AUSTIN, TEXAS, June 15, 2009—DisplaySearch’s latest research indicates that the TV IC shipments declined seasonally to 30.8 million units for flat panel TVs in Q1’09, according to its Quarterly TV Electronics Report. Shipments were down by 4.3% Q/Q, but up 11% Y/Y. This is in line with seasonal trends and with the maturing of the flat panel TV market as developed markets have completed the switch from CRT TVs.

 

“Concerns over the economic outlook caused set-makers to slash inventory in 2008,” noted Paul Gray, Director of Europe TV Market Research. “Despite this, sales in developed regions have remained resilient, and there is some inventory re-build to support ongoing market levels.”

DisplaySearch’s results also indicate that continued industry consolidation has resulted in an increased share for top-tier IC vendors. At the same time, the real expansion of the flat panel TV market is now in emerging regions and in price-fighter models in mature markets. Specifically, Micronas completed the sale of its FRC, Audio and Demod product lines to Trident, with the remainder of its consumer business (including the TV SoC business) ceasing by the end of the year. In addition, NEC and Renesas announced an intention to merge, and AMD’s TV IC business completed its first quarter as part of Broadcom.

Table 1: Top TV System IC Vendors

Source: Q1’09 Quarterly TV Electronics Report