Sharp to Release World's Thinnest 4K Monitor

Sharp is planning on selling what it believes is the computer monitor industry's thinnest 4K computer monitor ever. The device itself is a 32", LCD computer monitor that measures only 3.5mm thick and is expected to come out in February, 2013. In addition to that, Sharp said that the new monitor would cost nearly ¥450,000, or roughly $5,500, when it is released in Japan.

The monitor uses Sharp's new IGZO technology and is capable of displaying up to 3,840 x 2,160 pixels, which is equivalent to four full 1080p HD screens. According to spokeswoman for Sharp Miyuki Nakayama, "We are hoping to launch around the same time globally. This is aimed at computer designers, architects, medical users - those types of people."

The monitor will come with dual HDMI hookups, allowing you to connect both your PC and a Blu-ray player or gaming console and even has hookups for external speakers. Sharp is promoting IGZO display technology, which gains its name from the indium gallium zinc oxide semiconductor on which it is based. Sharp will also launch its first smartphone and tablet devices with the same technology in Japan. Two of the main features of this technology are the low energy consumption and prolonged battery life for mobile devices.

Sharp also said that using this technology in the new monitor allows for an extra-thin design die to the fact that the technology requires less backlighting than other methods and can be "edge lit" to avoid bulkiness. Sharp initiated mass production of IGZO screens earlier in 2012.

Television makers across the world are slowly distributing 4K televisions, though there is little in the way of appliances. Sony has already announced that it is planning on revealing the world's first 4K Ultra HD delivery solution while offering exclusive Hollywood content to buyers.

Source: PC World - Sharp to launch world's thinnest 4K monitor for about $5,500