Fact Check: Are LCD TVs still made?

Are LCD TVs Still Made?

The claim in question is whether LCD TVs are still being manufactured. This inquiry arises amid evolving technologies in the television market, particularly the rise of OLED and other advanced display technologies.

What We Know

1. Market Trends: According to a report from Counterpoint Research, while the advanced TV market faced challenges in 2023, it is expected to recover starting in 2024. The report indicates that advanced LCD TV units increased by 4% year-over-year in 2023, with a projected growth rate of 8% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) from 2023 to 2027, reaching approximately 20.7 million units by 2027 1.

2. Panel Shipments: Data from Statista forecasts a 3.4% increase in LCD TV panel shipments worldwide between 2023 and 2024, estimating that shipments will reach 242 million units 3. This suggests that manufacturers are still producing LCD TVs in significant quantities.

3. Market Dynamics: A report from Display Daily highlights that major TV manufacturers like Samsung and LG have reported profits in early 2023, attributing part of this recovery to lower costs for LCD TV panels 5. This indicates ongoing production and sales of LCD TVs despite a competitive market.

4. Emerging Technologies: The market is also seeing a shift towards more advanced technologies, such as QD-OLED and miniLED displays, which are being marketed alongside traditional LCD TVs. However, the demand for LCD TVs remains strong, particularly for mid-range models 68.

5. Future Projections: A market analysis predicts that the global LCD TV panel market will grow from approximately $54.77 billion in 2024 to $62.41 billion by 2030, driven by demand for larger and smarter TVs 2.

Analysis

The evidence suggests that LCD TVs are indeed still being manufactured and sold, albeit in a market that is increasingly competitive due to the introduction of newer technologies.

• Source Reliability: The sources cited include market research firms like Counterpoint and Statista, which are generally considered reliable due to their data-driven approaches. However, it is essential to note that market forecasts can be influenced by various factors, including economic conditions and consumer preferences, which may not always be predictable.

• Potential Bias: Some sources, particularly those from industry analysts, may have a vested interest in portraying a positive outlook for LCD TVs to support their clients or stakeholders in the industry. For example, reports from manufacturers may emphasize growth to attract investors or reassure consumers.

• Methodological Concerns: While the data presented is quantitative, the methodologies behind these forecasts are not always transparent. Understanding the assumptions made in these projections would provide a clearer picture of their reliability. For instance, how do these forecasts account for potential disruptions in supply chains or shifts in consumer preferences?

• Contradicting Evidence: Some reports indicate a decline in LCD TV shipments, suggesting that while production continues, the overall demand may be waning as consumers gravitate towards newer technologies 10. This presents a complex picture of a market in transition rather than outright decline.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence supports the conclusion that LCD TVs are still being manufactured and sold in significant quantities. Key evidence includes market reports indicating an increase in LCD TV unit sales and panel shipments, as well as the profitability of major manufacturers attributed to LCD technology. Despite the rise of advanced display technologies, the demand for LCD TVs, particularly in the mid-range market, remains robust.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the television market is in a state of transition. While current data suggests ongoing production, future trends may shift as consumer preferences evolve and newer technologies gain traction. Additionally, the reliability of market forecasts can be influenced by various unpredictable factors, including economic conditions and supply chain dynamics.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the nuances and limitations of the evidence before drawing their own conclusions.

Sources

1. Counterpoint Research. "After a Miserable 2023, Recovery for Advanced TV Market Expected to Start in 2024 with Long-Term Growth Projected." Link
2. PR Newswire. "LCD TV Panel Market Size, Share & Trends (2024-2030)." Link
3. Statista. "LCD TV panel vendor shipments worldwide 2023-2024." Link
4. Display Daily. "TV Manufacturers Experience Rebound in Profits Amid Falling LCD Panel Prices." Link
5. Display Daily. "2023 Market Update: TCL and Hisense Gain Ground as OLED and MiniLED Redefine Advanced TV Landscape." Link
6. Omdia. "Samsung and LG Electronics will reshape their LCD TV panel supply portfolios in 2024." Link
7. Wiley Online Library. "Advanced Displays, Materials Market Trends, and Unsettled Challenges." Link
8. Omdia. "Large-area LCD shipment 3Q23 results and 2023 forecast." Link
9. TrendForce. "Shipments of TV Panels Are Projected to Drop by 2.8% YoY for 2023." Link