Philips today introduced the Mirror TV, a versatile 17-, 23- or 30-inch LCD display integrated into a mirror. The Mirror TV uses a unique polarized mirror technology, which transfers close to 100 percent of the light through the reflective surface. It is the first product created at the Philips HomeLab, the company’s research incubator for future electronic products and technologies, to reach the commercial market. The Mirror TV, which was demonstrated for the media in New York and Europe today, is ideal for non-traditional viewing spaces when it is installed flush to the wall

Philips decided to commercialize the product after testing a more sophisticated prototype with more than 200 consumers in its HomeLab research facility, a fully functioning two-bedroom home that doubles as a scientific laboratory. Philips HomeLab enables researchers to observe (with 34 hidden cameras and an observation area) how people interact with new devices. Consumers who used the Mirror TV prototype appreciated the ability to watch the news and traffic while also shaving or brushing their teeth.

Philips, the world’s largest supplier of television display solutions for the hotel industry, initially plans to market the Mirror TV to hotels, but also sees a market for the product in customized home environments within the next few years.

“The Mirror TV is an important step forward for consumer technologies, and for Philips,” said Dr. Gottfried Dutiné, CEO of Philips Consumer Electronics, “From a technology perspective, the Mirror TV craftily combines two important everyday functionalities; it’s also an early example of the Philips vision of Ambient Intelligence in that the ‘technology’ is embedded and easy to use. Having been tested with ‘real’ people in the HomeLab, the Mirror TV also signifies Philips’ ongoing commitment to understanding consumers—and providing products and devices that meet their needs.”

Mirror TV Enhances Aesthetics and Utilizes Space
Philips Mirror TV provides the solution to the ever-shrinking spaces in hotels and retail environments. The design hides the electronics, giving spaces an architecturally refined display and enhancing the upscale ambiance that hotels and retail environments strive to provide guests.
At up to 30 inches, the Mirror TV could be placed on the wall as a centerpiece.