Hey, I heard about that. I would like to know more about that.
LCOS. Liquid Crystal on Silicon. Similar in concept to a 3-chip DLP.
I am wondering if this will be unique to Sony or if it is a big enough advancement that other makers will adopt it as a standard.
JVC also uses its own implementation of LCOS, called D-ILA.
LCOS is uses a more complicated chip than the Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) of DLP systems. Intel planned to get into the LCOS market, but couldn't make it work, and bailed out. So there is no powerhouse behind LCOS the way Texas Instruments is behind DLP.
LCOS has none of the drawbacks to single-chip DLP (no spinning color wheel, therefore no rainbow effect). Also, LCOS is based on an LCD chip, so the chip is not a moving technology like DLP's DMD.
LCOS is a reflective technology like DLP, so it does not have the screen door effect of LCD rear projection, and has like DLP, has deeper blacks than LCD rear projection.
LCOS is not subject to burn-in like plasma.
LCOS is cheaper than flat panel LCD.
Unfortunately, because it such a good technology, has a limited supply, and is well suited for very large projection systems, LCOS is being positioned as a premium rear projection technology in very large screen sizes (60 inches and greater).
Regarding projection technology, it seems below 48", LCD rear projection is strongest. Sony has a very nice 42" LCD RP. Between 48" and 56", DLP and LCD RP compete with each other. Above 56", is divided between DLP and LCOS. I believe the DLP vendors will come out with premium 3-chip DLPs to better compete with LCOS.
50" and above RPs will all go to 1080p. 42" - 48" will stay 720p for now for cost reasons. It is more important for the vendors to produce a cheaper set than a better set at the same price point.
CRTs above 30" are history. Only Sony still makes one. So the price point of the 34" CRTs ($1,500) will have to be filled with something. The 720p 42" LCD RPs will soon drop to this point.
LCD flat panels and plasmas are declining in price at the fastest rate.
Enhanced Definition (EDTV) plasmas will be history soon. As will CRT projection systems.