Among the LCD TV models to be rolled out will be a 42" panel which will replace the Pioneer 42" plasma panel that the company announced this week would be discontinued. The move is also good news for Sharp who are also set to manufacture Bravia LCD TVs for Sony. The announcement is set to be made in Japan on March 7th to coincide with the company's 4th quarter 2008 financial results which are not expected to be good.
During the past two quarters and despite the plasma market growing by 62% Pioneer's share has declined by 39% according to DisplaySearch. The move into LCD TV will allow the company to trade off their brand which is well regarded in the consumer electronics market.