Samsung, Sony Invest $2B in S-LCD JV

Online staff -- Electronic News, 4/10/2006

Samsung Electronics Co. LTD and Sony Corp. today announced they will invest $2 billion on manufacturing the next generation of amorphous TFT LCD panels at their joint venture, S-LCD Corp.

S-LCD, which is currently manufacturing 7th generation amorphous TFT LCD panels, will manufacture 8th generation amorphous TFT LCD panels measuring approximately 2.2 meters by 2.5 meters at its factory in Tangjeong, Chung Cheong Nam-Do, Korea.

Actual production is targeted to start in fall 2007, with a planned production capacity of 50,000 panels per month.

By launching a production line for 8th generation amorphous TFT LCD panels, Samsung said it will target further business expansion in the LCD panel market for LCD TVs. Sony will continue to focus on cost-competitive and high-quality large screen products targeting an expansion of its LCD TV business, the companies added in their statement.

The duo has inked a letter of intent and plans to sign a definitive agreement by the end of June.