected an aesthetic that bears tremendous purpose.
“We wanted to remove the barrier between the real world and the TV that is visually distracting: the bezel,” Mr. Kang said. “The design concept centered on the television. If we see the real world in three dimensions, and the TV offers three dimensional images, then everything we see has the potential to be in three dimensions. Designing a slim bezel was about removing the frame that limited our view of the three-dimensional world.”

After much trial and error, the development team was slowly inching its way to the ultimate goal. In 2011, the creation of the LED D8000 proved that an ultra-slim bezel was indeed a possibility. The LED D8000 appears slimmer, yet it maintains a superior viewing experience—the perfect marriage of design and technology.

I wanted to experience more of the fun apps but breaking news that Qaddafi was dead brought us to CNN and BBC.

This is the future of TV as breaking news happens and Twitter abuzz with speculations and hard hitting opinions. I can imagine myself using this Smart TV for my online media work and having fun at the same time.

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For more details, check out Samsung LED D800 product specifications.

Suggested retail price are as follows:

Samsung Smart TV

UA60D8000 = 319,900 pesos
UA55D8000 = 239,900 pesos

Blu ray players
BD-D5500 or BD- C6900 = 9990 pesos

The Samsung Smart TV LED8000 is truly the first of its kind to hit Philippine shores. Contrary to the “idiot box” of days past, the Samsung LED8000 is equipped with an intelligent feature that suggests content based on you viewing behavior. It’s also hooked up to the internet and comes with an interactive web browser so you can address all your multimedia needs in just one device. As for the viewing experience itself, the Samsung Smart TV LED8000 gives it more depth, thanks to its 3D-compatible screen with the first-ever 3D sound system. Moreover, it also offers the convenience of a touch-screen remote control, which makes channel surfing easier and more enjoyable.

Here are just some of the things our family can do with a Samsung Smart TV.

Make live Tweets about current events

With its built-in SocialTV feature, you can watch television while checking Facebook or Tweeting updates at the same time. This is perfect for new media junkies like my mom, whose Twitter feed is a source of news for nearly 5,000 followers as she comments on the latest political and social issues in the country.

Art film nights with friends

Movie ticket prices are becoming increasingly more expensive, and I find it more practical to just torrent the latest movies and view it at home (unless it’s a movie I really want to support). The Samsung Smart TV has a Share-All feature that can synchronize content from other gadgets like a laptop or external hard drive, allowing me to watch my downloaded movies in an ultra-large screen. With this TV, I can also host movie nights with friends and show them interesting art films we wouldn’t otherwise be able to see.

Long-distance family parties

The Samsung Smart TV can support Skype, which means that my sister and other family members who are currently based abroad don’t have to feel left out when we have family gatherings at home! By logging onto Skype at the same time as our party, it’ll almost feel like my sister never left home.

Guilt-free all-night TV show marathon

Today’s TV shows have a way of sucking you into their world completely and keeping you up all night, because you just have to find out what’s going to happen next. With the Samsung Smart TV, I can watch TV as long as I want without worrying about how much electricity it consumes. Samsung made sure that this television would be energy-efficient, just like its other LCD TVs and LED TVs.

Our living room could sure use a Samsung Smart TV. I hope we win one!

A gadget that multitasks brings real value for money, especially if this gadget is a gorgeous HDTV that brings crisp, clear images and sits right in your living room. This summer, Sony Internet TV reaches Philippine homes! The new line of BRAVIA HDTVs and 3D TVs allow you to view YouTube videos, Tweet your followers, check your friends’ status updates on Facebook, and video chat with relatives on Skype. And there’s no need to hook up your PC or laptop to the TV to get connected to the internet.

Besides the new BRAVIA HDTVs, Sony Philippines also brings a new line of Blu-Ray Disc players, the BDP-S485 and BDP-S380, as well as a new Sony 3D Blu-Ray Disc Home Theater that plays 2D and 3D video. No need to go to the cinema to watch your favorite 3D flicks! Thanks to Sony’s unique ability to create networked products and future-focused technologies, Filipino can have the ultimate consumer experience right in the comfort of their homes.

Prices of the new Sony products are yet to be announced.

What’s becoming fairly popular these days are Internet-ready televisions, which come in various sizes (as small as 22″) and price points. Most of these devices aren’t designed to surf the internet per se; rather, they support all sorts of services, such as video streaming from Netflix, and access to communication services like Skype or Twitter. However, TVs like the Sony Google TV is a marriage between television and the Internet. You can use it to access the web as though it were a computer, thanks to a QWERTY keypad remote with integrated optical mouse. And while you aren’t surfing, the device can play your regular TV programs.

What do you think? Does it make sense to get a 3D HDTV now or would you rather have an Internet-ready TV?

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Meet Sony Internet TV, the world’s first HDTV incorporating the Google TV platform.

With the advent of Internet TV, who knows it will soon phase out the usual televisions? In the words of my friend Pocholo: “The TV that will literally kill the local TV. No more manipulative broadcasting. No more abusive ads. NO MORE NONSENSE BROADCAST. This is what I call Personalcasting. ABS CBN and GMA… what’s your next move!”

Imagine using Sony Internet TV that provides richer internet access so you can browse the web just like you would from a computer. Seamlessly navigate between websites and TV channels or enjoy both at the same time. On the same screen.

What else can it do?

1. makes searching for content faster and simpler than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a channel, show, or website, it’s never been easier to find what you want.

2. customize your experience that you’ll have access to the ever-evolving library of Web content and built for TV apps. Automatic upgrades help ensure the software powering your Sony Internet TV is up to date.

3. Enjoy the performance with Intel Inside®. The Sony Internet TV has enough processing power to easily load sites and stream videos, while a wireless handheld QWERTY remote makes navigation simple.

To understand Google TV, here is a video:

Visit www.google.com/tv

Rep. Manny Pacquaio was awarded a 52-inch Sony BRAVIA LX9 3D TV by Sony Philippines president and CEO Takao Kuroda. The Sony president said that it is an honor for Sony to stand side by side for the “world’s greatest products” with the world’s greatest boxer.

“It is our honor to welcome this great hero into the Sony family,” said Mr. Takao Kuroda, President and Managing Director, Sony Philippines. “Pacquiao is a man whose personal achievements have given his countrymen a shared experience of national glory. Being a true symbol of power and triumph make him the perfect ambassador in our campaign to bring the sensational experience of the Sony 3D World to the Philippines.”

Pacquiao is excited to be part of this project. “I am very happy that Sony Philippines is investing in bringing their most advanced 3D products to the country,” he said. “I am also happy that they have entrusted me to help Filipinos appreciate their 3D technology.”

It was in February 2010 when I first tested the Sony 3D TV, also known as the first 3D TV to be unveiled in the Philippines. Featuring full high definition 3D technology from Sony, the Sony 3D TV has the high frame rate made possible in 240Hz LCD TVs together with Active Shutter glass technology. This creates incredibly realistic depth and vivid 3D images.

PlayStation 3 owners are also in for a real treat. To complement the launch o fthese devices, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe is releasing four 3D stereoscopic PS3 games through the PlayStation Networks. These promo games include something fun for the entire family, from the exciting Motorstorm Pacific Rift and WipEout HD, to the family-friendly Super Stardust HD6. Purchasers of the 3D TVs get these games for free.

There are currently three types of Sony 3D TVs. The biggest one of them all is the Sony Bravia XBR-LX900 series, which comes with a 3D sync transmitter and two pairs of 3D glasses. This model will come in two sizes, a 52-inch one and a 60-inch one. The second model, the Sony XBR-HX909, comes in 52- and 46-inch sizes and do not come with the built-in transmitter. The KDL-HX800 model, on the other hand, is the most affordable with sizes at 55, 46, and 60 inches. However, none of these come with 3D glasses or the transmitter.

If you’d like to know more about Sony’s exciting new line of 3D TVs, please call (02) 878-7600 or 0917-8077669, email info@sph.sony.com, or log on to www.sony.com.ph.

3D HDTVs have finally reached the Philippines! And so have a new line of HDTVs from Sony.

I attended the press launch of the new models for Sony Bravia at the Boracay Shangrila thinking it was just your ordinary television.

But before I show you how Sony plans to revolutionize home entertainment, let me explain to you the concept behind Sony’s 2010 Bravia collection. This is the Monolithic Design concept infused within all the new BRAVIA models. The first feature is the On/Of Conscious, which allows viewers to be enlivened by an extraordinary spectacle when the BRAVIA is turned on, while being enamored by a gorgeous single surface when the BRAVIA is turned off. The second is Upward Style – you can recline the TV at a 6° angle – giving you the impression of the TV looking towards you, while adding a sense of space to your room. The final theme, or Contrast of Material, proves that the Sony BRAVIA TVs can blend into any environment to bring contrast and unity.

These concepts are part of the philosophy of Tatazumai, which artist Kidlat de Guia used as inspiration for his latest collection. His work, which is showcased together with the launch of the 2010 BRAVIA collection, further emphasizes the trends that have redefined television design this year. Whatever model you choose, there is a BRAVIA to ensure that your entertainment experience is nothing short of a dream come true.

Sony Bravia LX900

On with the new HDTVs! This is the new Bravia LX900, also known as the first 3D TV to be unveiled in the Philippines. Featuring full high definition 3D technology from Sony, the LX900 has a the high frame rate made possible in 240Hz LCD TVs together with Active Shutter glass technology. This creates ncredibly realistic depth and vivid 3D images.

While Full HD 3D is the new frontier, Sony stands tall not just as the company with the widest array of 3D ready products, but also as the only the consumer electronics with a grasp of 3D content. Bringing 3D movies into your home is now made easier as Sony moved to take its triumphant Blu-ray technology into a whole new dimension with the introduction of a new affordable 3D Blu-ray Disc Player. Also featuring Sony’s Monolithic Design Philosophy, the BDP-S470 with software upgrade will be ready to play 3D Blu-ray Disc movies on a 3D enabled TV.

You can easily plug an external Hard Disk Drive or USB device into the front USB port of the Blu-ray Disc Players and enjoy movies, music or photos through your TV or home cinema system. With Blu-ray compatibility extended to an even larger range of file types, including DivX HD and MKV format, it’s easier than ever to share personal entertainment from all over the home.

BRAVIA NX Series

A presence in any room, the BRAVIA NX series exudes excellence in form and function. Further, combining the prowess of the Internet and TV broadcasts, the BRAVIA NX series is a web-savvy AV enthusiast’s dream-come-true.

BRAVIA Internet Video offers you the experience of seamlessly streaming a variety of on-demand Internet content such as YouTube video clips among a number of content providers, the way you experience TV broadcasted programs. In addition, BRAVIA Internet Widgets lets you keep in touch with the world with configurable and customizable add–ons that allow access to the news, weather and all sorts of information. There’s no need to hook up your PC or watch on a cramped screen; you can quickly access new videos and services as they’re added and stream full-screen content direct to your TV. Your online world of content and services will keep expanding so there will always be plenty more entertainment to discover and enjoy.

BRAVIA EX Series

HDTVs look like they consume a lot of power, but the Sony Bravia EX series certainly doesn’t. The BRAVIA EX series sports energy-saving features such as Ambient Sensor, LED backlight , and advanced Presence Sensor technologies , minimizing power consumption without compromising on picture quality. The Ambient Sensor will automatically adjust the picture brightness, according to the amount of ambient light in the viewing environment, to lower power consumption. Similarly, the Presence Sensor will automatically turn off the picture when the sensor does not detect the viewer’s presence.

BRAVIA BX Series

We all get the impression that the HDTV experience is only for those who have a lot of money to throw away, but the Bravia BX series brings the beauty and detail of the cinema straight to your living room at a more affordable price. The BRAVIA BX series offers a host of technologies like Full HD resolution, BRAVIA Engine3 imaging processor, and fuss-free connectivity to other devices among other things, all in an affordable, accessible package.

Last Christmas’s Samsung E1080 giveaway is continuing well into this year! For every purchase of a featured Samsung LCD Monitor, you get entitled to a free Samsung E1080 mobile phone. This phone is known for its slim size, ergonomic design and comes with a host of unique features like an SOS emergency message that you can send with just one click of a button. So not only will you enjoy the exquisite design and crystal clear display of a Samsung LCD monitor; you get an awesome phone too! Look under the jump for the Samsung LCD monitors included in the promo:

EcoFit P2270G and P2370G: Made with the environment in mind, the Samsung EcoFit monitor is built without the use of lead and volatile compounds which can harm the environment. Plus, it even uses up to 33% less energy that traditional computer monitors. And, the best part is, the image resolution is extremely clear and vivid with a dynamic contrast ratio of 50,000:1 and a response time of only 2milliseconds.

LapFit LD190G and LD220G: With today’s need to multi-task, having one screen on your laptop just won’t cut it. Samsung has a developed the perfect mate for your laptop with the LapFit. It easily extends your workspace by easily connecting this additional monitor via USB. The LapFit is even designed to mimic the angle, height and brightness of your laptop screen so your virtual workspace looks seamless.

P2050 and P2250: Designed with poetry in mind, the P2050 and P2250 LCD monitors were made to resemble a piece of art. With its flawless fine lines, delicate sunset bezel and slim neck, these monitors are sure to beautify any home office. But, they’re not only appealing to look at, the P2050 and P2250 also provide the best viewing experience with a 16:9 wide screen and a 50,000:1 contrast ratio.

2333HD, T240HD and T260HD: Not content with watching DVDs or streaming videos on your LCD monitor? Why not watch your favorite TV shows as well? With these multi-function monitors, you not only get an LCD monitor, you even get an LCD TV. Built with their own TV tuners, the 2333HD, T240HD and T260HD monitors allow you to plug in your cable connection for the ultimate balance of work and leisure.

Promo starts February 1 and ends March 31, 2010. Grab your Samsung LCD monitor now!

Samsung sure wasn’t kidding when they said they’d revolutionize home entertainment viewing. That up there is their new C9000 3D HDTV and yes, it really is that slim! It has 3D support, a number of USB and HDMI slots on the base, and the remote can even function as a mini smartphone that views streaming media from other sources. No word on the actual dimensions and price of this fine gadget, but I bet it will cost thousands of dollars and dominate a living room.

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Remember when I said that CES 2010 will be showcasing 3D HDTVs? It turns out that Samsung is one of the companies who will be releasing a 3D device lineup. For these innovations, the Consumer Electronics Association awarded Samsung with 23 CES 2010 Innovation Awards, including three Best of Innovations: three eco-design honors, three LED HDTVs, one Plasma HDTV, three Blu-ray players, one home theater system, two digital audio players, two digital cameras, one refrigerator, six mobile phones and one monitor for multi display. That’s a lot of awards!

But I’m interested in 3D technology, as this is clearly going to revolutionize home entertainment. This year, Samsung will be delivering the first complete 3D ecosystem, with an advanced 3D television, sophisticated 3D Blu-ray player, stylish active shutter 3D glasses and a home theater system. The full 3D product lineup includes the LED 9000, LED 8000 and LED 7000 as well as LCD and plasma televisions and Blu-ray players. These all are compatible with multiple 3D standards including half and full HD resolution formats, as well as the Blu-ray Disc Associate ratified “Blu-ray 3D” standard. So consumers will know that all their 3D devices will work together perfectly. Samsung will deliver the industry’s best 3D image quality due to its custom-designed 3D chip from Samsung’s semiconductor division. To customize the home viewing experience, Samsung also unveiled Samsung Apps, the world’s first HDTV-based application store. Users can download and purchase applications from select 2010 Samsung HDTVs, Blu-ray Players and Home Theater systems via the upgraded Internet@TV feature.

Santa, I think I know what I want for Christmas this year.