Samsung's new $1,500 TV: Ugly or artsy?

Samsung has a polarizing 4K LED TV that will finally make its way into the US market in August. Nothing about the TV's functionality or quality is suspect, as this is Samsung, after all. In fact, the device has the usual smart functions such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and built-in apps. However, it is the design that some consider too ugly for a $1,500 TV. The model was designed by two French artists. It is built into a frame that is a bit wider on the top and bottom, giving it the look of the letter "I" in a serif font, hence the name Serif TV.

Why is this polarizing? While some people appreciate the aesthetic, others have complained about the TV having too large of a bezel. Most screens these days are working to minimize the frame. Yet, TV makers are looking for new ways to distinguish themselves in a market that has been blighted by the collapse of panel prices following overproduction of LCDs. Samsung excels in LED display production, so it makes sense that its foray into artistic TV sets would be an LED TV.

Consumers might still be put off by the price tag given that the screen is only 40in and other 4K TVs can be had for less. If consumers find it ugly, it is just one more excuse not to buy the Serif. Other TV manufacturers are sticking with LCD for now precisely because it gives them a price advantage as they look to innovate in other ways. Vizio introduced its concept of a smart TV this year with the P-Series. These LCD TVs use an Android tablet as a remote that can stream content from the Internet to the small screen. They also start at $1,000 for a 50in model. When it comes to TV innovation, it might be best not to mess with the design too much. It seems like giant black screens are themselves elegant enough for most people's living rooms.