LG looks to Hollywood for 3D content

LG Electronics, one of the world's leading makers of consumer electronics products, is looking to partner with several Hollywood studios in an attempt to boost content for its three-dimensional (3D) televisions. LG, which trails only Samsung Electronics in the manufacture of flat-screen televisions, is talking with Paramount, Fox, Sony Pictures, Walt Disney, Universal Studios and Warner Brothers to use their stereoscopic content, company officials said. ``We've seen substantial progresses for such business talks with the six Hollywood studios. An official announcement will be made soon,'' said a high-ranking LG executive, who is close to the negotiations. LG spokesman Yoon Won-il declined to confirm the talks. Along with ``smart'' televisions with Internet connectivity, 3D television has been touted to replace conventional liquid crystal display (LCD) television as the standard for the future. To improve its sales of 3D televisions, LG has been looking to add wealth to its pool of content. Inking partnerships with Hollywood studios will also help LG provide a stronger foundation for its smart televisions, company officials said. Kwon Hee-won, who heads LG's television business, said earlier this year that the company is seeking broader alliances with content providers to promote its own smart television platform, NetCast. ``LG Electronics is expanding the number of countries that offer our Web-enabled TV services to 120 from North America, Europe to South America. We are hoping to enjoy first-mover advantage,'' said the LG executive. LG expects global sales of Web-connected televisions to more than double this year and account for 10 percent of the entire flat-screen market. However, lavish price tags have been preventing the products from hitting the mainstream. ``The products are still 30 to 50 percent more expensive than conventional flat-screen products and it's hard to say that prices will be falling any time soon. However, the entry of more products will stoke competition,'' said the LG executive. koreatimes.co.kr