Market research firm iSuppli has raised its expectations for the LCD television market.

According to the company, growth in acceptance of LCD screens among consumers, together with falling prices, has helped to boost the market.

As a result, iSuppli has adjusted its forecast for the shipment of LCD screens over the coming years, increasing its predictions of growth from 2006 through to 2009.

Issuing its third quarter forecast, the company stated that it now expects worldwide LCD TV sales to increase to 61.2 million units by 2009, compared with an estimate of 55.1 million units by 2009 suggested by iSuppli in the second quarter.

The change in its estimations was largely influenced by the fact that 2005 has seen the commencement of production at four or more sixth-generation (6G) fabrication plants, which are well-suited to delivering 30- to 34-inch panels.

As such, the larger panels are anticipated to drive the market, as their production will be achieved more economically at these fabrication plants.

Riddhi Patel, senior analyst of television systems at iSuppli, explained: "[P]anel makers are expanding their production capacities to fuel demand and encourage greater adoption."


Ÿ Adfero Ltd