Is it a picture frame? A board game? A portable advertising board? Or is it a TV? It’s everything, as LG’s portable StanbyMe TV concept continues to evolve, reshaping the possibilities of what a television can be. This innovative device is set to redefine how we perceive and use TVs, offering a blend of portability and functionality that challenges traditional norms.
LG’s StanbyMe 2, launching in 2025, is the latest iteration of this groundbreaking concept. The device features 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. While it doesn’t offer 4K resolution, the QHD provides a superior experience to Full HD, which is more than sufficient for a screen of this size.
The Evolution of Portable TV Technology
The announcement comes as LG continues to push the boundaries of television technology. Back in 2023, LG introduced the original StanbyMe, a portable TV on a stand with a quirky name. The concept was simple yet revolutionary: a 27-inch TV that could be moved around easily, offering a new level of flexibility in home entertainment.
This development follows the introduction of the StanbyMe Go, a similar concept housed in a briefcase for added portability. Now, with the StanbyMe 2, LG is merging these ideas to create a device that not only fits on a stand but can also be used as a wall-mounted display, akin to Samsung’s The Frame series, which doubles as a piece of art when not in use.
Features and Versatility
What sets the StanbyMe 2 apart is its versatility. It functions as a traditional TV on a stand, but when removed, it transforms into a flat board game system thanks to its touchscreen capabilities. Additionally, it can be hung on the wall as a piece of digital art or used to display signs, making it a multifunctional device for modern living spaces.
LG has also included an app for drawing, games, and preloaded visuals. The device supports a virtual sound system using a Dolby Atmos 9.1.2 system with Dolby Vision HDR, ensuring an immersive audio-visual experience. According to Tony Brown, General Manager of the Entertainment and Content Business at LG in Australia and New Zealand,
“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.”
Market Implications and Future Prospects
The move represents LG’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in the consumer electronics market. As Tony Brown further elaborates,
“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.”
Meanwhile, the StanbyMe 2 is set to enter the market with a price tag of $2199, reflecting its premium features and capabilities. Unlike many other announcements at the IFA 2025, this product has a confirmed release date, with availability expected later this month in Australia.
Looking Ahead
As technology continues to advance, the demand for devices that offer both flexibility and high-quality performance is likely to grow. LG’s StanbyMe 2 is poised to meet this demand, offering a unique solution that caters to the evolving needs of consumers. The implications of this development could influence future designs and concepts in the television industry, encouraging other manufacturers to explore similar innovations.
In conclusion, LG’s StanbyMe 2 is more than just a TV; it is a testament to the company’s vision for the future of home entertainment. As it hits the market, it will be interesting to see how consumers respond to this new level of portability and versatility in a television.
