LG’s New TV Is Designed for Simpler Senior Living
▼ Summary
– LG has launched a specialized TV in South Korea with a simplified interface, larger fonts, and fewer apps to make it easier for elderly users to operate.
– The TV includes tailored picture and sound enhancements for seniors and a built-in camera for video calls with family members.
– It features programmable reminder pop-ups for tasks like taking medication and is based on the LG QNED85A Mini LED 4K Smart TV model.
– The Easy TV is initially available in 65-inch and 75-inch sizes in South Korea, with future plans to expand to other aging markets like the US.
– The redesigned remote has a larger font and helpful buttons but is criticized for still having too many buttons compared to competitors’ simpler remotes.
Navigating the complexities of modern technology can be a significant challenge for many seniors, which is why LG has developed a new television specifically for elderly users. The LG Easy TV, currently launching in South Korea, addresses common frustrations by offering a streamlined interface with a simplified home screen. This approach uses larger fonts and a curated selection of apps to reduce confusion and make everyday use more intuitive.
Beyond the interface, the television incorporates thoughtful adjustments to picture and sound, enhancing brightness and voice clarity to better suit the sensory needs of older adults. A built-in camera facilitates easy video calls with family members, while programmable pop-up reminders can prompt users to take medication or complete simple tasks like watering plants. The entire system is designed to foster independence and connectivity.
The hardware for the Easy TV is based on the LG QNED Evo QNED85A Mini LED 4K Smart TV. It will be available in two sizes: a 65-inch model priced at approximately $1,965 and a 75-inch version for around $2,746. While the initial release is focused on the South Korean market, LG has indicated plans to introduce the model to other regions with aging populations, including the United States, though a specific timeline has not been announced.
!Image: LG The Easy TV’s remote features a larger font and a simplified design, but it still includes a lot of buttons.
Recognizing that remote controls are often a major point of difficulty, LG has also re-engineered the accompanying remote. It features a larger, easier-to-read font and includes dedicated buttons for critical functions. A prominent “Help” button serves a dual purpose: it can be used to contact family in an emergency or to quickly return to the last watched channel if the input is accidentally changed. An AI button allows for voice-activated searches, providing a hands-free alternative to typing.
However, despite these improvements, the remote retains a considerable number of buttons, more than what is typically found on devices from competitors like Roku or Apple. For individuals who have resorted to taping over unused buttons on a standard remote to simplify it for their elders, the design may still feel somewhat cluttered. Eliminating some of the dedicated streaming service buttons could be a logical next step to further reduce complexity and prevent accidental activations.
(Source: The Verge)
