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New 58- and 50-inch plasmas will include 802.11n wi-fi capability. A base station would accept wired signals from source components. The base station would then relay them wirelessly to the TV. "The only wiring required for the TV," notes TWICE, "is the power cord." The 50-inch version will sell for $4500, starting in October, or about $600 more than a regular plasma. Pricing for the 58-incher is not available.

At the same press event last week, Samsung also showed LCD DTVs with LED backlighting in lieu of the usual fluorescent backlighting. Using LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, is said to enhance performance and extend the lifespan of the sets.

For model details see Engadget HD coverage. Rumor has it that Samsung is also fending off a possible takeover by corporate raider Carl Icahn.