Vizio wants ultra HDTVs (4K) for the masses

Vizio is showcasing its latest HDTV lineup at CES in Las Vegas, including the M-Series Razor LED Smart TVs with an ultra-slim bezel and ultra-thin profile.

“The ultra-thin bezels of the M-Series virtually vanish next to the near edge-to-edge glass screen,” explained Vizio exec Scott McManigal.

“Unique interior metal construction in the base and neck adds stability while a beautifully finished exterior complements the design and helps set the new standard for affordable HDTV luxury.”

Additional M-series Razor specs include Wi-Fi Direct universal remote controls with backlit keys, advanced local dimming, 240Hz refresh rate with Smooth Motion for the 50″ and larger models and a brighter, flicker-free Theater 3D experience with lightweight, battery-free glasses.

As expected, the M-Series also supports a number of Internet apps, including Amazon Instant Video, Crackle, Facebook, HuluPlus, M-Go, Netflix, Pandora, VUDU and YouTube.

The M-Series are currently available in screen sizes of 32″ (M321i), 40″ (M401i), 47″ (M471i), 50″ (M501d), 55″ (M551d), 60″ (M601d), 65″ (M651d), 70″ (M701d) and 80″ (M801d).

In addition to its lineup of M-Series Razor LED Smart HDTVs, VIZIO is also showcasing its first Ultra HDTVs with an effective refresh rate of 240 Hz and 4x the resolution of full HD 1080p on screens measuring 55″ (XVT551d), 65″ (XVT651d) and 70″ (XVT701d).

Although pricing for the Ultra HDTV sets has yet to be announced, reports indicate Vizio is pushing to make 4k more accessible to the masses. Nevertheless, the 4K sets won’t be considered cheap or even affordable anytime soon, as competing sets currently retail for around $30,000. Perhaps Vizio can beat the price by a few thousand dollars, but clearly, we are at least a few years away from sets that will carry mainstream price tags.