Is it a picture frame? A board game? A portable advertising board? Or is it a TV? The answer is all of the above, as LG’s innovative StanbyMe 2 TV concept evolves, reshaping the conventional understanding of what a television can be.
Traditionally, the idea of carrying a TV around seems impractical. After all, why would anyone need to, given the prevalence of portable screens like phones, tablets, and laptops? Yet, these devices, despite their convenience, lack the expansive display that a television provides. Even the largest tablets and laptops fall short of delivering the immersive experience of a TV screen.
The Evolution of Portable TVs
In 2023, LG introduced a groundbreaking concept: a portable TV on a stand, whimsically named the StanbyMe. This 27-inch TV, designed to be mobile, marked a significant departure from traditional stationary models. A subsequent innovation, the StanbyMe Go, took this concept further by integrating the TV into a briefcase, emphasizing portability.
Fast forward to 2025, and LG is poised to merge these ideas with the StanbyMe 2. This new model not only retains the portability of its predecessors but also incorporates features that position it as a competitor to Samsung’s The Frame, known for its art-like aesthetics. The StanbyMe 2 offers a 27-inch touchscreen with a built-in four-hour battery, support for webOS and apps, HDMI, Apple AirPlay, Google Chromecast, and a Quad HD resolution of 2560×1440.
Features and Flexibility
The StanbyMe 2 is not just another TV; it is a flexible multimedia device. It functions as a TV on a stand, a flat board game system thanks to its touchscreen, and can even be hung on the wall as a piece of art. Its versatility extends to showcasing signs, making it a multifunctional tool for various environments.
LG enhances this flexibility with an app for drawing, games, and preloaded visuals, complemented by a virtual sound system. The inclusion of a Dolby Atmos 9.1.2 system with Dolby Vision HDR support ensures a premium audio-visual experience.
“We recognise the growing demand for technology that adapts to modern viewing habits and flexible living environments and that’s why we engineered the StanbyMe 2,” said Tony Brown, General Manager of the Entertainment and Content Business at LG in Australia and New Zealand.
Brown further emphasized, “It delivers practical portability while maintaining the premium viewing experiences LG is known for. It’s designed to be a versatile companion for modern homes – a flexible screen solution that easily integrates into different aspects of the day, ensuring entertainment is both convenient and high-quality.”
Market Position and Future Outlook
The StanbyMe 2 enters the market with a price tag of $2199, reflecting its advanced features and versatility. Unlike many other IFA 2025 announcements, this product has a confirmed release date, with availability in Australia expected later this month.
This development follows a growing trend in consumer electronics toward devices that blend functionality with aesthetics. The StanbyMe 2’s ability to transform from a TV to an art piece or a gaming device illustrates a shift in consumer expectations, where technology must adapt to diverse lifestyles.
Expert Opinions and Industry Impact
Industry experts note that LG’s innovation could influence future TV designs, encouraging other manufacturers to explore similar multifunctional concepts. The emphasis on portability and adaptability aligns with broader trends in technology, where devices increasingly serve multiple purposes.
According to tech analyst Sarah Collins, “The StanbyMe 2 represents a significant leap in the evolution of home entertainment. It challenges the traditional TV model and offers a glimpse into the future of integrated technology solutions.”
Conclusion and Implications
As LG’s StanbyMe 2 prepares to hit the market, it not only offers a new way to think about televisions but also sets a precedent for future innovations in the industry. By addressing the need for flexibility and integration in modern living spaces, LG is paving the way for a new era of consumer electronics.
With its release, consumers and industry watchers alike will be keen to see how this novel concept is received and how it might inspire further advancements in the realm of portable and multifunctional technology.
