The launch of Time Machine 2 is expected to further consolidate the digital leader's position in the LCD TV segment which witnessed LG earning US$115 million in the Middle East and Africa in the first half of 2007.

A top LG official explained that since the launch of the first Time Machine TV, consumer demands have changed with the shifting of broadcasting technology from analog to digital. The result was a higher emphasis on digital display, which provided consumers with the ability to watch their favourite programmes at leisure and with a more sophisticated choice of viewing.

'Over the last year, we have witnessed a tremendous growth in LCD and plasma TVs, which is an indication of how tech-savvy consumers have become,' said Mr. K.W. Kim, President of LG Electronics - Middle East and Africa. 'Rather than opting for bulky, traditional televisions, we are now seeing a shift towards sleek and innovative styles in technology.'

The 'Time Machine' LCD TV is available in 42 and 50 inches and is the world's first television to be equipped with a built-in 80 GB Digital Video Recorder (DVR). The advanced 'Time Machine' feature allows users to pause, record and replay TV programs just minutes after the original broadcast.

Distinguishing the Time Machine 2 from its predecessor is the additional USB 2.0 port, which allows viewers to connect the TV to their laptops, monitors and other digital display devices.

The one-touch commercial skip features blocks out unwanted commercials with a touch of a button. The units also boast of continuous automatic recording in one-hour intervals. A built-in 80GB hard drive can store up to 40 hours of digital standard-definition programming, eliminating the need for external storage devices.

'LG enjoys a 15 per cent market share for LCD TVs, and is ranked No. 2 in the regional market. We expect regional sales to grow significantly as the demand for flat screen televisions increase. LG's LCD TV sales grew by 300 per cent in the first half of 2007 and we expect to double the market share by the end of the year,' Kim added.

The 'Time Machine' TVs boasts of LG's exclusive XD? Engine that improves brightness, contrast, and 3D colour control. It also offers sharpness enhancement and 3D noise reduction, and the XDS and SRS/BBE Sound System delivers cinematic surround sound.

Clear Filter technology minimises dullness and eliminates the double image reflection of glass filter TVs. The LG DVR PDP's High Definition Multimedia Interface also does away with multiple wires in favour of a single cable for all functions.

Mr. Kim added:
"LG aims to become the number one player in the global display market by 2010. To achieve this, LG will secure the largest production capability in plasma panels from its four major plants in Mexico, Poland, China and Korea. LG will also build on its region-specific R&D efforts and localised marketing.'

The new products will be available through LG's channel partners at GITEX Shopper 2007, which runs at the Airport Expo Dubai from September 6 to 13. In celebration of its new launches, LG is also offering buyers of its products the opportunity to win fabulous prizes including Mercedes cars, 32-inch plasma TVs and MP3 players.

LG unveiled a mega-promotion aiming at the customers of UAE, Oman and Qatar, titled 'The Life's Good Experience'. The promotion offers huge prizes to potential LG customers for buying LG display or media products during GITEX and Ramadan.