LG Electronics is known for introducing experimental products (see the Wing smartphone), and its latest “TV” entry straddles that fine line between bizarre and brilliant.
LG unveiled StanbyME Go, a portable 27-inch touchscreen TV in a suitcase that lets customers travel with their big screen.
It’s for anyone who thinks a smartphone or tablet screen is too small even on the go, and can’t bear to be apart from a TV.
“Content viewing is no longer confined to the living room or even the home, but until now, consumers have had to sacrifice screen size in favor of portability,” said David Park, head of HE product marketing. “LG StanbyME Go makes the full-scale viewing experience travel-friendly and offers a versatile option for streaming, listening, remote working, and more.”
StanbyME Go has a portable 27-inch LED Full HD resolution touchscreen built into a durable briefcase with pocket storage to carry accessories. The case measures 4.6 inches x 26.3 inches x 17 inches and weighs 32 pounds, which is quite hefty compared to laptops and tablets. LG says its suitcase is ideal for travel and camping, though frequent flyers might prefer to bring a lighter, less bulky device.
The tablet is installed with LG’s webOS software and supports Bluetooth, WiFi, and voice commands to change channels or search content, so it is meant more as a smart TV vs. an Android tablet. Instead of a tuner, StanbyME Go users can watch by casting content from their phone, using WiFi, or connecting to HDMI to view videos.
The screen is attached to a stand that raises and rotates from landscape to portrait mode for streaming movies. You can also lay it flat inside the suitcase to listen to music, play video games, or apps like chess and checkers.
The device has built-in 20-watt speakers that adapt to the screen’s position. The tablet also supports Dolby Vision video and two four-channel Dolby Atmos stereo speakers. The built-in battery lasts up to three hours, depending on network connection and app use.
The StanbyME Go Smart Touch Screen is available for pre-order and costs $999.99. LG includes a free XBOOM 360 Bluetooth Speaker valued at $249.99 with any purchase made through August 27. Pre-orders will start shipping on August 28, though the company said some orders may be delayed until the week of October 9 due to high demand.