VIZIO just launched a 65” 3D edge-lit LED LCD HDTV (with Internet Apps) — you’ve probably seen it advertised already on TV. VIZIO’s 3D solution, however, is unique as it uses a battery-free 3D glasses technology (yes, “active shutter” technology). Called the XVT3D650SV, it started shipping in December at Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club stores and online with a suggested member value of $3,499.99. This is going to make it hard for HomeAV integrators to justify $6000 60” HDTVs so you’ll likely see the prices drop on 60” LCDs by month’s end to around $4500 or lower.

In other VIZIO news, at CES they launched a 21:9 aspect ratio line of LCDs (well, two models at first) that are 3D capable. With a native resolution of 2560×1980, the two models are 50” (XVT3D500CM) and 58” (XVT3D580CM), claim a 10,000:1 contrast ratio and include Bluetooth integration for control and a host of other features via Wi-Fi. Part of the new Cinema HDTV line, these two 21:9 aspect ratio models can display 2.35:1 (“CinemaScope”) movies without any black bars. As you know, well over 95 percent of all HDTVs are 16:9, or 1.78:1, and a resolution of 1,920×1,080 often referred to as 1080p Full HD.  Quite honestly, no one in high-end ProAV world likely cares about VIZIO launching a phone, but a tablet’s another story. Last week, they launched a Google Android-based tablet, known as VIA, that features a 1 GHz processor, with an 8″ high-resolution capacitive touch screen, 802.11n Wi-Fi (nope, no 3G) and Bluetooth connectivity,

GPS, a MicroSD card slot for additional memory expansion, HDMI output with HD video playback, and a front-facing camera for video chats. It also boasts a unique three-speaker design for stereo audio in both portrait and landscape modes. Most notably, however, is that it’s preloaded with a control interface for their own VIZIO line of TVs, Blu-ray players and other AV gear – and it’s also capable of running any and all Android Apps.  If you want to learn more about any of these launches, go here: http://www.vizio.com/