Philips Unveils Designer Lines, Rhapsody Deal

By John Laposky -- TWICE, 1/7/2008 6:13:00 PM

Las Vegas — Philips used its press conference at International CES to formally introduce its newly consolidated consumer lifestyle business sector and the unit’s first two initiatives: a new Design Collection of home theater products and a collaboration with Rhapsody.

Commenting on the Design Collection, Andrea Ragnetti, Philips’ new consumer lifestyle CEO, said, “Consumers have shared with us their desire for products with a simpler and softer, more sophisticated design — something that touches the heart as well as the head. What used to be a consumer electronic device is now a signature piece of furniture that helps define personal style and space.”

The new design was evident in Philips' new 52-inch Ultimate Dream TV (52PFL7603D), introduced by Stewart Muller, consumer lifestyles senior VP. The LCD model is the centerpiece of a three-tiered line of ultra-thin flat panels, released in Europe last summer under the Aurea label, featuring rounded edges and a clear, curved bezel that hides an “invisible” speaker system. The sound is driven from a subwoofer and speaker located on the back of the panel. The cupped surface of the bezel projects the sound forward, according to Muller. (For details on the TV line, see TWICE, Jan. 7, p. 6.)

Philips’ partnership with Rhapsody, the online subscription-based streaming-music service from RealNetworks, will bundle a Rhapsody subscription with Philips’ portable GoGear MP3 players and Streamium home audio products. Rhapsody and Philips will offer an “all-you-can-eat plan” allowing consumers the choice to explore tracks to download or refresh anywhere there is an Internet access point. The Rhapsody service is available in the United States and Europe.

Also shown under the Designer Collection banner were two new Ambisound bar-type sound systems (HTS6100 and HTS6515D), the new BTM630 Bluetooth audio microsystem (see p. 43) as well as the company’s latest Blu-ray Disc player, the BDP7200 (see p. 115).

Philips also added color to its Active Crystal accessories line. The wearable USB drives and fashion ear buds encrusted with Swarovski crystals are now available in lilac and will hit retail in time for Valentine’s Day.