### Mega-Sized TVs Gaining Popularity as Prices Fall and Technology Improves

In today’s tech world, the preference for bigger screens is increasingly evident among television viewers. The once massive 65-inch TVs have been superseded by screens spanning over 8 feet, just in time for the holiday shopping season. These enormous TVs, wider than a standard sofa or king-size bed, are hitting the market with a surge of interest.

Despite large screens accounting for only 1.7% of total TV sales revenue in the U.S. from January to September, the demand is noted to spike during holiday seasons such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. The jump in sales is promising, with 38.1 million TVs sold this year, marking a tenfold increase from the previous year.

Major retailers like Best Buy have recognized this trend and expanded their collection of extra-large TVs. The retailer now offers 19 models, ranging from $2,000 to $25,000, in about 70% of their stores. Best Buy’s senior vice president of merchandising, Blake Hampton, mentioned that the trend has gained significant momentum in 2023.

Television analysts attribute this rising interest to advancements in technology and falling prices. This year's average price for TVs 97 inches or larger stands at $3,113, down from $6,662 last year. Samsung, a leading South Korean electronics manufacturer, released its first 98-inch TV in 2019 with a colossal price tag of $99,000. Today, Samsung offers four different models starting at $4,000.

Consumers like Anthony Ash of Bristol, Wisconsin, are embracing the trend. Ash recently upgraded to a 98-inch Sony TV, costing about $5,000, for his 14,000-square-foot home. The larger screen replaced an 85-inch TV, enhancing his viewing experience as he enjoys his array of 17 televisions.

Several factors are driving this shift, including the extensive use of cellphones and tablets to stream media. Television sales dropped overall by 4% in revenue, despite a 1% increase in units sold over the same period. According to Rick Kowalski from the Consumer Technology Association, the average size of flat-panel TVs shipped to U.S. retailers has grown by one inch annually over the past 15 years.

The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, with 85-inch TVs gaining popularity. The current year shows increasing shipments of 98-inch TVs, with even larger models up to 115 inches available. This technological progress allows for better picture quality and resolution, contributing to the growing appeal of big screens.

Best Buy’s Hampton highlighted the extraordinary experience offered by colossal TVs, such as watching multiple shows simultaneously on one screen. Samsung has integrated features in its 98-inch TVs to enhance sharpness and reduce visual noise, aiming to improve the viewer's overall experience.

As demands grow, other major retailers like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Chicago's Abt Electronics are also expanding their ranges to meet consumer preferences. With improved features and better viewing experiences, these supersized TVs are gradually overshadowing traditional home theater projectors.

James Fishler of Samsung's U.S. division pointed out that watching TV is evolving into a more shared and immersive experience. Manufacturers are catering to buyers across different generations, from millennials to Gen Z, all looking to elevate their home entertainment setups.

Though interest in massive TVs is growing, it remains a niche market. Jon Abt, co-president of Abt Electronics, noted the practical limitations, such as available space, can deter some buyers. Best Buy has even included features in their app to help customers visualize whether these giant screens will fit within their homes.

For those wondering about the ideal viewing distance, a 98-inch TV requires just 6-12 feet, making it a feasible upgrade for many households. As technology continues to evolve, the boundaries of screen sizes in the TV department are likely to expand even further.